In addition to the series of evening lectures for adult audiences, the society has offered its unique, hands-on exhibits to area school groups for over 30 years.
The annual 4th Grade Open House for students at the Kearsarge Regional Elementary School in New London is one well-established example. Students are divided into small groups and cycle through a series of activities designed to illustrate different facets of 19th century life in rural New England. These include bartering in the Country Store, attending class in the Schoolhouse, cooking on the hearth at the farmhouse, weaving on the barn loom, and playing games on the field. Afterwards, they gather for hearty lunch in the Phillips Barn and complete their visit with a music program.
The volunteer effort is significant, requiring the collaboration of society docents, parent chaperones, and classroom teachers. At the end of the busy day, both students and volunteers are exhausted, but rewarded. Many elementary school students cite this visit as one their favorite field trips. Best of all, they can walk back to their classrooms!