Is there a battle of fantastic, educational mini-camps in Queens?
Last week, this blog shared info on two programs at the New York Hall of Science. Now, we’re heading north and east for two additional enrichment camps.
Bayside Historical Society offers Archeology, Come and Dig It from Monday, Aug. 21, to Friday, Aug. 25.
Suggested for those entering grades 4-6, this daily, hands-on experience includes scavenger hunts, craft making, site digging, fact recording, drawing, map making, storytelling, game playing, and a special tour of the Fort Totten battery. The goal is to promote observation and critical-thinking skills while building teamwork and collaboration. And yes, there will be a simulated dig.
Prices run from $299 to $325.
Then, BHS offers Summer Enrichment Archeology: Week II from Monday, Aug. 28, to Friday, Sept. 1.
Also suggested for those entering grades 4-6, this program centers on learning about the Matinecock Tribe, Algonquin Family members who have lived in Queens and Long Island for several centuries. Campers will examine artifacts on display in BHS’s Archeology Exhibit Space and learn how the Matinecock have lived over the years.
Again, prices run from $299 to $325.
BHS is located in The Castle at 208 Totten Ave. inside Fort Totten Park. Indeed, simply spending a week at the venue (below) will be educational for the campers.
Completed in 1887, the Castle is a Gothic Revival style mansion that served as a mess hall and club for the United States Army Corps of Engineers at first. The three-story, wood-framed structure features an uncommon U-shaped layout with a central entrance between octagonal corner pavilions. It became a New York City landmark in 1974 and joined the National Register of Historic Places in 1986.
Then there’s the surrounding area, which is also historical. Completed in 1862, Fort Totten first served as a barracks, prison, and armory for Union forces during the Civil War. Soon thereafter in 1867, the roughly 13-acre Parade Grounds were established on the site, which was home to four major US Army hospitals. The New York City government completed a huge renovation of the entire complex in 2005, turning Fort Totten into a 49.5-acre public park. A baseball diamond, octagonal gazebo, public swimming pool, and soccer fields are now located on the old Parade Grounds.
Images: BHS