Loading…
Attending this event?
Welcome to the Thumb Octagon Barn Farm Museum.  Each spring we do a School Tours event for the children of our area.  We thank you for attending this year’s event.  
Simple
Expanded
Grid
By Venue
Map
Wednesday, May 15
 

8:00am EDT

Tractor Shuttle
Shuttles run all day for the convenience of the schools.  They can be used to shuttle from one location to another.  They are also a great "ride" around the grounds.  You can add a shuttle ride anytime during the day or put one into your schedule.  
Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Wednesday May 15, 2024 8:00am - 3:00pm EDT
TBA

8:30am EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Wednesday May 15, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

8:30am EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Wednesday May 15, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

8:30am EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Wednesday May 15, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

8:30am EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Wednesday May 15, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

8:30am EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Wednesday May 15, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

8:30am EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Wednesday May 15, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

8:30am EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a variety of old milking equipment, a mock milking area, a milk house where the milk was cooled and utensils were cleaned. There will be a demonstrations showing that the milking of the cows doesn’t hurt them! Cows eat corn and other grains grown/processed on the farm. Also, students will be able to see a beautifully restored milk wagon that was used to deliver milk right to people’s homes. A volunteer will be there to explain how and why these things were used. Michigan State University Extension will discuss/show  EVERYTHING MILK from the cows to you! This station is for everyone of all ages!
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Wednesday May 15, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

8:30am EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Wednesday May 15, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

8:30am EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

8:30am EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Wednesday May 15, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

8:30am EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Wednesday May 15, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

8:30am EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

8:30am EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Upper loft
  2

8:30am EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Wednesday May 15, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

8:30am EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Wednesday May 15, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

8:30am EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Wednesday May 15, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

8:30am EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

8:30am EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development. The presenters will also demonstrate what the settlers had to go through to put a roof over their heads.  Students will be given an idea of what life was like in the late 1700’s and 1800”s and will see demonstrated the tools used to cut down trees then compared to those used today. They will also see what had to be done to keep their home dry and the presenters will make hand split shakes for the roof. Then the Sawmill will be fired up so students can see/hear/smell/touch what it takes to provide the lumber used in building. The importance of working together will be highlighted and demonstrated with hands on activities.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Wednesday May 15, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

8:30am EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

8:30am EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Wednesday May 15, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

8:30am EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Wednesday May 15, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

8:30am EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

8:30am EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Wednesday May 15, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

9:00am EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

9:00am EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

9:00am EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

9:00am EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

9:00am EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

9:00am EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

9:00am EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

9:00am EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

9:00am EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

9:00am EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

9:00am EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

9:00am EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Upper loft
  2

9:00am EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

9:00am EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

9:00am EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

9:00am EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

9:00am EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

9:00am EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

9:00am EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

9:00am EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

9:00am EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

9:00am EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

9:30am EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

9:30am EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

9:30am EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

9:30am EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

9:30am EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

9:30am EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

9:30am EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

9:30am EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

9:30am EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

9:30am EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

9:30am EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

9:30am EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Upper loft
  2

9:30am EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

9:30am EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

9:30am EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

9:30am EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

9:30am EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

9:30am EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

9:30am EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

9:30am EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

9:30am EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

9:30am EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Wednesday May 15, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

10:00am EDT

Intro to the Octagon Barn
Why is this a museum, Who built the barn, house and other buildings? These and other questions will be answered during your introduction.
Speakers
avatar for Paul Deo and Rose Putnam

Paul Deo and Rose Putnam

Barn History 100 years
As a part of this year’s theme: The Barn, 100 years, students will see machinery and equipment that was used by farm animals in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in addition there is equipment that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. 2nd level... Read More →

Exhibitors
M
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn

10:00am EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

10:00am EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

10:00am EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

10:00am EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

10:00am EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

10:00am EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

10:00am EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

10:00am EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

10:00am EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

10:00am EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

10:00am EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

10:00am EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Upper loft
  2

10:00am EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

10:00am EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

10:00am EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

10:00am EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

10:00am EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

10:00am EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

10:00am EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

10:00am EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

10:00am EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

10:00am EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

10:30am EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

10:30am EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

10:30am EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

10:30am EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

10:30am EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

10:30am EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

10:30am EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

10:30am EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

10:30am EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

10:30am EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

10:30am EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

10:30am EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Upper loft
  2

10:30am EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

10:30am EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

10:30am EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

10:30am EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

10:30am EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

10:30am EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

10:30am EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

10:30am EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

10:30am EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

10:30am EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Wednesday May 15, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

11:00am EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

11:00am EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

11:00am EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

11:00am EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

11:00am EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

11:00am EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

11:00am EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

11:00am EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

11:00am EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

11:00am EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

11:00am EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

11:00am EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Upper loft
  2

11:00am EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

11:00am EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

11:00am EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

11:00am EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

11:00am EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

11:00am EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

11:00am EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

11:00am EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

11:00am EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

11:00am EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

11:00am EDT

Lunch, Outside or Inside Group 1
Choose your lunch site. Front Yard, Monru Bldg, other
Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Front yard or Monroe Bldg. Other areas
  4

11:00am EDT

Lunch, Outside or Inside Group 1
Choose your lunch site. Front Yard, Monru Bldg, other
Speakers
TA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
  4

11:30am EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

11:30am EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

11:30am EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

11:30am EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

11:30am EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

11:30am EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

11:30am EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

11:30am EDT

Souvenirs
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC

Sponsors
TO

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

11:30am EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

11:30am EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

11:30am EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

11:30am EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Upper loft
  2

11:30am EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

11:30am EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

11:30am EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

11:30am EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

11:30am EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

11:30am EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

11:30am EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

11:30am EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

11:30am EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

11:30am EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

11:30am EDT

Lunch, Outside or Inside Group 2
Choose your lunch site. Front Yard, Monru Bldg, other
Speakers
TA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Front yard or Monroe Bldg. Other areas
  4

11:30am EDT

Lunch, Outside or Inside Group 2
Choose your lunch site. Front Yard, Monru Bldg, other
Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Front yard or Monroe Bldg. Other areas
  4

11:30am EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Wednesday May 15, 2024 11:30am - 2:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

12:00pm EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

12:00pm EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

12:00pm EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

12:00pm EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

12:00pm EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

12:00pm EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

12:00pm EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

12:00pm EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

12:00pm EDT

Souvenirs
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC

Sponsors
TO

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

12:00pm EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

12:00pm EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

12:00pm EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

12:00pm EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Upper loft
  2

12:00pm EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

12:00pm EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

12:00pm EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

12:00pm EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

12:00pm EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

12:00pm EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

12:00pm EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

12:00pm EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

12:00pm EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

12:00pm EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

12:00pm EDT

Lunch, Outside or Inside Group 3
Choose your lunch site. Front Yard, Monru Bldg, other
Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Front yard or Monroe Bldg. Other areas
  4

12:00pm EDT

Lunch, Outside or Inside Group 3
Choose your lunch site. Front Yard, Monru Bldg, other
Speakers
TA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Front yard or Monroe Bldg. Other areas
  4

12:30pm EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

12:30pm EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

12:30pm EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

12:30pm EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

12:30pm EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

12:30pm EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

12:30pm EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

12:30pm EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

12:30pm EDT

Souvenirs
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC

Sponsors
TO

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

12:30pm EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

12:30pm EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

12:30pm EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

12:30pm EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Upper loft
  2

12:30pm EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

12:30pm EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

12:30pm EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

12:30pm EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

12:30pm EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

12:30pm EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

12:30pm EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

12:30pm EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

12:30pm EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

12:30pm EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

12:30pm EDT

Lunch, Outside or Inside Group 4
Choose your lunch site. Front Yard, Monru Bldg, other
Speakers
TA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Front yard or Monroe Bldg. Other areas
  4

1:00pm EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

1:00pm EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

1:00pm EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

1:00pm EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

1:00pm EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

1:00pm EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

1:00pm EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

1:00pm EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

1:00pm EDT

Souvenirs
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC

Sponsors
TO

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

1:00pm EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

1:00pm EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

1:00pm EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

1:00pm EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Upper loft
  2

1:00pm EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

1:00pm EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

1:00pm EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

1:00pm EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

1:00pm EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

1:00pm EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

1:00pm EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

1:00pm EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

1:00pm EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

1:00pm EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

1:30pm EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

1:30pm EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

1:30pm EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

1:30pm EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

1:30pm EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

1:30pm EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

1:30pm EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

1:30pm EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

1:30pm EDT

Souvenirs
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC

Sponsors
TO

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

1:30pm EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

1:30pm EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

1:30pm EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

1:30pm EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Upper loft
  2

1:30pm EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

1:30pm EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

1:30pm EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

1:30pm EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

1:30pm EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

1:30pm EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

1:30pm EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

1:30pm EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

1:30pm EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

1:30pm EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Wednesday May 15, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

2:00pm EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

2:00pm EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

2:00pm EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

2:00pm EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

2:00pm EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

2:00pm EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

2:00pm EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

2:00pm EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

2:00pm EDT

Souvenirs
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC

Sponsors
TO

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

2:00pm EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

2:00pm EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

2:00pm EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

2:00pm EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Upper loft
  2

2:00pm EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

2:00pm EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

2:00pm EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

2:00pm EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

2:00pm EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

2:00pm EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

2:00pm EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

2:00pm EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

2:00pm EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

2:00pm EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

2:30pm EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:30pm - 2:50pm EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

2:30pm EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:30pm - 2:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

2:30pm EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:30pm - 2:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

2:30pm EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:30pm - 2:50pm EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

2:30pm EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:30pm - 2:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

2:30pm EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:30pm - 2:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

2:30pm EDT

Souvenirs
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC

Sponsors
TO

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:30pm - 2:50pm EDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

2:30pm EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:30pm - 2:50pm EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

2:30pm EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:30pm - 2:50pm EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

2:30pm EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:30pm - 2:50pm EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

2:30pm EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:30pm - 2:50pm EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

2:30pm EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:30pm - 2:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

2:30pm EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:30pm - 2:50pm EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

2:30pm EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:30pm - 2:50pm EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

2:30pm EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:30pm - 2:50pm EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

2:30pm EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:30pm - 2:50pm EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

2:30pm EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:30pm - 2:50pm EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

2:30pm EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:30pm - 2:50pm EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

2:30pm EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:30pm - 2:50pm EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

2:30pm EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

2:30pm EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

2:30pm EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Upper loft
  2

2:30pm EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Wednesday May 15, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3
 
Thursday, May 16
 

8:30am EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Thursday May 16, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

8:30am EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Thursday May 16, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

8:30am EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Thursday May 16, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

8:30am EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Thursday May 16, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

8:30am EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Thursday May 16, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

8:30am EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a variety of old milking equipment, a mock milking area, a milk house where the milk was cooled and utensils were cleaned. There will be a demonstrations showing that the milking of the cows doesn’t hurt them! Cows eat corn and other grains grown/processed on the farm. Also, students will be able to see a beautifully restored milk wagon that was used to deliver milk right to people’s homes. A volunteer will be there to explain how and why these things were used. Michigan State University Extension will discuss/show  EVERYTHING MILK from the cows to you! This station is for everyone of all ages!
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Thursday May 16, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

8:30am EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Thursday May 16, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

8:30am EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Thursday May 16, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

8:30am EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Thursday May 16, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

8:30am EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Thursday May 16, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

8:30am EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Thursday May 16, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

8:30am EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Thursday May 16, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Upper loft
  2

8:30am EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Thursday May 16, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

8:30am EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Thursday May 16, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

8:30am EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Thursday May 16, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

8:30am EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Thursday May 16, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

8:30am EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development. The presenters will also demonstrate what the settlers had to go through to put a roof over their heads.  Students will be given an idea of what life was like in the late 1700’s and 1800”s and will see demonstrated the tools used to cut down trees then compared to those used today. They will also see what had to be done to keep their home dry and the presenters will make hand split shakes for the roof. Then the Sawmill will be fired up so students can see/hear/smell/touch what it takes to provide the lumber used in building. The importance of working together will be highlighted and demonstrated with hands on activities.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Thursday May 16, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

8:30am EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Thursday May 16, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

8:30am EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Thursday May 16, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

8:30am EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Thursday May 16, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

8:30am EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Thursday May 16, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

8:30am EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Thursday May 16, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

9:00am EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

9:00am EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

9:00am EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

9:00am EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

9:00am EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

9:00am EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

9:00am EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

9:00am EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

9:00am EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

9:00am EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

9:00am EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

9:00am EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Upper loft
  2

9:00am EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

9:00am EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

9:00am EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

9:00am EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

9:00am EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

9:00am EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

9:00am EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

9:00am EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

9:00am EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

9:00am EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

9:30am EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

9:30am EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

9:30am EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

9:30am EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

9:30am EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

9:30am EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

9:30am EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

9:30am EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

9:30am EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

9:30am EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

9:30am EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

9:30am EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Upper loft
  2

9:30am EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

9:30am EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

9:30am EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

9:30am EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

9:30am EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

9:30am EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

9:30am EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

9:30am EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

9:30am EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

9:30am EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Thursday May 16, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

10:00am EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

10:00am EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

10:00am EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

10:00am EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

10:00am EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

10:00am EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

10:00am EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

10:00am EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

10:00am EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

10:00am EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

10:00am EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

10:00am EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Upper loft
  2

10:00am EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

10:00am EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

10:00am EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

10:00am EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

10:00am EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

10:00am EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

10:00am EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

10:00am EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

10:00am EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

10:00am EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

10:30am EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

10:30am EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

10:30am EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

10:30am EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

10:30am EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

10:30am EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

10:30am EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

10:30am EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

10:30am EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

10:30am EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

10:30am EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

10:30am EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Upper loft
  2

10:30am EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

10:30am EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

10:30am EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

10:30am EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

10:30am EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

10:30am EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

10:30am EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

10:30am EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

10:30am EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

10:30am EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Thursday May 16, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

11:00am EDT

Lunch, Outside or Inside Group 1
Choose your lunch site. Front Yard, Monru Bldg, other
Thursday May 16, 2024 11:00am - 11:20am EDT
Front yard or Monroe Bldg. Other areas

11:00am EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

11:00am EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

11:00am EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

11:00am EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

11:00am EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

11:00am EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

11:00am EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

11:00am EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

11:00am EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

11:00am EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

11:00am EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

11:00am EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Upper loft
  2

11:00am EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

11:00am EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

11:00am EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

11:00am EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

11:00am EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

11:00am EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

11:00am EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

11:00am EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

11:00am EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

11:00am EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

11:00am EDT

Lunch, Outside or Inside Group 1
Choose your lunch site. Front Yard, Monru Bldg, other
Speakers
TA

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Front yard or Monroe Bldg. Other areas
  4

11:30am EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

11:30am EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

11:30am EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

11:30am EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

11:30am EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

11:30am EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

11:30am EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

11:30am EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

11:30am EDT

Souvenirs
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC

Sponsors
TO

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

11:30am EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

11:30am EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

11:30am EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

11:30am EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Upper loft
  2

11:30am EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

11:30am EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

11:30am EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

11:30am EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

11:30am EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

11:30am EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

11:30am EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

11:30am EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

11:30am EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

11:30am EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

11:30am EDT

Lunch, Outside or Inside Group 2
Choose your lunch site. Front Yard, Monru Bldg, other
Speakers
TA

Thursday May 16, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Front yard or Monroe Bldg. Other areas
  4

12:00pm EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

12:00pm EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

12:00pm EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

12:00pm EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

12:00pm EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

12:00pm EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

12:00pm EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

12:00pm EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

12:00pm EDT

Souvenirs
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC

Sponsors
TO

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

12:00pm EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

12:00pm EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

12:00pm EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

12:00pm EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Upper loft
  2

12:00pm EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

12:00pm EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

12:00pm EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

12:00pm EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

12:00pm EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

12:00pm EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

12:00pm EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

12:00pm EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

12:00pm EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

12:00pm EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

12:00pm EDT

Lunch, Outside or Inside Group 3
Choose your lunch site. Front Yard, Monru Bldg, other
Speakers
TA

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Front yard or Monroe Bldg. Other areas
  4

12:30pm EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

12:30pm EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

12:30pm EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

12:30pm EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

12:30pm EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

12:30pm EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

12:30pm EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

12:30pm EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

12:30pm EDT

Souvenirs
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC

Sponsors
TO

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

12:30pm EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

12:30pm EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

12:30pm EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

12:30pm EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Upper loft
  2

12:30pm EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

12:30pm EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

12:30pm EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

12:30pm EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

12:30pm EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

12:30pm EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

12:30pm EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

12:30pm EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

12:30pm EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

12:30pm EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

12:30pm EDT

Lunch, Outside or Inside Group 4
Choose your lunch site. Front Yard, Monru Bldg, other
Speakers
TA

Thursday May 16, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Front yard or Monroe Bldg. Other areas
  4

1:00pm EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

1:00pm EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

1:00pm EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

1:00pm EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

1:00pm EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

1:00pm EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

1:00pm EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

1:00pm EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

1:00pm EDT

Souvenirs
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC

Sponsors
TO

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

1:00pm EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

1:00pm EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

1:00pm EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

1:00pm EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Upper loft
  2

1:00pm EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

1:00pm EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

1:00pm EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

1:00pm EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

1:00pm EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

1:00pm EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

1:00pm EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

1:00pm EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

1:00pm EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

1:00pm EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

1:30pm EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

1:30pm EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

1:30pm EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

1:30pm EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

1:30pm EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

1:30pm EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

1:30pm EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

1:30pm EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

1:30pm EDT

Souvenirs
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC

Sponsors
TO

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

1:30pm EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

1:30pm EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

1:30pm EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

1:30pm EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Upper loft
  2

1:30pm EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

1:30pm EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

1:30pm EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

1:30pm EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

1:30pm EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

1:30pm EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

1:30pm EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

1:30pm EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

1:30pm EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

1:30pm EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Thursday May 16, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

2:00pm EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

2:00pm EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

2:00pm EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

2:00pm EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

2:00pm EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

2:00pm EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

2:00pm EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

2:00pm EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

2:00pm EDT

Souvenirs
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC

Sponsors
TO

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

2:00pm EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

2:00pm EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

2:00pm EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

2:00pm EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Upper loft
  2

2:00pm EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

2:00pm EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

2:00pm EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

2:00pm EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

2:00pm EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

2:00pm EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

2:00pm EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

2:00pm EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

2:00pm EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

2:00pm EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

2:30pm EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

2:30pm EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

2:30pm EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

2:30pm EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

2:30pm EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

2:30pm EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

2:30pm EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

2:30pm EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

2:30pm EDT

Souvenirs
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC

Sponsors
TO

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

2:30pm EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

2:30pm EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

2:30pm EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

2:30pm EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Upper loft
  2

2:30pm EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

2:30pm EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

2:30pm EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

2:30pm EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

2:30pm EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

2:30pm EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

2:30pm EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

2:30pm EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

2:30pm EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

2:30pm EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Thursday May 16, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3
 
Friday, May 17
 

8:30am EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Friday May 17, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

8:30am EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Friday May 17, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

8:30am EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Friday May 17, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

8:30am EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Friday May 17, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

8:30am EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Friday May 17, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

8:30am EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a variety of old milking equipment, a mock milking area, a milk house where the milk was cooled and utensils were cleaned. There will be a demonstrations showing that the milking of the cows doesn’t hurt them! Cows eat corn and other grains grown/processed on the farm. Also, students will be able to see a beautifully restored milk wagon that was used to deliver milk right to people’s homes. A volunteer will be there to explain how and why these things were used. Michigan State University Extension will discuss/show  EVERYTHING MILK from the cows to you! This station is for everyone of all ages!
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Friday May 17, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

8:30am EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Friday May 17, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

8:30am EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Friday May 17, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

8:30am EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Friday May 17, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

8:30am EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Friday May 17, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

8:30am EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Friday May 17, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

8:30am EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Friday May 17, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Upper loft
  2

8:30am EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Friday May 17, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

8:30am EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Friday May 17, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

8:30am EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Friday May 17, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

8:30am EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Friday May 17, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

8:30am EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development. The presenters will also demonstrate what the settlers had to go through to put a roof over their heads.  Students will be given an idea of what life was like in the late 1700’s and 1800”s and will see demonstrated the tools used to cut down trees then compared to those used today. They will also see what had to be done to keep their home dry and the presenters will make hand split shakes for the roof. Then the Sawmill will be fired up so students can see/hear/smell/touch what it takes to provide the lumber used in building. The importance of working together will be highlighted and demonstrated with hands on activities.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Friday May 17, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

8:30am EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Friday May 17, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

8:30am EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Friday May 17, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

8:30am EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Friday May 17, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

8:30am EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Friday May 17, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

8:30am EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Friday May 17, 2024 8:30am - 8:50am EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

9:00am EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Friday May 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

9:00am EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Friday May 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

9:00am EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Friday May 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

9:00am EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Friday May 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

9:00am EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Friday May 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

9:00am EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Friday May 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

9:00am EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Friday May 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

9:00am EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Friday May 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

9:00am EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Friday May 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

9:00am EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Friday May 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

9:00am EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Friday May 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

9:00am EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Friday May 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Upper loft
  2

9:00am EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Friday May 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

9:00am EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Friday May 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

9:00am EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Friday May 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

9:00am EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Friday May 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

9:00am EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Friday May 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

9:00am EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Friday May 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

9:00am EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Friday May 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

9:00am EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Friday May 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

9:00am EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Friday May 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

9:00am EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Friday May 17, 2024 9:00am - 9:20am EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

9:30am EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Friday May 17, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

9:30am EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Friday May 17, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

9:30am EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Friday May 17, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

9:30am EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Friday May 17, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

9:30am EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Friday May 17, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

9:30am EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Friday May 17, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

9:30am EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Friday May 17, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

9:30am EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Friday May 17, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

9:30am EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Friday May 17, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

9:30am EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Friday May 17, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

9:30am EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Friday May 17, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

9:30am EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Friday May 17, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Upper loft
  2

9:30am EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Friday May 17, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

9:30am EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Friday May 17, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

9:30am EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Friday May 17, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

9:30am EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Friday May 17, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

9:30am EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Friday May 17, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

9:30am EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Friday May 17, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

9:30am EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Friday May 17, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

9:30am EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Friday May 17, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

9:30am EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Friday May 17, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

9:30am EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Friday May 17, 2024 9:30am - 9:50am EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

10:00am EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Friday May 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

10:00am EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Friday May 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

10:00am EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Friday May 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

10:00am EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Friday May 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

10:00am EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Friday May 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

10:00am EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Friday May 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

10:00am EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Friday May 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

10:00am EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Friday May 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

10:00am EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Friday May 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

10:00am EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Friday May 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

10:00am EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Friday May 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

10:00am EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Friday May 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Upper loft
  2

10:00am EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Friday May 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

10:00am EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Friday May 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

10:00am EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Friday May 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

10:00am EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Friday May 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

10:00am EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Friday May 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

10:00am EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Friday May 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

10:00am EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Friday May 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

10:00am EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Friday May 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

10:00am EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Friday May 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

10:00am EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Friday May 17, 2024 10:00am - 10:20am EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

10:30am EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Friday May 17, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

10:30am EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Friday May 17, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

10:30am EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Friday May 17, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

10:30am EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Friday May 17, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

10:30am EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Friday May 17, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

10:30am EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Friday May 17, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

10:30am EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Friday May 17, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

10:30am EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Friday May 17, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

10:30am EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Friday May 17, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

10:30am EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Friday May 17, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

10:30am EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Friday May 17, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

10:30am EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Friday May 17, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Upper loft
  2

10:30am EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Friday May 17, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

10:30am EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Friday May 17, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

10:30am EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Friday May 17, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

10:30am EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Friday May 17, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

10:30am EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Friday May 17, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

10:30am EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Friday May 17, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

10:30am EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Friday May 17, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

10:30am EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Friday May 17, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

10:30am EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Friday May 17, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

10:30am EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Friday May 17, 2024 10:30am - 10:50am EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

11:00am EDT

Lunch, Outside or Inside Group 1
Choose your lunch site. Front Yard, Monru Bldg, other
Friday May 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:20am EDT
Front yard or Monroe Bldg. Other areas

11:00am EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Friday May 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

11:00am EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Friday May 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

11:00am EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Friday May 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

11:00am EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Friday May 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

11:00am EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Friday May 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

11:00am EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Friday May 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

11:00am EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Friday May 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

11:00am EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Friday May 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

11:00am EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Friday May 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

11:00am EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Friday May 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

11:00am EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Friday May 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

11:00am EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Friday May 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Upper loft
  2

11:00am EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Friday May 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

11:00am EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Friday May 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

11:00am EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Friday May 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

11:00am EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Friday May 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

11:00am EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Friday May 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

11:00am EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Friday May 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

11:00am EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Friday May 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

11:00am EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Friday May 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

11:00am EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Friday May 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

11:00am EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Friday May 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

11:00am EDT

Lunch, Outside or Inside Group 1
Choose your lunch site. Front Yard, Monru Bldg, other
Speakers
TA

Friday May 17, 2024 11:00am - 11:30am EDT
Front yard or Monroe Bldg. Other areas
  4

11:30am EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Friday May 17, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

11:30am EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Friday May 17, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

11:30am EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Friday May 17, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

11:30am EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Friday May 17, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

11:30am EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Friday May 17, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

11:30am EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Friday May 17, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

11:30am EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Friday May 17, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

11:30am EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Friday May 17, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

11:30am EDT

Souvenirs
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC

Sponsors
TO

Friday May 17, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

11:30am EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Friday May 17, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

11:30am EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Friday May 17, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

11:30am EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Friday May 17, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

11:30am EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Friday May 17, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Upper loft
  2

11:30am EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Friday May 17, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

11:30am EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Friday May 17, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

11:30am EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Friday May 17, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

11:30am EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Friday May 17, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

11:30am EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Friday May 17, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

11:30am EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Friday May 17, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

11:30am EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Friday May 17, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

11:30am EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Friday May 17, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

11:30am EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Friday May 17, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

11:30am EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Friday May 17, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

11:30am EDT

Lunch, Outside or Inside Group 2
Choose your lunch site. Front Yard, Monru Bldg, other
Speakers
TA

Friday May 17, 2024 11:30am - 11:50am EDT
Front yard or Monroe Bldg. Other areas
  4

12:00pm EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Friday May 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

12:00pm EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Friday May 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

12:00pm EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Friday May 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

12:00pm EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Friday May 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

12:00pm EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Friday May 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

12:00pm EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Friday May 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

12:00pm EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Friday May 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

12:00pm EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Friday May 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

12:00pm EDT

Souvenirs
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC

Sponsors
TO

Friday May 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

12:00pm EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Friday May 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

12:00pm EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Friday May 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

12:00pm EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Friday May 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

12:00pm EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Friday May 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Upper loft
  2

12:00pm EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Friday May 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

12:00pm EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Friday May 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

12:00pm EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Friday May 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

12:00pm EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Friday May 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

12:00pm EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Friday May 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

12:00pm EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Friday May 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

12:00pm EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Friday May 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

12:00pm EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Friday May 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

12:00pm EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Friday May 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

12:00pm EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Friday May 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

12:00pm EDT

Lunch, Outside or Inside Group 3
Choose your lunch site. Front Yard, Monru Bldg, other
Speakers
TA

Friday May 17, 2024 12:00pm - 12:20pm EDT
Front yard or Monroe Bldg. Other areas
  4

12:30pm EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Friday May 17, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

12:30pm EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Friday May 17, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

12:30pm EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Friday May 17, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

12:30pm EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Friday May 17, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

12:30pm EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Friday May 17, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

12:30pm EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Friday May 17, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

12:30pm EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Friday May 17, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

12:30pm EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Friday May 17, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

12:30pm EDT

Souvenirs
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC

Sponsors
TO

Friday May 17, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

12:30pm EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Friday May 17, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

12:30pm EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Friday May 17, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

12:30pm EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Friday May 17, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

12:30pm EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Friday May 17, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Upper loft
  2

12:30pm EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Friday May 17, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

12:30pm EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Friday May 17, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

12:30pm EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Friday May 17, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

12:30pm EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Friday May 17, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

12:30pm EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Friday May 17, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

12:30pm EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Friday May 17, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

12:30pm EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Friday May 17, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

12:30pm EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Friday May 17, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

12:30pm EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Friday May 17, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

12:30pm EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Friday May 17, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

12:30pm EDT

Lunch, Outside or Inside Group 4
Choose your lunch site. Front Yard, Monru Bldg, other
Speakers
TA

Friday May 17, 2024 12:30pm - 12:50pm EDT
Front yard or Monroe Bldg. Other areas
  4

1:00pm EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Friday May 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

1:00pm EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Friday May 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

1:00pm EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Friday May 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

1:00pm EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Friday May 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

1:00pm EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Friday May 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

1:00pm EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Friday May 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

1:00pm EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Friday May 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

1:00pm EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Friday May 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

1:00pm EDT

Souvenirs
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC

Sponsors
TO

Friday May 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

1:00pm EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Friday May 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

1:00pm EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Friday May 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

1:00pm EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Friday May 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

1:00pm EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Friday May 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Upper loft
  2

1:00pm EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Friday May 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

1:00pm EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Friday May 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

1:00pm EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Friday May 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

1:00pm EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Friday May 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

1:00pm EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Friday May 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

1:00pm EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Friday May 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

1:00pm EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Friday May 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

1:00pm EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Friday May 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

1:00pm EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Friday May 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

1:00pm EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Friday May 17, 2024 1:00pm - 1:20pm EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

1:30pm EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Friday May 17, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

1:30pm EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Friday May 17, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

1:30pm EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Friday May 17, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

1:30pm EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Friday May 17, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

1:30pm EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Friday May 17, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

1:30pm EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Friday May 17, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

1:30pm EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Friday May 17, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

1:30pm EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Friday May 17, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

1:30pm EDT

Souvenirs
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC

Sponsors
TO

Friday May 17, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

1:30pm EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Friday May 17, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

1:30pm EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Friday May 17, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

1:30pm EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Friday May 17, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

1:30pm EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Friday May 17, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Upper loft
  2

1:30pm EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Friday May 17, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

1:30pm EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Friday May 17, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

1:30pm EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Friday May 17, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

1:30pm EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Friday May 17, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

1:30pm EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Friday May 17, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

1:30pm EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Friday May 17, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

1:30pm EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Friday May 17, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

1:30pm EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Friday May 17, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

1:30pm EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Friday May 17, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

1:30pm EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Friday May 17, 2024 1:30pm - 1:50pm EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

2:00pm EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Friday May 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

2:00pm EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Friday May 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

2:00pm EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Friday May 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

2:00pm EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Friday May 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

2:00pm EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Friday May 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

2:00pm EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Friday May 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

2:00pm EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Friday May 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

2:00pm EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Friday May 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

2:00pm EDT

Souvenirs
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC

Sponsors
TO

Friday May 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

2:00pm EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Friday May 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

2:00pm EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Friday May 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

2:00pm EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Friday May 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

2:00pm EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Friday May 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Upper loft
  2

2:00pm EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Friday May 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

2:00pm EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Friday May 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

2:00pm EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Friday May 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

2:00pm EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Friday May 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

2:00pm EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Friday May 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

2:00pm EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Friday May 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

2:00pm EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Friday May 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

2:00pm EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Friday May 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

2:00pm EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Friday May 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

2:00pm EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Friday May 17, 2024 2:00pm - 2:20pm EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

2:30pm EDT

Souveniers
Take home a memory of your time at the Octagon Barn
Moderators
avatar for Joan Koch and Crew

Sponsors
TO

Friday May 17, 2024 2:30pm - 2:50pm EDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1 All Sessions

2:30pm EDT

A Century Jewel-Thumb Octagon Barn
The theme for School Tours 2024 is 'A Century Jewel - the Thumb Octagon Barn!' A ‘Century’ meaning 100 years and ‘Jewel’ meaning something extra-special! What could better describe the Thumb Octagon Barn, which was built in 1924! Here the students will learn why the Thumb Octagon Barn was built in Gagetown, Michigan, as well as, about the old tools used to make James Purdy’s “air castle in the sky,” which is how the Barn was described in his wife Cora's diaries. Students will also learn the story of how this unique Barn was saved and then restored by volunteers beginning in the early 1990’s to what volunteers are working on today. Students of all grade levels will see and hear about the 100 year old Thumb Octagon Barn while on the Barn floor, as well as, traveling up into the Loft Museum areas. The 2nd level of the Barn (the Loft) students will see - up close! - how the Barn was constructed using a variety of woods, pegs, and nails! Students will also see machinery and equipment that was used in the planting and harvesting of farm crops in the early 1900’s. In addition, there is equipment displayed that was used to convert grains and corn into feed for farm livestock. This is a MUST SEE Station for School Tours 2024!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo & Rose Putnam

Friday May 17, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

2:30pm EDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of
Speakers
avatar for Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Joann Satkowiak & Ruth Badgley

Dulcimers & Other Musical Instruments
Musicians will provide the students with an opportunity to see and learn about the history some of the musical instruments that provided entertainment in years past. Some of the instruments are: hammered dulcimer, chorded zither (autoharp), fiddle, guitar, and a bowed psaltery. The... Read More →

Artists
RB

Friday May 17, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

2:30pm EDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development
Moderators
MK

Speakers
RW

Sponsors
4A

Friday May 17, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

2:30pm EDT

Farm Animals
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies
Speakers
avatar for Thresa Schumitsch

Friday May 17, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Octagon Barn North side
  1

2:30pm EDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Students will learn the function of a grist mill in the past, as well as today. They will learn about corn and how it came to grow, with the help of proper amounts of rain, in the Thumb of Michigan. Corn was also ground for the food needs for farm animals, such as chickens, cows, etc. Each student will have an opportunity to put a cob of corn in the hand cranked corn sheller. Then the grist mill, powered by a tractor, will grind the corn to make cornmeal. Each class will be given a bag of corn meal so that their teacher or someone can make some corn bread and for the students to taste at school!
Speakers
DR

Friday May 17, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
  1

2:30pm EDT

Milking Station and MSU Extension
This display will show how farmers processed milk in the past and present. There is a display of a
Moderators
NA

Speakers
BI

Sponsors
ME

Friday May 17, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

2:30pm EDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! - will share procedures that were used in the early 1900’s to treat routine illnesses and injuries! Using available household items and things grown in the garden, different cures to health problems will be discussed and compared to how they are treated today. Students will be surprised to learn what can cure hiccups. Students will be involved in the demonstrations.
Speakers
avatar for Faith Fahrner

Faith Fahrner

Nurse/Old time Medicine
A nurse - dressed in a white nurse’s uniform and cap like nurses wore years ago! -

Friday May 17, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

2:30pm EDT

Rope Making
Rope was one of the main tools on a farm ‘one Century ago.’  Farmers used rope to corral animals, along with leading them for work. Rope was used to hold equipment in place, tow equipment to work areas, and to lift heavy weights/objects to work areas.
Speakers
avatar for Doug Monroe

Doug Monroe

Rope Making
Making a rope is much more than the threads that are weaved. Learn more about the art and craft of rope making.

Friday May 17, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Octagon Barn Complex
  1

2:30pm EDT

Souvenirs
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC

Sponsors
TO

Friday May 17, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

2:30pm EDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Tractor shuttles are farm wagons converted to carry people (25-30 at a time) being pulled by an antique farm tractor. They are functioning basically as a taxi on site and they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building, and Sugar Shack.  Just tell the volunteer driver where you need to go, climb aboard, sit back, and enjoy the ride - like a free taxi! Your group may use this service as often as you wish to get from one station to another OR just for a fun trip around the Thumb Octagon Barn site!
Moderators
RC

Speakers
avatar for Ray and Carol Caverly

Ray and Carol Caverly

Transportation
A visit to the Museum features you will have the opportunity to see old children's books (including ‘Dick & Jane’ readers), toys and other artifacts from many schools of years gone by. Our player piano will provide a live demonstrations of song played without “hands” and the... Read More →

Sponsors
TO

Friday May 17, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

2:30pm EDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Jewel (plus 10 years!) at the Thumb Octagon Barn is the 1914 apple cider press!This
Speakers
DS

Friday May 17, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

2:30pm EDT

Blacksmith Shop
See and hear the pound of the hammers on steel. Hear how the tools of the past were constructed by hand. Still used today.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.
avatar for Blacksmith

Blacksmith

Blacksmith Shop Building
Fire and Steel are used to create the tools for farm and industrial. With hammer and skill the blacksmith designs and builds the many implements used hundreds of years ago. Learn how science and math solve problems.

Friday May 17, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

2:30pm EDT

Century old Barn and Barn Loft Museum
Tools and stories of life before modern conveniences. REA house, horse buggies.
Moderators
VV

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Friday May 17, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Upper loft
  2

2:30pm EDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our
Speakers
S

Friday May 17, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch) North East Corner
  2

2:30pm EDT

Live Bee display
Students will see on display live honeybees in a protected observation hive. Discussion will take place on hives, structure of colonies, caste system, and life cycle in relation to the STEM learning system.  The purpose and importance of honeybee's pollination of crops, flowers, and trees, resulting in production of many foods we eat today, will be highlighted.  Honey production and pollination in the past compared to the many obstacles beekeepers face today, will be a key focus.  Students will learn the key role pollinators carry in farming operations, and our daily lives, both in the past and present.
Moderators
DH

Speakers
SS

Friday May 17, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

2:30pm EDT

Power House Electric -- Antique Cars
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early
Moderators
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse/Vintage Memorabilia
The Powerhouse is one of the original buildings on site filled with electrical equipment from the early 1900’s. Walking into this small, brick building is like walking back in time to see Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla. Water was an important factor in trying to produce electricity... Read More →

Sponsors
TE

Friday May 17, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

2:30pm EDT

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely furnished in the period of 1922-1942, when Jim & Cora Purdy, and their two daughters lived there. It is another 'jewel' of the Purdy estate. 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home-  is a "must see" companion to the The Thumb Octagon Barn.  This magnificent 11 room home was built in 1922, making it over 100 years old.  It includes 7 bedrooms, 3 original bathrooms, plus other rooms both upstairs and downstairs.  It is uniquely... Read More →

Artists
SA

Friday May 17, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

2:30pm EDT

Saw Mill Demonstration
There will be a discussion of Michigan History and the part that lumbering played in its development.
Moderators
CM

Speakers
avatar for Wayne Lenton

Wayne Lenton

Saw Mill
Sawmill and milling equipment.  Step back into the era when this barn was built.  The people and the machines that harvested the lumber to create homes and buildings for the new settlers. 

Friday May 17, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Saw Mill Building South East corner
  2

2:30pm EDT

Sawmill Museum and History
Tools and techniques for clearing the land for farming. Stories of how they were used.
Speakers
DA

Friday May 17, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Sawmill building, West side South side of property near back.
  2

2:30pm EDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
The Sugar Shack is a building that would be in the woods where the evaporator is used for boiling the sap - which is made up of mostly water - from maple trees into the delicious syrup that you put on your pancakes.  The history of making maple syrup beginning with Native Americans to the present will be told in a short minute video. There is also a display/discussion of equipment used through the years and now to make maple syrup. 
Speakers
avatar for Mark Battel

Mark Battel

Sugar Shack
Evaporate Maple syrup

Friday May 17, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

2:30pm EDT

Children's activity/tractors
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys
Moderators
MA

Speakers
MI

Friday May 17, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

2:30pm EDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the folks about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see musicians performing old-time country and children songs, accompanying themselves on guitars, mandolin, etc. All of the time at this station, the students and adults will be singing along, doing the ‘do-si-do’ or Hokey Pokey, including several songs about a variety of Farm Animals! The students will get a sampling of how people entertained themselves in simpler times, demonstrated by ‘old-timers’ who grew up with these songs and are eager about passing them on to the new generation. 
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
See and hear the music of yesteryear.

Artists
MA

Friday May 17, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behing house
  3

2:30pm EDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school
Moderators
SM
avatar for Jim Ware

Jim Ware

School Museum
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.

Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

School House
Step back in time to see what school was like in a 125 year old schoolhouse and hear how school differs from that of today.
S

Exhibitors
M

Friday May 17, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm EDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3
 
Filter sessions
Apply filters to sessions.
Wednesday, May 15
Thursday, May 16
Friday, May 17
Blacksmith Shop
Cider Press Building
Front yard or Monroe Bldg.
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
Main Arena
Main Floor
Main Floor Octagon Barn
Munro Building, Lunch hall
Octagon Barn
Octagon Barn Complex
Octagon Barn North side
Power house
Purdy Garage
Purdy Home
Registration Area
Saw Mill Building
Sawmill building, West side
School House & School Museum
Sugar Shack
TBA
Tent north of the barn
Upper loft
  • 1
  • 1 All Sessions
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • Popular