Disconnect from the digital world and come to Jesse Jones Park to enjoy a summer filled with history & nature programs. While these weekday programs are designed for school-aged youth & scouts, all are welcome to attend.

Youth must be accompanied by an adult.

Monday, June 2: Dreamcatchers – Indigenous people traditions have rich with stories of how the people were connected with nature and the world around them. Believing that these connections shape a person’s destiny, they would create devices that would help them interact with the natural energy of the world. Dreamcatchers are such a tool. Join us to learn about the history of dreamcatchers and make one of your very own!

Tuesday, June 3: Candlemaking - Electricity for the home wasn’t an option until the late 19th century. Settlers had to rely on the ancient art of candlemaking in order to light their homes and structures. This was a necessary part of life and something that every family needed to do unless they were wealthy enough to purchase their candles from a chandler. See what it takes to make hand-dipped candles and make one of your very own!

Wednesday, June 11: Embroidery - In Colonial America, embroidery wasn't just a craft; it held economic importance, and embroidery skills were valued for their ability to transform basic materials into beautiful and intricate pieces. Join us to learn about how this amazing art form was integrated into education and used to decorate both household items and clothing. Try your hand at some basic designs. Bring your own items to adorn, or fabric will be provided.

Thursday, June 12: Natural Dyes- Natural dyes are and have always been sourced from a variety of plants, insects and minerals to color fabrics. Join us to learn what where to find these sources, how to process them and use the colors to dye some simple fabrics. Bring your own items to dye, or fabric will be provided

Monday, June 23: Timeless Toys & Games– Video Games and Legos didn’t exist in the early 1800’s. Children quite often had to come up with fun games to play or make their own toys out of everyday items. Meet us at the Redbud Hill Homestead to play some pioneer games and make some simple toys that you can take home!

Tuesday, July 15: Blacksmith– Blacksmiths played a vital role in colonial America. They were responsible for creating and repairing a wide range of metal items, from tools and household utensils to weapons and farm equipment. Come join us for a blacksmithing demonstration in the Redbud Hill Homestead and stop by our woodshop to learn about how tools and other necessities were made or mended in the pioneer era.

Wednesday, July 16: Woodworking- Having someone able to work with wood was an essential skill for any homestead. When cabins and structures needed building, when tools needed repair, a woodworker was enlisted. Join us for a woodworking demonstration in the Redbud Hill Homestead and stop by our woodshop to learn about how tools and other necessities were made or mended in the pioneer era.

Thursday, July 17: How to Make Butter - American colonists were experts at making butter for their families. In fact, butter-making was often a chore for the children of the household. Learn how to make butter using simple ingredients just like the early Texas settlers. Then take a self-guided tour of the Redbud Hill Homestead.

Tuesday, July 22: Hoe Cakes – Hearth and fireside cooking was the main way of peparing meals in Colonial America. One staple food that many in the south have enjoyed for centuries were hoecakes.This simple meal represents a significant part of early American culinary history, reflecting the simple ingredients and cooking methods of the time. Join us in Redbud Hill Homestead by the fireside to learn about early Texas cooking methods and observe the process of making your very own hoecakes to enjoy.

Wednesday, July 23: Tea Making – Did you know that yaupon holly is the only known caffeinated plant in North America. The Akokisa people used its leaves to make tea for hundreds of years. Join us to learn about the history of tea in America and some of its extraordinary benefits. Yaupon tea will be available for sampling.

Thursday, July 24: Sustainable Mat Making – In early Texas, Native American tribes used weaving to create mats for various purposes, including seating, bedding and even as part of the home. Join us in the Akokisa Village at Redbud Hill to learn about the process of weaving these everyday items. We will be using recyclable materials to make some sustainable mats of our very own. Bring plastic grocery bags with you to make your mats, or materials will be provided.