“Week on the Farm” Summer Camp

April 4th, 2023 |

Experience Burnside Plantation in a new way with ”Week on the Farm”, our new summer camp that allows kids ages 6-12 to discover what it was like to be an early farmer, explore what farmers do today, and learn all about taking care of animals on the farm of course!  This fun week-long program at Burnside Plantation is offered in partnership with Sunset Boarding Stables, LLC. 

Campers will learn about the different animals, their roles on the farm, and have the opportunity to help with some of the chores which include taking care of and feeding the animals. This includes, exploring horse safety, grooming and learning how to ride a horse. 

Kids will also discover the importance of farming in the past and today, with hands-on activities. As well as, learn about the importance of milk and other foods from the farm and how food was prepared in the past. Campers will not only be learning about the farm but will play barnyard games, make farm-related crafts to take home and so much more! 

A parent whose child attended last year’s “Week on the Farm” says, “Summer camp was such a memorable experience for our daughter. She loved getting to spend time on a farm, especially with the animals. Both fun and educational! Staff were welcoming and attentive. Our daughter was excited to attend each day!”

“Week on the Farm” takes place at the historic Burnisde Plantation (1461 Schoenersville Rd, Bethlehem), which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This 18th-century farm spans 6.5 acres and includes sites like the Farmhouse (1748 – 1818), the Summer Kitchen 1825, the Orchard, and the Louise W. Dimmick Garden, which is a representation of an early American Kitchen Garden all cared for by volunteers. Burnside Plantation also includes one of the only remaining working High Horse-Power Wheels in the US. 

What was left of the original 500 acre Burnside Plantation was purchased in the mid 1980’s by the Lehigh County, after a group of preservationists and environmentalists led by Gertie Fox, petitioned for it in order to preserve the farm and the open space within Bethlehem.  

“Week on the Farm” will have two sessions this summer. The first being from June 26 – June 30 and the second being from July 24 – July 28. The camp runs from 9 am to 3 pm Monday-Friday, with drop off starting at 8:30 am. You need to provide your own transportation and a packed lunch each day, but breakfast and snacks will be provided. The camp is $350 for HBMS members and $400 for non-members. In order to register, email Keith Sten at ksten@historicbethlehem.org or visit historicbethlehem.org. 

Kaitlyn Schock is a student intern from Kutztown University and a contributing writer for Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites.

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