Andover at Work in the 1820s:
A Community Working Together

For the past thirty years, the Andover Historical Society has been a cornerstone of education in Andover, hosting thousands of students as part of its premier education program Andover at Work in the 1820's. Over 500 students visit the Andover Historical Society every year. This long-running program provides a rich and engaging opportunity for children to learn while meeting town and Massachusetts State curriculum standards.

Andover at Work in the 1820s immerses students in the atmosphere of early nineteenth century Andover, giving them an opportunity to become historical Andover citizens and engage in actions and occupations of the past through hands-on activities. After assuming the identity of a historic Andover residents, dressing for their roles, and reviewing a historic map of Andover, students visit several stations throughout the Historical Society that tell the story of how a community worked together in the 1820s.

While visiting the Andover Historical Society, students view life like it would have been in the 1820s at the home of Amos Blanchard, the cashier at the Andover Bank, whose home was also open to boarders from Phillips Academy. Students are lead by education volunteers wearing reproduction period costumes as they journey into the past and see how our community has changed. Students stop to grind spices for the midday meal in the kitchen and practice their best manners in the parlor. After visiting the barn to collect eggs and see what work was done throughout the seasons, students learn to barter and trade at the general store. At the print shop, students lend a hand and use a historic printing press. As an example of a community working together, students join a bucket brigade to help save a neighbor's home from fire, and they see one of the first fire engines, an 1829 Hunneman Hand Tub. During Andover at Work in the 1820s students, learn about how their town worked as a community and how each individual played an integral role in ensuring that the community thrived.

Without children, Andover at Work in the 1820s would not be possible, but without a crew of dedicated education volunteers, Andover at Work in the 1820s would not be a cornerstone program of the Andover Historical Society and a significant educational resource in Andover. Participating in Andover at Work is fun and offers a variety of benefits, one of which is an opportunity to continue learning. Andover at Work mentors and the Andover Historical Society Museum Educator offer training for new volunteers on relating more than 360 years of local history to students. As an education volunteer, you can step back in time and lead hands-on activities as well as fulfill a role as an educational leader in the community.

Andover at Work volunteers participate in the program eight to ten mornings throughout April, May, and June. With over twenty-five visiting classes, and over eighty opportunities to participate, Andover at Work in the 1820s is a flexible volunteer opportunity for people who enjoy working with children and have an interest in local history. Join us as part of our school program Andover at Work in the 1820s and support Andover community history for generations to come.

Information session will be held February 28 & March 7 at 10am.

2012 Volunteer Training Dates are April 24 & 25.