Walk

From 1884 – 1917, Mason A. Walton lived a hermit's life in Ravenswood Park. He closely observed, wrote, and drew about wildlife behaviors and published a book in 1903. As we walk in his footsteps to the site of his cabin, we'll track signs of wildlife just as Walton did. Along the way we'll share tales from his book A Hermit's Wild Friends, only available used from Amazon: A Hermit's Wild Friends

The Great House at Castle Hill isn't just a big mansion for adults to explore. It was once the summer home (and playground) of the Crane children, Florence and Cornelius. On this special, 45-minute guided treasure hunt created especially for families with children ages 4 to 8, you can sharpen your sleuthing skills as we search for treasures, both large and small, throughout the Crane family mansion.

The 3rd Annual – Run the Heater 5K starts and ends at Signing Beach in Manchester, MA.  The Heater is the traditional route that early citizens of Manchester used to warm up their horses. This 3.1 mile route celebrates this Manchester tradition, and brings you through and around the heart of Downtown Manchester.  Kids will run a separate race on the beach with medal to be given every particitipant.  Other fun activities will include facepainting, live music and a fun family atmosphere.

Come to Joppa Flats Education Center for an afternoon full of family fun! Adults and children can spend quality family time in the great outdoors finding, observing, and admiring local wildlife. Each program begins at Joppa Flats Education Center with a brief introduction to our theme via slide shows, group activities, or an in-class demonstration.

The Paine House (1694), a yellow clapboard saltbox, is a remarkable and rare example of First Period (1620-1725) architecture. Three generations of the Paine family made their home here, including Robert Paine, foreman of the Salem witch trial jury in 1692.

We will be exploring the tide-pools of Sandy Point to learn about the relationships between the water, plants, and animals that live in this habitat. We will learn how to search and handle a wide variety of intertidal animals including  snails, mussels, crabs, and other small invertebrates. We plan to play a game that shows what life in a tide-pool is like, sing some songs and get a little wet too!

Come learn how different birds build their nests and what natural materials they use. We will take a hike to look for nests and collect materials to make our own birds' nests.

Come explore with us as we examine a field and learn why crickets and grasshoppers sing, how they jump and eat, and what their similarities are. On our return, we will create and build our very own creatures from recycled materials.

Curiosity companions explore the woodlands of Bungalow Hill, Clarke's Pond, and meadows of Ocean Lawn - discovering the wonders of nature while using all your senses. Song, stories, and puppets included! This program is for young children accompanied by their favorite adult. Price includes adult and child. Pre-registration required.

What is it like to live in the woods for years? Well, from 1884 to 1917, Mason A. Walton did just that - at Ravenswood. Join us as we closely observe wildlife signs and determine animal behavior - just like he did. We will walk his footsteps to the site of his cabin and share tales from his book A Hermit's Wild Friends Or Eighteen Years In The Woods (1903) . Following the program, join us for a hot dog cookout!