Living History Extravaganza

Homestead National Historical Park will present a day of living history activities at the Homestead Heritage Center on Saturday, August 30, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The free activities, demonstrations, and living history performances will begin at 10 a.m. with members of the Blue Valley Antique Club using vintage farm equipment to disk and drill the Heritage Center's demonstration field. Throughout the day, hands-on crafts will include sewing and spinning. Participants can make button-toys and cornhusk dolls to take home.

At 11 a.m., Jolene McLaughlin will portray author Bess Streeter Aldrich. Aldrich was born in Iowa, but lived her adult life in Elmwood, Nebraska. She wrote and published 160 short stories and 13 books, many related to the experiences of homesteaders.

At 1 p.m. Bill Hayes will present the story of the Lewis & Clark Expedition through the eyes of its youngest member, George Shannon. In period clothing, Hayes will share Shannon’s experiences on the journey to the Pacific Ocean, from 1804-1806. The Lewis and Clark Expedition laid groundwork for future land policies including the Homestead Act. Much of the land explored during the mission was ultimately homesteaded.

You may also like the following events from Homestead National Historical Park:

• This Saturday, 9th August, 10:00 am, Kids in Parks Programs in Beatrice
• Next Saturday, 16th August, 10:00 am, Read with a Ranger in Beatrice

Also check out other Trips & Adventurous Activities in Beatrice, Arts events in Beatrice, Literary Art events in Beatrice.