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Schooltours 2025
Wednesday, May 14
 

8:30am PDT

2025 Theme Station: See The Changes - Then & Now
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Main Arena
On the Barn Loft, see/hear the history of the 100+ year old Thumb Octagon Barn, how it was built using the tools of old, THEN what tools would be used if built today! Nothing like seeing the Barn up-close and personal from several heights! Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) will tell the story of life in rural Michigan in the 1920’s, including 4-H, and the changes today using modern household equipment in the kitchen/house. Thumb Electric House displays the effect on life style before electricity and since. THEN & NOW farm/yard equipment will be side by side to show size differences and $$ increases. This is a ‘must see’ SOn the Barn Loft, see/hear the history of the 100+ year old Thumb Octagon Barn, how it was built using the tools of old, THEN what tools would be used if built today! Nothing like seeing the Barn up-close and personal from several heights! Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) will tell the story of life in rural Michigan in the 1920’s, including 4-H, and the changes today using modern household equipment in the kitchen/house. Thumb Electric House displays the effect on life style before electricity and since. THEN & NOW farm/yard equipment will be side by side to show size differences and $$ increases. This is a ‘must see’ Station for School Tours 2025!tation for School Tours 2025! Note: Theme Station requires walking up a flight of stairs.
Speakers
MS
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

8:30am PDT

Dairy Station & MSU Extension/Nutrition:
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Octagon Barn
The dairy display showcases how farmers have processed milk, both in the past and present. It includes a variety of old milking equipment, a mock milking area, and a milk house where milk was cooled and utensils were cleaned. There will also be hands-on demonstrations to show that milking cows doesn’t hurt them! Visitors will learn that cows eat corn and other grains grown and processed on the farm. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to see a beautifully restored milk wagon that was once used to deliver milk right to people's homes. A volunteer will be available to explain how and why these tools were used. Michigan State University Extension will share why milk is essential for good health! This station is fun for visitors of all ages!
Moderators
NA
Speakers
BI
Sponsors
ME
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

8:30am PDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Octagon Barn
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 musicians will fill the air with the beautiful sound of these instruments being played. There may be some ‘hands on’ music making (depending on the size of the group and time available), plus a-sing-a-along with the musicians!
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 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

8:30am PDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Octagon Barn
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development of chicks in the egg and see the incubated egg hatch. They will learn why water is needed in the incubation and immediate post hatching, as well as the chicken’s entire life. At the conclusion of their visit the students will see the baby chicks in the brooder - drinking and feeding. Health concerns prevent the live hatching of eggs demonstration this year.
Moderators
MK
Speakers
RW
Sponsors
4A
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

8:30am PDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
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!
Moderators
RR
BM
Speakers
DR
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill Behind the School House/Ditch
  1

8:30am PDT

Live Farm Animals
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Octagon Barn North side
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies will be there! There will be goats, horses - of all sizes - pigs, calves, rabbits, donkeys, plus!!! The students will be able to see, hear, touch (& SMELL!) a variety of live farm animals! What changes in what animals were at the Thumb Octagon Barn 1924 and 2025 - and why! - will be discussed. Students will also learn about a variety of foods/grains that are fed to the animals each day.
Moderators
LS

Lizzy Schumitsch

Live Farm Animals, Thresa Schumitsch Lizzy Schumitsch
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies will be there! There will be goats, horses - of all sizes - pigs, calves, rabbits, donkeys, plus!!! The students will be able to see, hear, touch (& SMELL!) a variety of live farm... Read More →
Speakers
TS
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Octagon Barn North side Octagon Barn
  1

8:30am PDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Purdy Garage
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! - 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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

8:30am PDT

Rope Making
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Octagon Barn Complex
Rope is made by twisting a number of fibers. Rope was one of the main tools on a farm 100+ years 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. Today rope/fiber is used in many different ways as a part of STEM activities and in today’s world. By twisting and weaving small ropes/fibers into larger, stronger ropes/fibers, more difficult/intricate work can be accomplished on the farm (and in life!)
Moderators
NP
Speakers
DM
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Octagon Barn Complex South side of Barn
  1

8:30am PDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Registration Area
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

Tractor Shuttle
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, BUT they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building... Read More →
Sponsors
TO
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

8:30am PDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Cider Press Building
A Century old Plus, Jewel at the Thumb Octagon Barn, is the 1914 apple cider press! Apples will be squeezed and fresh apple cider will flow. You will help place apples on the conveyor.
Speakers
DS

David & Shiela Babcock

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Plus, Jewel at the Thumb Octagon Barn, is the 1914 apple cider press!  Apples will be squeezed, and fresh apple cider will flow.  You will help place apples on the conveyor. 
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

8:30am PDT

Blacksmith Shop
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Blacksmith Shop
While visiting the blacksmith shop, students will see how metal is transformed into helpful and decorative items. The blacksmith will also demonstrate how the metal is heated in a forge - fueled by coal - until it turns orange in color. Then the metal will be hammered out into useful shapes for making agricultural tools - that would be used by farmers - shelf brackets, candle holders, hooks, and/or other tools that were used in earlier days - before electricity.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
While visiting the blacksmith shop, students will see how metal is transformed into helpful and decorative items. The blacksmith will also demonstrate how the metal is heated in a forge - fueled by coal - until it turns orange in color.  Then the metal will be hammered out into useful... Read More →
B
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

8:30am PDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our food from the farm field to our dinner tables, plus to feed the farm animals. Students will have the opportunity to view working equipment, including mills -which clean and size the grain - vertical conveyors - called grain legs - and scales. They will be able to see and touch examples of different grains. The equipment is vintage, but the basic processes are still those used in today’s modern grain elevators. Examples of familiar food products found in our kitchen will be displayed to help students understand that the grains processed are found in many of the foods we eat and enjoy today.
Speakers
S
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
  2

8:30am PDT

Live Bee display
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Octagon Barn
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

Steve Steeley

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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

8:30am PDT

Powerhouse: Vintage Cars & Garage: Vintage Memorabilia:
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Power house
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 then. Students will be able to see peat bricks that were used to run a steam engine and a generator used to bring electricity to the house and barn of Mr. & Mrs. Purdy. Students will also have the ability to see what wiring would have looked like. Forget the Romex wires used today, in 1930 we had a system known as the knob and tube.
Moderators
RH

Ron Hoffman

Grounds maintenance
Ron is the main contact person for help around the barn.  
Speakers
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse: Vintage Cars & Garage: 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 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

8:30am PDT

Purdy House Tour
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home - is a "must see" companion to 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. Expect to see many “Then & Now” changes when you visit! 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home - is a "must see" companion to 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... Read More →
Artists
SA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

8:30am PDT

Saw Mill Demonstration and Museum
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Saw Mill Building
This Station tour begins at the Sawmill Museum. The students will see actual photos from the by-gone era, plus many of the actual tools that were used in the forests. Shown/discussed also will be how the logs were transported to the sawmill. There will be a short discussion of Michigan history and the part that lumbering, including major fires, played in development of rural Michigan. Following this year’s theme, ‘Then & Now - See The Changes!’ tools used to cut down trees 100+ years ago will be shown/compared to those used today. A demonstration of crosscut saws, broadaxes, vs. chain saws will be given. At the sawmill, presenters will demonstrate what the settlers had to go through ‘to put a roof over their heads.’ The students will also see the presenters make hand split shakes (shingles) for the roof. The importance of working together will be highlighted and demonstrated with hands-on activities. Lastly the huge sawmill will be fired up so the students can see/hear/smell/touch what it takes to provide the lumber used in building then and today. No matter what age - 5 to 55 - this presentation is educational - involving STEM learning and rural Michigan history - very interesting, & a GREAT Station to visit!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo

Paul Deo

Saw Mill and Museum Demonstration
This Station tour begins at the Sawmill Museum. The students will see actual photos from the by-gone era, plus many of the actual tools that were used in the forests. Shown/discussed also will be how the logs were transported to the sawmill. There will be a short discussion of Michigan... Read More →
Speakers
WL
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Saw Mill Building
  2

8:30am PDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Sugar Shack
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/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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

8:30am PDT

Children's activity/tractors
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Tent north of the barn
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys from the past. Some of the activities will be related to this years theme. The activities are fun and related activities used long ago, like checkers, stilts to walk on, ring toss, blowing bubbles, and a water tank filled with corn to play in! NO electronics here ‘Then or Now!’ The vintage tractors are also in this station ‘to sit on/drive.’ Farm tractors are part of our Grandparents’ heritage. Get the feel by sitting on these old tractors - making believe that your driving - for a few minutes; feel how hard the seats were for your Grandparents/Great-Grandparents to sit on from morning to night!
Moderators
MA

Mary Ann Cox

This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys from the past. Some of the activities will be related to this years theme. The activities are fun and related activities used long ago, like checkers, stilts to walk on, ring... Read More →
Speakers
MI
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

8:30am PDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the children about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see 7 musicians accompanying themselves on guitar, harmonica, mandolin, dulcimer, violin, bass guitar and banjo.  They will be performing old-time folk, children’s songs and songs about farm animals.  At this station, we encourage the students and adults to sing along, doing the ‘do-si-do” and “hokey pokey”, amongst others.  Sing and dance to the music of yesteryear.
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Goal: Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the children about some of the music played in earlier days. Musicians will be playing mandolins, violins, and other string instruments, as they sing. They will also show/explain how each instrument is played and why they were... Read More →
Artists
MA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behind house
  3

8:30am PDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
School House & School Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s schools/classrooms, we hope to take them back in time and perhaps, more fully appreciate their advantages today. The Museum displays photos and memorabilia from One Room Country Schools in the Thumb and the State of Michigan. There is even a player piano that demonstrates songs played without hands!
Moderators
BP

Brian Peters

School House and School House Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

One Room Country School House & School House Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s... Read More →
S
Wednesday May 14, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am PDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

9:00am PDT

2026 Theme Station: See The Changes - Then & Now
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Main Arena
On the Barn Loft, see/hear the history of the 100+ year old Thumb Octagon Barn, how it was built using the tools of old, THEN what tools would be used if built today! Nothing like seeing the Barn up-close and personal from several heights! Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) will tell the story of life in rural Michigan in the 1920’s, including 4-H, and the changes today using modern household equipment in the kitchen/house. Thumb Electric House displays the effect on life style before electricity and since. THEN & NOW farm/yard equipment will be side by side to show size differences and $$ increases. This is a ‘must see’ SOn the Barn Loft, see/hear the history of the 100+ year old Thumb Octagon Barn, how it was built using the tools of old, THEN what tools would be used if built today! Nothing like seeing the Barn up-close and personal from several heights! Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) will tell the story of life in rural Michigan in the 1920’s, including 4-H, and the changes today using modern household equipment in the kitchen/house. Thumb Electric House displays the effect on life style before electricity and since. THEN & NOW farm/yard equipment will be side by side to show size differences and $$ increases. This is a ‘must see’ Station for School Tours 2025!tation for School Tours 2025! Note: Theme Station requires walking up a flight of stairs.
Speakers
MS
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

9:00am PDT

Dairy Station & MSU Extension/Nutrition:
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Octagon Barn
The dairy display showcases how farmers have processed milk, both in the past and present. It includes a variety of old milking equipment, a mock milking area, and a milk house where milk was cooled and utensils were cleaned. There will also be hands-on demonstrations to show that milking cows doesn’t hurt them! Visitors will learn that cows eat corn and other grains grown and processed on the farm. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to see a beautifully restored milk wagon that was once used to deliver milk right to people's homes. A volunteer will be available to explain how and why these tools were used. Michigan State University Extension will share why milk is essential for good health! This station is fun for visitors of all ages!
Moderators
NA
Speakers
BI
Sponsors
ME
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

9:00am PDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Octagon Barn
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 musicians will fill the air with the beautiful sound of these instruments being played. There may be some ‘hands on’ music making (depending on the size of the group and time available), plus a-sing-a-along with the musicians!
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 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

9:00am PDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Octagon Barn
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development of chicks in the egg and see the incubated egg hatch. They will learn why water is needed in the incubation and immediate post hatching, as well as the chicken’s entire life. At the conclusion of their visit the students will see the baby chicks in the brooder - drinking and feeding. Health concerns prevent the live hatching of eggs demonstration this year.
Moderators
MK
Speakers
RW
Sponsors
4A
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

9:00am PDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
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!
Moderators
RR
BM
Speakers
DR
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill Behind the School House/Ditch
  1

9:00am PDT

Live Farm Animals
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Octagon Barn North side
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies will be there! There will be goats, horses - of all sizes - pigs, calves, rabbits, donkeys, plus!!! The students will be able to see, hear, touch (& SMELL!) a variety of live farm animals! What changes in what animals were at the Thumb Octagon Barn 1924 and 2025 - and why! - will be discussed. Students will also learn about a variety of foods/grains that are fed to the animals each day.
Moderators
LS

Lizzy Schumitsch

Live Farm Animals, Thresa Schumitsch Lizzy Schumitsch
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies will be there! There will be goats, horses - of all sizes - pigs, calves, rabbits, donkeys, plus!!! The students will be able to see, hear, touch (& SMELL!) a variety of live farm... Read More →
Speakers
TS
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Octagon Barn North side Octagon Barn
  1

9:00am PDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Purdy Garage
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! - 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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

9:00am PDT

Rope Making
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Octagon Barn Complex
Rope is made by twisting a number of fibers. Rope was one of the main tools on a farm 100+ years 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. Today rope/fiber is used in many different ways as a part of STEM activities and in today’s world. By twisting and weaving small ropes/fibers into larger, stronger ropes/fibers, more difficult/intricate work can be accomplished on the farm (and in life!)
Moderators
NP
Speakers
DM
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Octagon Barn Complex South side of Barn
  1

9:00am PDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Registration Area
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

Tractor Shuttle
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, BUT they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building... Read More →
Sponsors
TO
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

9:00am PDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Cider Press Building
A Century old Plus, Jewel at the Thumb Octagon Barn, is the 1914 apple cider press! Apples will be squeezed and fresh apple cider will flow. You will help place apples on the conveyor.
Speakers
DS

David & Shiela Babcock

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Plus, Jewel at the Thumb Octagon Barn, is the 1914 apple cider press!  Apples will be squeezed, and fresh apple cider will flow.  You will help place apples on the conveyor. 
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

9:00am PDT

Blacksmith Shop
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Blacksmith Shop
While visiting the blacksmith shop, students will see how metal is transformed into helpful and decorative items. The blacksmith will also demonstrate how the metal is heated in a forge - fueled by coal - until it turns orange in color. Then the metal will be hammered out into useful shapes for making agricultural tools - that would be used by farmers - shelf brackets, candle holders, hooks, and/or other tools that were used in earlier days - before electricity.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
While visiting the blacksmith shop, students will see how metal is transformed into helpful and decorative items. The blacksmith will also demonstrate how the metal is heated in a forge - fueled by coal - until it turns orange in color.  Then the metal will be hammered out into useful... Read More →
B
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

9:00am PDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our food from the farm field to our dinner tables, plus to feed the farm animals. Students will have the opportunity to view working equipment, including mills -which clean and size the grain - vertical conveyors - called grain legs - and scales. They will be able to see and touch examples of different grains. The equipment is vintage, but the basic processes are still those used in today’s modern grain elevators. Examples of familiar food products found in our kitchen will be displayed to help students understand that the grains processed are found in many of the foods we eat and enjoy today.
Speakers
S
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
  2

9:00am PDT

Live Bee display
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Octagon Barn
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

Steve Steeley

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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

9:00am PDT

Powerhouse: Vintage Cars & Garage: Vintage Memorabilia:
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Power house
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 then. Students will be able to see peat bricks that were used to run a steam engine and a generator used to bring electricity to the house and barn of Mr. & Mrs. Purdy. Students will also have the ability to see what wiring would have looked like. Forget the Romex wires used today, in 1930 we had a system known as the knob and tube.
Moderators
RH

Ron Hoffman

Grounds maintenance
Ron is the main contact person for help around the barn.  
Speakers
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse: Vintage Cars & Garage: 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 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

9:00am PDT

Purdy House Tour
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home - is a "must see" companion to 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. Expect to see many “Then & Now” changes when you visit! 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home - is a "must see" companion to 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... Read More →
Artists
SA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

9:00am PDT

Saw Mill Demonstration and Museum
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Saw Mill Building
This Station tour begins at the Sawmill Museum. The students will see actual photos from the by-gone era, plus many of the actual tools that were used in the forests. Shown/discussed also will be how the logs were transported to the sawmill. There will be a short discussion of Michigan history and the part that lumbering, including major fires, played in development of rural Michigan. Following this year’s theme, ‘Then & Now - See The Changes!’ tools used to cut down trees 100+ years ago will be shown/compared to those used today. A demonstration of crosscut saws, broadaxes, vs. chain saws will be given. At the sawmill, presenters will demonstrate what the settlers had to go through ‘to put a roof over their heads.’ The students will also see the presenters make hand split shakes (shingles) for the roof. The importance of working together will be highlighted and demonstrated with hands-on activities. Lastly the huge sawmill will be fired up so the students can see/hear/smell/touch what it takes to provide the lumber used in building then and today. No matter what age - 5 to 55 - this presentation is educational - involving STEM learning and rural Michigan history - very interesting, & a GREAT Station to visit!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo

Paul Deo

Saw Mill and Museum Demonstration
This Station tour begins at the Sawmill Museum. The students will see actual photos from the by-gone era, plus many of the actual tools that were used in the forests. Shown/discussed also will be how the logs were transported to the sawmill. There will be a short discussion of Michigan... Read More →
Speakers
WL
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Saw Mill Building
  2

9:00am PDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Sugar Shack
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/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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

9:00am PDT

Children's activity/tractors
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Tent north of the barn
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys from the past. Some of the activities will be related to this years theme. The activities are fun and related activities used long ago, like checkers, stilts to walk on, ring toss, blowing bubbles, and a water tank filled with corn to play in! NO electronics here ‘Then or Now!’ The vintage tractors are also in this station ‘to sit on/drive.’ Farm tractors are part of our Grandparents’ heritage. Get the feel by sitting on these old tractors - making believe that your driving - for a few minutes; feel how hard the seats were for your Grandparents/Great-Grandparents to sit on from morning to night!
Moderators
MA

Mary Ann Cox

This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys from the past. Some of the activities will be related to this years theme. The activities are fun and related activities used long ago, like checkers, stilts to walk on, ring... Read More →
Speakers
MI
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

9:00am PDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the children about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see 7 musicians accompanying themselves on guitar, harmonica, mandolin, dulcimer, violin, bass guitar and banjo.  They will be performing old-time folk, children’s songs and songs about farm animals.  At this station, we encourage the students and adults to sing along, doing the ‘do-si-do” and “hokey pokey”, amongst others.  Sing and dance to the music of yesteryear.
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Goal: Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the children about some of the music played in earlier days. Musicians will be playing mandolins, violins, and other string instruments, as they sing. They will also show/explain how each instrument is played and why they were... Read More →
Artists
MA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behind house
  3

9:00am PDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
School House & School Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s schools/classrooms, we hope to take them back in time and perhaps, more fully appreciate their advantages today. The Museum displays photos and memorabilia from One Room Country Schools in the Thumb and the State of Michigan. There is even a player piano that demonstrates songs played without hands!
Moderators
BP

Brian Peters

School House and School House Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

One Room Country School House & School House Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s... Read More →
S
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:20am PDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

9:00am PDT

This is a Session Name
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:30am PDT
Marriott Hotel
This is a session description
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:30am PDT
Marriott Hotel 229 W 43RD St New York, NY 10036 USA
  Type 1, Subtype1

9:00am PDT

This is a Session Name
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:30am PDT
Room 8 (Marriott Hotel)
This is a session description.
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:00am - 9:30am PDT
Room 8 (Marriott Hotel) 18-20 Lisle St London, WC2H 7BA, United Kingdom
  Type 1, Subtype1, Subtype2 |   Type2, Subtype1, Subtype2

9:30am PDT

2027 Theme Station: See The Changes - Then & Now
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Main Arena
On the Barn Loft, see/hear the history of the 100+ year old Thumb Octagon Barn, how it was built using the tools of old, THEN what tools would be used if built today! Nothing like seeing the Barn up-close and personal from several heights! Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) will tell the story of life in rural Michigan in the 1920’s, including 4-H, and the changes today using modern household equipment in the kitchen/house. Thumb Electric House displays the effect on life style before electricity and since. THEN & NOW farm/yard equipment will be side by side to show size differences and $$ increases. This is a ‘must see’ SOn the Barn Loft, see/hear the history of the 100+ year old Thumb Octagon Barn, how it was built using the tools of old, THEN what tools would be used if built today! Nothing like seeing the Barn up-close and personal from several heights! Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) will tell the story of life in rural Michigan in the 1920’s, including 4-H, and the changes today using modern household equipment in the kitchen/house. Thumb Electric House displays the effect on life style before electricity and since. THEN & NOW farm/yard equipment will be side by side to show size differences and $$ increases. This is a ‘must see’ Station for School Tours 2025!tation for School Tours 2025! Note: Theme Station requires walking up a flight of stairs.
Speakers
MS
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

9:30am PDT

Dairy Station & MSU Extension/Nutrition:
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Octagon Barn
The dairy display showcases how farmers have processed milk, both in the past and present. It includes a variety of old milking equipment, a mock milking area, and a milk house where milk was cooled and utensils were cleaned. There will also be hands-on demonstrations to show that milking cows doesn’t hurt them! Visitors will learn that cows eat corn and other grains grown and processed on the farm. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to see a beautifully restored milk wagon that was once used to deliver milk right to people's homes. A volunteer will be available to explain how and why these tools were used. Michigan State University Extension will share why milk is essential for good health! This station is fun for visitors of all ages!
Moderators
NA
Speakers
BI
Sponsors
ME
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

9:30am PDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Octagon Barn
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 musicians will fill the air with the beautiful sound of these instruments being played. There may be some ‘hands on’ music making (depending on the size of the group and time available), plus a-sing-a-along with the musicians!
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 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

9:30am PDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Octagon Barn
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development of chicks in the egg and see the incubated egg hatch. They will learn why water is needed in the incubation and immediate post hatching, as well as the chicken’s entire life. At the conclusion of their visit the students will see the baby chicks in the brooder - drinking and feeding. Health concerns prevent the live hatching of eggs demonstration this year.
Moderators
MK
Speakers
RW
Sponsors
4A
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

9:30am PDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
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!
Moderators
RR
BM
Speakers
DR
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill Behind the School House/Ditch
  1

9:30am PDT

Live Farm Animals
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Octagon Barn North side
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies will be there! There will be goats, horses - of all sizes - pigs, calves, rabbits, donkeys, plus!!! The students will be able to see, hear, touch (& SMELL!) a variety of live farm animals! What changes in what animals were at the Thumb Octagon Barn 1924 and 2025 - and why! - will be discussed. Students will also learn about a variety of foods/grains that are fed to the animals each day.
Moderators
LS

Lizzy Schumitsch

Live Farm Animals, Thresa Schumitsch Lizzy Schumitsch
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies will be there! There will be goats, horses - of all sizes - pigs, calves, rabbits, donkeys, plus!!! The students will be able to see, hear, touch (& SMELL!) a variety of live farm... Read More →
Speakers
TS
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Octagon Barn North side Octagon Barn
  1

9:30am PDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Purdy Garage
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! - 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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

9:30am PDT

Rope Making
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Octagon Barn Complex
Rope is made by twisting a number of fibers. Rope was one of the main tools on a farm 100+ years 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. Today rope/fiber is used in many different ways as a part of STEM activities and in today’s world. By twisting and weaving small ropes/fibers into larger, stronger ropes/fibers, more difficult/intricate work can be accomplished on the farm (and in life!)
Moderators
NP
Speakers
DM
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Octagon Barn Complex South side of Barn
  1

9:30am PDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Registration Area
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

Tractor Shuttle
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, BUT they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building... Read More →
Sponsors
TO
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

9:30am PDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Cider Press Building
A Century old Plus, Jewel at the Thumb Octagon Barn, is the 1914 apple cider press! Apples will be squeezed and fresh apple cider will flow. You will help place apples on the conveyor.
Speakers
DS

David & Shiela Babcock

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Plus, Jewel at the Thumb Octagon Barn, is the 1914 apple cider press!  Apples will be squeezed, and fresh apple cider will flow.  You will help place apples on the conveyor. 
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

9:30am PDT

Blacksmith Shop
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Blacksmith Shop
While visiting the blacksmith shop, students will see how metal is transformed into helpful and decorative items. The blacksmith will also demonstrate how the metal is heated in a forge - fueled by coal - until it turns orange in color. Then the metal will be hammered out into useful shapes for making agricultural tools - that would be used by farmers - shelf brackets, candle holders, hooks, and/or other tools that were used in earlier days - before electricity.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
While visiting the blacksmith shop, students will see how metal is transformed into helpful and decorative items. The blacksmith will also demonstrate how the metal is heated in a forge - fueled by coal - until it turns orange in color.  Then the metal will be hammered out into useful... Read More →
B
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

9:30am PDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our food from the farm field to our dinner tables, plus to feed the farm animals. Students will have the opportunity to view working equipment, including mills -which clean and size the grain - vertical conveyors - called grain legs - and scales. They will be able to see and touch examples of different grains. The equipment is vintage, but the basic processes are still those used in today’s modern grain elevators. Examples of familiar food products found in our kitchen will be displayed to help students understand that the grains processed are found in many of the foods we eat and enjoy today.
Speakers
S
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
  2

9:30am PDT

Live Bee display
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Octagon Barn
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

Steve Steeley

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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

9:30am PDT

Powerhouse: Vintage Cars & Garage: Vintage Memorabilia:
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Power house
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 then. Students will be able to see peat bricks that were used to run a steam engine and a generator used to bring electricity to the house and barn of Mr. & Mrs. Purdy. Students will also have the ability to see what wiring would have looked like. Forget the Romex wires used today, in 1930 we had a system known as the knob and tube.
Moderators
RH

Ron Hoffman

Grounds maintenance
Ron is the main contact person for help around the barn.  
Speakers
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse: Vintage Cars & Garage: 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 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

9:30am PDT

Purdy House Tour
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home - is a "must see" companion to 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. Expect to see many “Then & Now” changes when you visit! 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home - is a "must see" companion to 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... Read More →
Artists
SA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

9:30am PDT

Saw Mill Demonstration and Museum
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Saw Mill Building
This Station tour begins at the Sawmill Museum. The students will see actual photos from the by-gone era, plus many of the actual tools that were used in the forests. Shown/discussed also will be how the logs were transported to the sawmill. There will be a short discussion of Michigan history and the part that lumbering, including major fires, played in development of rural Michigan. Following this year’s theme, ‘Then & Now - See The Changes!’ tools used to cut down trees 100+ years ago will be shown/compared to those used today. A demonstration of crosscut saws, broadaxes, vs. chain saws will be given. At the sawmill, presenters will demonstrate what the settlers had to go through ‘to put a roof over their heads.’ The students will also see the presenters make hand split shakes (shingles) for the roof. The importance of working together will be highlighted and demonstrated with hands-on activities. Lastly the huge sawmill will be fired up so the students can see/hear/smell/touch what it takes to provide the lumber used in building then and today. No matter what age - 5 to 55 - this presentation is educational - involving STEM learning and rural Michigan history - very interesting, & a GREAT Station to visit!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo

Paul Deo

Saw Mill and Museum Demonstration
This Station tour begins at the Sawmill Museum. The students will see actual photos from the by-gone era, plus many of the actual tools that were used in the forests. Shown/discussed also will be how the logs were transported to the sawmill. There will be a short discussion of Michigan... Read More →
Speakers
WL
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Saw Mill Building
  2

9:30am PDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Sugar Shack
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/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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

9:30am PDT

Children's activity/tractors
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Tent north of the barn
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys from the past. Some of the activities will be related to this years theme. The activities are fun and related activities used long ago, like checkers, stilts to walk on, ring toss, blowing bubbles, and a water tank filled with corn to play in! NO electronics here ‘Then or Now!’ The vintage tractors are also in this station ‘to sit on/drive.’ Farm tractors are part of our Grandparents’ heritage. Get the feel by sitting on these old tractors - making believe that your driving - for a few minutes; feel how hard the seats were for your Grandparents/Great-Grandparents to sit on from morning to night!
Moderators
MA

Mary Ann Cox

This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys from the past. Some of the activities will be related to this years theme. The activities are fun and related activities used long ago, like checkers, stilts to walk on, ring... Read More →
Speakers
MI
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

9:30am PDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the children about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see 7 musicians accompanying themselves on guitar, harmonica, mandolin, dulcimer, violin, bass guitar and banjo.  They will be performing old-time folk, children’s songs and songs about farm animals.  At this station, we encourage the students and adults to sing along, doing the ‘do-si-do” and “hokey pokey”, amongst others.  Sing and dance to the music of yesteryear.
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Goal: Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the children about some of the music played in earlier days. Musicians will be playing mandolins, violins, and other string instruments, as they sing. They will also show/explain how each instrument is played and why they were... Read More →
Artists
MA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behind house
  3

9:30am PDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
School House & School Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s schools/classrooms, we hope to take them back in time and perhaps, more fully appreciate their advantages today. The Museum displays photos and memorabilia from One Room Country Schools in the Thumb and the State of Michigan. There is even a player piano that demonstrates songs played without hands!
Moderators
BP

Brian Peters

School House and School House Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

One Room Country School House & School House Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s... Read More →
S
Wednesday May 14, 2025 9:30am - 9:50am PDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

10:00am PDT

2028 Theme Station: See The Changes - Then & Now
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Main Arena
On the Barn Loft, see/hear the history of the 100+ year old Thumb Octagon Barn, how it was built using the tools of old, THEN what tools would be used if built today! Nothing like seeing the Barn up-close and personal from several heights! Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) will tell the story of life in rural Michigan in the 1920’s, including 4-H, and the changes today using modern household equipment in the kitchen/house. Thumb Electric House displays the effect on life style before electricity and since. THEN & NOW farm/yard equipment will be side by side to show size differences and $$ increases. This is a ‘must see’ SOn the Barn Loft, see/hear the history of the 100+ year old Thumb Octagon Barn, how it was built using the tools of old, THEN what tools would be used if built today! Nothing like seeing the Barn up-close and personal from several heights! Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) will tell the story of life in rural Michigan in the 1920’s, including 4-H, and the changes today using modern household equipment in the kitchen/house. Thumb Electric House displays the effect on life style before electricity and since. THEN & NOW farm/yard equipment will be side by side to show size differences and $$ increases. This is a ‘must see’ Station for School Tours 2025!tation for School Tours 2025! Note: Theme Station requires walking up a flight of stairs.
Speakers
MS
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

10:00am PDT

Dairy Station & MSU Extension/Nutrition:
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Octagon Barn
The dairy display showcases how farmers have processed milk, both in the past and present. It includes a variety of old milking equipment, a mock milking area, and a milk house where milk was cooled and utensils were cleaned. There will also be hands-on demonstrations to show that milking cows doesn’t hurt them! Visitors will learn that cows eat corn and other grains grown and processed on the farm. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to see a beautifully restored milk wagon that was once used to deliver milk right to people's homes. A volunteer will be available to explain how and why these tools were used. Michigan State University Extension will share why milk is essential for good health! This station is fun for visitors of all ages!
Moderators
NA
Speakers
BI
Sponsors
ME
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

10:00am PDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Octagon Barn
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 musicians will fill the air with the beautiful sound of these instruments being played. There may be some ‘hands on’ music making (depending on the size of the group and time available), plus a-sing-a-along with the musicians!
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 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

10:00am PDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Octagon Barn
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development of chicks in the egg and see the incubated egg hatch. They will learn why water is needed in the incubation and immediate post hatching, as well as the chicken’s entire life. At the conclusion of their visit the students will see the baby chicks in the brooder - drinking and feeding. Health concerns prevent the live hatching of eggs demonstration this year.
Moderators
MK
Speakers
RW
Sponsors
4A
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

10:00am PDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
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!
Moderators
RR
BM
Speakers
DR
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill Behind the School House/Ditch
  1

10:00am PDT

Live Farm Animals
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Octagon Barn North side
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies will be there! There will be goats, horses - of all sizes - pigs, calves, rabbits, donkeys, plus!!! The students will be able to see, hear, touch (& SMELL!) a variety of live farm animals! What changes in what animals were at the Thumb Octagon Barn 1924 and 2025 - and why! - will be discussed. Students will also learn about a variety of foods/grains that are fed to the animals each day.
Moderators
LS

Lizzy Schumitsch

Live Farm Animals, Thresa Schumitsch Lizzy Schumitsch
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies will be there! There will be goats, horses - of all sizes - pigs, calves, rabbits, donkeys, plus!!! The students will be able to see, hear, touch (& SMELL!) a variety of live farm... Read More →
Speakers
TS
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Octagon Barn North side Octagon Barn
  1

10:00am PDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Purdy Garage
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! - 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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

10:00am PDT

Rope Making
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Octagon Barn Complex
Rope is made by twisting a number of fibers. Rope was one of the main tools on a farm 100+ years 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. Today rope/fiber is used in many different ways as a part of STEM activities and in today’s world. By twisting and weaving small ropes/fibers into larger, stronger ropes/fibers, more difficult/intricate work can be accomplished on the farm (and in life!)
Moderators
NP
Speakers
DM
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Octagon Barn Complex South side of Barn
  1

10:00am PDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Registration Area
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

Tractor Shuttle
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, BUT they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building... Read More →
Sponsors
TO
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

10:00am PDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Cider Press Building
A Century old Plus, Jewel at the Thumb Octagon Barn, is the 1914 apple cider press! Apples will be squeezed and fresh apple cider will flow. You will help place apples on the conveyor.
Speakers
DS

David & Shiela Babcock

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Plus, Jewel at the Thumb Octagon Barn, is the 1914 apple cider press!  Apples will be squeezed, and fresh apple cider will flow.  You will help place apples on the conveyor. 
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

10:00am PDT

Blacksmith Shop
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Blacksmith Shop
While visiting the blacksmith shop, students will see how metal is transformed into helpful and decorative items. The blacksmith will also demonstrate how the metal is heated in a forge - fueled by coal - until it turns orange in color. Then the metal will be hammered out into useful shapes for making agricultural tools - that would be used by farmers - shelf brackets, candle holders, hooks, and/or other tools that were used in earlier days - before electricity.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
While visiting the blacksmith shop, students will see how metal is transformed into helpful and decorative items. The blacksmith will also demonstrate how the metal is heated in a forge - fueled by coal - until it turns orange in color.  Then the metal will be hammered out into useful... Read More →
B
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

10:00am PDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our food from the farm field to our dinner tables, plus to feed the farm animals. Students will have the opportunity to view working equipment, including mills -which clean and size the grain - vertical conveyors - called grain legs - and scales. They will be able to see and touch examples of different grains. The equipment is vintage, but the basic processes are still those used in today’s modern grain elevators. Examples of familiar food products found in our kitchen will be displayed to help students understand that the grains processed are found in many of the foods we eat and enjoy today.
Speakers
S
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
  2

10:00am PDT

Live Bee display
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Octagon Barn
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

Steve Steeley

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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

10:00am PDT

Powerhouse: Vintage Cars & Garage: Vintage Memorabilia:
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Power house
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 then. Students will be able to see peat bricks that were used to run a steam engine and a generator used to bring electricity to the house and barn of Mr. & Mrs. Purdy. Students will also have the ability to see what wiring would have looked like. Forget the Romex wires used today, in 1930 we had a system known as the knob and tube.
Moderators
RH

Ron Hoffman

Grounds maintenance
Ron is the main contact person for help around the barn.  
Speakers
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse: Vintage Cars & Garage: 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 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

10:00am PDT

Purdy House Tour
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home - is a "must see" companion to 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. Expect to see many “Then & Now” changes when you visit! 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home - is a "must see" companion to 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... Read More →
Artists
SA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

10:00am PDT

Saw Mill Demonstration and Museum
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Saw Mill Building
This Station tour begins at the Sawmill Museum. The students will see actual photos from the by-gone era, plus many of the actual tools that were used in the forests. Shown/discussed also will be how the logs were transported to the sawmill. There will be a short discussion of Michigan history and the part that lumbering, including major fires, played in development of rural Michigan. Following this year’s theme, ‘Then & Now - See The Changes!’ tools used to cut down trees 100+ years ago will be shown/compared to those used today. A demonstration of crosscut saws, broadaxes, vs. chain saws will be given. At the sawmill, presenters will demonstrate what the settlers had to go through ‘to put a roof over their heads.’ The students will also see the presenters make hand split shakes (shingles) for the roof. The importance of working together will be highlighted and demonstrated with hands-on activities. Lastly the huge sawmill will be fired up so the students can see/hear/smell/touch what it takes to provide the lumber used in building then and today. No matter what age - 5 to 55 - this presentation is educational - involving STEM learning and rural Michigan history - very interesting, & a GREAT Station to visit!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo

Paul Deo

Saw Mill and Museum Demonstration
This Station tour begins at the Sawmill Museum. The students will see actual photos from the by-gone era, plus many of the actual tools that were used in the forests. Shown/discussed also will be how the logs were transported to the sawmill. There will be a short discussion of Michigan... Read More →
Speakers
WL
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Saw Mill Building
  2

10:00am PDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Sugar Shack
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/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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

10:00am PDT

Children's activity/tractors
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Tent north of the barn
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys from the past. Some of the activities will be related to this years theme. The activities are fun and related activities used long ago, like checkers, stilts to walk on, ring toss, blowing bubbles, and a water tank filled with corn to play in! NO electronics here ‘Then or Now!’ The vintage tractors are also in this station ‘to sit on/drive.’ Farm tractors are part of our Grandparents’ heritage. Get the feel by sitting on these old tractors - making believe that your driving - for a few minutes; feel how hard the seats were for your Grandparents/Great-Grandparents to sit on from morning to night!
Moderators
MA

Mary Ann Cox

This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys from the past. Some of the activities will be related to this years theme. The activities are fun and related activities used long ago, like checkers, stilts to walk on, ring... Read More →
Speakers
MI
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

10:00am PDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the children about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see 7 musicians accompanying themselves on guitar, harmonica, mandolin, dulcimer, violin, bass guitar and banjo.  They will be performing old-time folk, children’s songs and songs about farm animals.  At this station, we encourage the students and adults to sing along, doing the ‘do-si-do” and “hokey pokey”, amongst others.  Sing and dance to the music of yesteryear.
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Goal: Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the children about some of the music played in earlier days. Musicians will be playing mandolins, violins, and other string instruments, as they sing. They will also show/explain how each instrument is played and why they were... Read More →
Artists
MA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behind house
  3

10:00am PDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
School House & School Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s schools/classrooms, we hope to take them back in time and perhaps, more fully appreciate their advantages today. The Museum displays photos and memorabilia from One Room Country Schools in the Thumb and the State of Michigan. There is even a player piano that demonstrates songs played without hands!
Moderators
BP

Brian Peters

School House and School House Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

One Room Country School House & School House Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s... Read More →
S
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:00am - 10:20am PDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

10:30am PDT

2029 Theme Station: See The Changes - Then & Now
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Main Arena
On the Barn Loft, see/hear the history of the 100+ year old Thumb Octagon Barn, how it was built using the tools of old, THEN what tools would be used if built today! Nothing like seeing the Barn up-close and personal from several heights! Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) will tell the story of life in rural Michigan in the 1920’s, including 4-H, and the changes today using modern household equipment in the kitchen/house. Thumb Electric House displays the effect on life style before electricity and since. THEN & NOW farm/yard equipment will be side by side to show size differences and $$ increases. This is a ‘must see’ SOn the Barn Loft, see/hear the history of the 100+ year old Thumb Octagon Barn, how it was built using the tools of old, THEN what tools would be used if built today! Nothing like seeing the Barn up-close and personal from several heights! Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) will tell the story of life in rural Michigan in the 1920’s, including 4-H, and the changes today using modern household equipment in the kitchen/house. Thumb Electric House displays the effect on life style before electricity and since. THEN & NOW farm/yard equipment will be side by side to show size differences and $$ increases. This is a ‘must see’ Station for School Tours 2025!tation for School Tours 2025! Note: Theme Station requires walking up a flight of stairs.
Speakers
MS
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

10:30am PDT

Dairy Station & MSU Extension/Nutrition:
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Octagon Barn
The dairy display showcases how farmers have processed milk, both in the past and present. It includes a variety of old milking equipment, a mock milking area, and a milk house where milk was cooled and utensils were cleaned. There will also be hands-on demonstrations to show that milking cows doesn’t hurt them! Visitors will learn that cows eat corn and other grains grown and processed on the farm. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to see a beautifully restored milk wagon that was once used to deliver milk right to people's homes. A volunteer will be available to explain how and why these tools were used. Michigan State University Extension will share why milk is essential for good health! This station is fun for visitors of all ages!
Moderators
NA
Speakers
BI
Sponsors
ME
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

10:30am PDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Octagon Barn
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 musicians will fill the air with the beautiful sound of these instruments being played. There may be some ‘hands on’ music making (depending on the size of the group and time available), plus a-sing-a-along with the musicians!
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 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

10:30am PDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Octagon Barn
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development of chicks in the egg and see the incubated egg hatch. They will learn why water is needed in the incubation and immediate post hatching, as well as the chicken’s entire life. At the conclusion of their visit the students will see the baby chicks in the brooder - drinking and feeding. Health concerns prevent the live hatching of eggs demonstration this year.
Moderators
MK
Speakers
RW
Sponsors
4A
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

10:30am PDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
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!
Moderators
RR
BM
Speakers
DR
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill Behind the School House/Ditch
  1

10:30am PDT

Live Farm Animals
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Octagon Barn North side
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies will be there! There will be goats, horses - of all sizes - pigs, calves, rabbits, donkeys, plus!!! The students will be able to see, hear, touch (& SMELL!) a variety of live farm animals! What changes in what animals were at the Thumb Octagon Barn 1924 and 2025 - and why! - will be discussed. Students will also learn about a variety of foods/grains that are fed to the animals each day.
Moderators
LS

Lizzy Schumitsch

Live Farm Animals, Thresa Schumitsch Lizzy Schumitsch
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies will be there! There will be goats, horses - of all sizes - pigs, calves, rabbits, donkeys, plus!!! The students will be able to see, hear, touch (& SMELL!) a variety of live farm... Read More →
Speakers
TS
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Octagon Barn North side Octagon Barn
  1

10:30am PDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Purdy Garage
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! - 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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

10:30am PDT

Rope Making
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Octagon Barn Complex
Rope is made by twisting a number of fibers. Rope was one of the main tools on a farm 100+ years 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. Today rope/fiber is used in many different ways as a part of STEM activities and in today’s world. By twisting and weaving small ropes/fibers into larger, stronger ropes/fibers, more difficult/intricate work can be accomplished on the farm (and in life!)
Moderators
NP
Speakers
DM
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Octagon Barn Complex South side of Barn
  1

10:30am PDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Registration Area
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

Tractor Shuttle
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, BUT they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building... Read More →
Sponsors
TO
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

10:30am PDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Cider Press Building
A Century old Plus, Jewel at the Thumb Octagon Barn, is the 1914 apple cider press! Apples will be squeezed and fresh apple cider will flow. You will help place apples on the conveyor.
Speakers
DS

David & Shiela Babcock

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Plus, Jewel at the Thumb Octagon Barn, is the 1914 apple cider press!  Apples will be squeezed, and fresh apple cider will flow.  You will help place apples on the conveyor. 
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

10:30am PDT

Blacksmith Shop
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Blacksmith Shop
While visiting the blacksmith shop, students will see how metal is transformed into helpful and decorative items. The blacksmith will also demonstrate how the metal is heated in a forge - fueled by coal - until it turns orange in color. Then the metal will be hammered out into useful shapes for making agricultural tools - that would be used by farmers - shelf brackets, candle holders, hooks, and/or other tools that were used in earlier days - before electricity.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
While visiting the blacksmith shop, students will see how metal is transformed into helpful and decorative items. The blacksmith will also demonstrate how the metal is heated in a forge - fueled by coal - until it turns orange in color.  Then the metal will be hammered out into useful... Read More →
B
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

10:30am PDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our food from the farm field to our dinner tables, plus to feed the farm animals. Students will have the opportunity to view working equipment, including mills -which clean and size the grain - vertical conveyors - called grain legs - and scales. They will be able to see and touch examples of different grains. The equipment is vintage, but the basic processes are still those used in today’s modern grain elevators. Examples of familiar food products found in our kitchen will be displayed to help students understand that the grains processed are found in many of the foods we eat and enjoy today.
Speakers
S
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
  2

10:30am PDT

Live Bee display
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Octagon Barn
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

Steve Steeley

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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

10:30am PDT

Powerhouse: Vintage Cars & Garage: Vintage Memorabilia:
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Power house
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 then. Students will be able to see peat bricks that were used to run a steam engine and a generator used to bring electricity to the house and barn of Mr. & Mrs. Purdy. Students will also have the ability to see what wiring would have looked like. Forget the Romex wires used today, in 1930 we had a system known as the knob and tube.
Moderators
RH

Ron Hoffman

Grounds maintenance
Ron is the main contact person for help around the barn.  
Speakers
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse: Vintage Cars & Garage: 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 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

10:30am PDT

Purdy House Tour
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home - is a "must see" companion to 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. Expect to see many “Then & Now” changes when you visit! 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home - is a "must see" companion to 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... Read More →
Artists
SA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

10:30am PDT

Saw Mill Demonstration and Museum
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Saw Mill Building
This Station tour begins at the Sawmill Museum. The students will see actual photos from the by-gone era, plus many of the actual tools that were used in the forests. Shown/discussed also will be how the logs were transported to the sawmill. There will be a short discussion of Michigan history and the part that lumbering, including major fires, played in development of rural Michigan. Following this year’s theme, ‘Then & Now - See The Changes!’ tools used to cut down trees 100+ years ago will be shown/compared to those used today. A demonstration of crosscut saws, broadaxes, vs. chain saws will be given. At the sawmill, presenters will demonstrate what the settlers had to go through ‘to put a roof over their heads.’ The students will also see the presenters make hand split shakes (shingles) for the roof. The importance of working together will be highlighted and demonstrated with hands-on activities. Lastly the huge sawmill will be fired up so the students can see/hear/smell/touch what it takes to provide the lumber used in building then and today. No matter what age - 5 to 55 - this presentation is educational - involving STEM learning and rural Michigan history - very interesting, & a GREAT Station to visit!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo

Paul Deo

Saw Mill and Museum Demonstration
This Station tour begins at the Sawmill Museum. The students will see actual photos from the by-gone era, plus many of the actual tools that were used in the forests. Shown/discussed also will be how the logs were transported to the sawmill. There will be a short discussion of Michigan... Read More →
Speakers
WL
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Saw Mill Building
  2

10:30am PDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Sugar Shack
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/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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

10:30am PDT

Children's activity/tractors
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Tent north of the barn
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys from the past. Some of the activities will be related to this years theme. The activities are fun and related activities used long ago, like checkers, stilts to walk on, ring toss, blowing bubbles, and a water tank filled with corn to play in! NO electronics here ‘Then or Now!’ The vintage tractors are also in this station ‘to sit on/drive.’ Farm tractors are part of our Grandparents’ heritage. Get the feel by sitting on these old tractors - making believe that your driving - for a few minutes; feel how hard the seats were for your Grandparents/Great-Grandparents to sit on from morning to night!
Moderators
MA

Mary Ann Cox

This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys from the past. Some of the activities will be related to this years theme. The activities are fun and related activities used long ago, like checkers, stilts to walk on, ring... Read More →
Speakers
MI
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

10:30am PDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the children about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see 7 musicians accompanying themselves on guitar, harmonica, mandolin, dulcimer, violin, bass guitar and banjo.  They will be performing old-time folk, children’s songs and songs about farm animals.  At this station, we encourage the students and adults to sing along, doing the ‘do-si-do” and “hokey pokey”, amongst others.  Sing and dance to the music of yesteryear.
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Goal: Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the children about some of the music played in earlier days. Musicians will be playing mandolins, violins, and other string instruments, as they sing. They will also show/explain how each instrument is played and why they were... Read More →
Artists
MA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behind house
  3

10:30am PDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
School House & School Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s schools/classrooms, we hope to take them back in time and perhaps, more fully appreciate their advantages today. The Museum displays photos and memorabilia from One Room Country Schools in the Thumb and the State of Michigan. There is even a player piano that demonstrates songs played without hands!
Moderators
BP

Brian Peters

School House and School House Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

One Room Country School House & School House Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s... Read More →
S
Wednesday May 14, 2025 10:30am - 10:50am PDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

11:00am PDT

2030 Theme Station: See The Changes - Then & Now
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Main Arena
On the Barn Loft, see/hear the history of the 100+ year old Thumb Octagon Barn, how it was built using the tools of old, THEN what tools would be used if built today! Nothing like seeing the Barn up-close and personal from several heights! Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) will tell the story of life in rural Michigan in the 1920’s, including 4-H, and the changes today using modern household equipment in the kitchen/house. Thumb Electric House displays the effect on life style before electricity and since. THEN & NOW farm/yard equipment will be side by side to show size differences and $$ increases. This is a ‘must see’ SOn the Barn Loft, see/hear the history of the 100+ year old Thumb Octagon Barn, how it was built using the tools of old, THEN what tools would be used if built today! Nothing like seeing the Barn up-close and personal from several heights! Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) will tell the story of life in rural Michigan in the 1920’s, including 4-H, and the changes today using modern household equipment in the kitchen/house. Thumb Electric House displays the effect on life style before electricity and since. THEN & NOW farm/yard equipment will be side by side to show size differences and $$ increases. This is a ‘must see’ Station for School Tours 2025!tation for School Tours 2025! Note: Theme Station requires walking up a flight of stairs.
Speakers
MS
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

11:00am PDT

Dairy Station & MSU Extension/Nutrition:
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Octagon Barn
The dairy display showcases how farmers have processed milk, both in the past and present. It includes a variety of old milking equipment, a mock milking area, and a milk house where milk was cooled and utensils were cleaned. There will also be hands-on demonstrations to show that milking cows doesn’t hurt them! Visitors will learn that cows eat corn and other grains grown and processed on the farm. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to see a beautifully restored milk wagon that was once used to deliver milk right to people's homes. A volunteer will be available to explain how and why these tools were used. Michigan State University Extension will share why milk is essential for good health! This station is fun for visitors of all ages!
Moderators
NA
Speakers
BI
Sponsors
ME
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

11:00am PDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Octagon Barn
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 musicians will fill the air with the beautiful sound of these instruments being played. There may be some ‘hands on’ music making (depending on the size of the group and time available), plus a-sing-a-along with the musicians!
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 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

11:00am PDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching)
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Octagon Barn
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development of chicks in the egg and see the incubated egg hatch. They will learn why water is needed in the incubation and immediate post hatching, as well as the chicken’s entire life. At the conclusion of their visit the students will see the baby chicks in the brooder - drinking and feeding. Health concerns prevent the live hatching of eggs demonstration this year.
Moderators
MK
Speakers
RW
Sponsors
4A
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

11:00am PDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
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!
Moderators
RR
BM
Speakers
DR
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill Behind the School House/Ditch
  1

11:00am PDT

Live Farm Animals
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Octagon Barn North side
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies will be there! There will be goats, horses - of all sizes - pigs, calves, rabbits, donkeys, plus!!! The students will be able to see, hear, touch (& SMELL!) a variety of live farm animals! What changes in what animals were at the Thumb Octagon Barn 1924 and 2025 - and why! - will be discussed. Students will also learn about a variety of foods/grains that are fed to the animals each day.
Moderators
LS

Lizzy Schumitsch

Live Farm Animals, Thresa Schumitsch Lizzy Schumitsch
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies will be there! There will be goats, horses - of all sizes - pigs, calves, rabbits, donkeys, plus!!! The students will be able to see, hear, touch (& SMELL!) a variety of live farm... Read More →
Speakers
TS
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Octagon Barn North side Octagon Barn
  1

11:00am PDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Purdy Garage
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! - 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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

11:00am PDT

Rope Making
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Octagon Barn Complex
Rope is made by twisting a number of fibers. Rope was one of the main tools on a farm 100+ years 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. Today rope/fiber is used in many different ways as a part of STEM activities and in today’s world. By twisting and weaving small ropes/fibers into larger, stronger ropes/fibers, more difficult/intricate work can be accomplished on the farm (and in life!)
Moderators
NP
Speakers
DM
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Octagon Barn Complex South side of Barn
  1

11:00am PDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Registration Area
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

Tractor Shuttle
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, BUT they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building... Read More →
Sponsors
TO
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

11:00am PDT

Apple Cider pressing operation
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Cider Press Building
A Century old Plus, Jewel at the Thumb Octagon Barn, is the 1914 apple cider press! Apples will be squeezed and fresh apple cider will flow. You will help place apples on the conveyor.
Speakers
DS

David & Shiela Babcock

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Plus, Jewel at the Thumb Octagon Barn, is the 1914 apple cider press!  Apples will be squeezed, and fresh apple cider will flow.  You will help place apples on the conveyor. 
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

11:00am PDT

Blacksmith Shop
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Blacksmith Shop
While visiting the blacksmith shop, students will see how metal is transformed into helpful and decorative items. The blacksmith will also demonstrate how the metal is heated in a forge - fueled by coal - until it turns orange in color. Then the metal will be hammered out into useful shapes for making agricultural tools - that would be used by farmers - shelf brackets, candle holders, hooks, and/or other tools that were used in earlier days - before electricity.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
While visiting the blacksmith shop, students will see how metal is transformed into helpful and decorative items. The blacksmith will also demonstrate how the metal is heated in a forge - fueled by coal - until it turns orange in color.  Then the metal will be hammered out into useful... Read More →
B
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

11:00am PDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our food from the farm field to our dinner tables, plus to feed the farm animals. Students will have the opportunity to view working equipment, including mills -which clean and size the grain - vertical conveyors - called grain legs - and scales. They will be able to see and touch examples of different grains. The equipment is vintage, but the basic processes are still those used in today’s modern grain elevators. Examples of familiar food products found in our kitchen will be displayed to help students understand that the grains processed are found in many of the foods we eat and enjoy today.
Speakers
S
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
  2

11:00am PDT

Live Bee display
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Octagon Barn
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

Steve Steeley

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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

11:00am PDT

Powerhouse: Vintage Cars & Garage: Vintage Memorabilia:
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Power house
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 then. Students will be able to see peat bricks that were used to run a steam engine and a generator used to bring electricity to the house and barn of Mr. & Mrs. Purdy. Students will also have the ability to see what wiring would have looked like. Forget the Romex wires used today, in 1930 we had a system known as the knob and tube.
Moderators
RH

Ron Hoffman

Grounds maintenance
Ron is the main contact person for help around the barn.  
Speakers
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse: Vintage Cars & Garage: 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 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

11:00am PDT

Purdy House Tour
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home - is a "must see" companion to 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. Expect to see many “Then & Now” changes when you visit! 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home - is a "must see" companion to 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... Read More →
Artists
SA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

11:00am PDT

Saw Mill Demonstration and Museum
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Saw Mill Building
This Station tour begins at the Sawmill Museum. The students will see actual photos from the by-gone era, plus many of the actual tools that were used in the forests. Shown/discussed also will be how the logs were transported to the sawmill. There will be a short discussion of Michigan history and the part that lumbering, including major fires, played in development of rural Michigan. Following this year’s theme, ‘Then & Now - See The Changes!’ tools used to cut down trees 100+ years ago will be shown/compared to those used today. A demonstration of crosscut saws, broadaxes, vs. chain saws will be given. At the sawmill, presenters will demonstrate what the settlers had to go through ‘to put a roof over their heads.’ The students will also see the presenters make hand split shakes (shingles) for the roof. The importance of working together will be highlighted and demonstrated with hands-on activities. Lastly the huge sawmill will be fired up so the students can see/hear/smell/touch what it takes to provide the lumber used in building then and today. No matter what age - 5 to 55 - this presentation is educational - involving STEM learning and rural Michigan history - very interesting, & a GREAT Station to visit!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo

Paul Deo

Saw Mill and Museum Demonstration
This Station tour begins at the Sawmill Museum. The students will see actual photos from the by-gone era, plus many of the actual tools that were used in the forests. Shown/discussed also will be how the logs were transported to the sawmill. There will be a short discussion of Michigan... Read More →
Speakers
WL
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Saw Mill Building
  2

11:00am PDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Sugar Shack
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/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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

11:00am PDT

Children's activity/tractors
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Tent north of the barn
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys from the past. Some of the activities will be related to this years theme. The activities are fun and related activities used long ago, like checkers, stilts to walk on, ring toss, blowing bubbles, and a water tank filled with corn to play in! NO electronics here ‘Then or Now!’ The vintage tractors are also in this station ‘to sit on/drive.’ Farm tractors are part of our Grandparents’ heritage. Get the feel by sitting on these old tractors - making believe that your driving - for a few minutes; feel how hard the seats were for your Grandparents/Great-Grandparents to sit on from morning to night!
Moderators
MA

Mary Ann Cox

This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys from the past. Some of the activities will be related to this years theme. The activities are fun and related activities used long ago, like checkers, stilts to walk on, ring... Read More →
Speakers
MI
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

11:00am PDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the children about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see 7 musicians accompanying themselves on guitar, harmonica, mandolin, dulcimer, violin, bass guitar and banjo.  They will be performing old-time folk, children’s songs and songs about farm animals.  At this station, we encourage the students and adults to sing along, doing the ‘do-si-do” and “hokey pokey”, amongst others.  Sing and dance to the music of yesteryear.
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Goal: Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the children about some of the music played in earlier days. Musicians will be playing mandolins, violins, and other string instruments, as they sing. They will also show/explain how each instrument is played and why they were... Read More →
Artists
MA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behind house
  3

11:00am PDT

One Room Country School House and Museum
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
School House & School Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s schools/classrooms, we hope to take them back in time and perhaps, more fully appreciate their advantages today. The Museum displays photos and memorabilia from One Room Country Schools in the Thumb and the State of Michigan. There is even a player piano that demonstrates songs played without hands!
Moderators
BP

Brian Peters

School House and School House Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

One Room Country School House & School House Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s... Read More →
S
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

11:00am PDT

Lunch, Outside or Inside Group 1
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Front yard or Monroe Bldg.
Choose your lunch site. Front Yard, Monru Bldg, other
Speakers
TA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Front yard or Monroe Bldg. Other areas
  4

11:00am PDT

Lunch, Outside or Inside Group 1 LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Front yard or Monroe Bldg.
Choose your lunch site. Front Yard, Monru Bldg, other
Speakers
TA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:00am - 11:30am PDT
Front yard or Monroe Bldg. Other areas
  4

11:30am PDT

2031 Theme Station: See The Changes - Then & Now LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Main Arena
On the Barn Loft, see/hear the history of the 100+ year old Thumb Octagon Barn, how it was built using the tools of old, THEN what tools would be used if built today! Nothing like seeing the Barn up-close and personal from several heights! Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) will tell the story of life in rural Michigan in the 1920’s, including 4-H, and the changes today using modern household equipment in the kitchen/house. Thumb Electric House displays the effect on life style before electricity and since. THEN & NOW farm/yard equipment will be side by side to show size differences and $$ increases. This is a ‘must see’ SOn the Barn Loft, see/hear the history of the 100+ year old Thumb Octagon Barn, how it was built using the tools of old, THEN what tools would be used if built today! Nothing like seeing the Barn up-close and personal from several heights! Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) will tell the story of life in rural Michigan in the 1920’s, including 4-H, and the changes today using modern household equipment in the kitchen/house. Thumb Electric House displays the effect on life style before electricity and since. THEN & NOW farm/yard equipment will be side by side to show size differences and $$ increases. This is a ‘must see’ Station for School Tours 2025!tation for School Tours 2025! Note: Theme Station requires walking up a flight of stairs.
Speakers
MS
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

11:30am PDT

Dairy Station & MSU Extension/Nutrition: LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Octagon Barn
The dairy display showcases how farmers have processed milk, both in the past and present. It includes a variety of old milking equipment, a mock milking area, and a milk house where milk was cooled and utensils were cleaned. There will also be hands-on demonstrations to show that milking cows doesn’t hurt them! Visitors will learn that cows eat corn and other grains grown and processed on the farm. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to see a beautifully restored milk wagon that was once used to deliver milk right to people's homes. A volunteer will be available to explain how and why these tools were used. Michigan State University Extension will share why milk is essential for good health! This station is fun for visitors of all ages!
Moderators
NA
Speakers
BI
Sponsors
ME
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

11:30am PDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching) LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Octagon Barn
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development of chicks in the egg and see the incubated egg hatch. They will learn why water is needed in the incubation and immediate post hatching, as well as the chicken’s entire life. At the conclusion of their visit the students will see the baby chicks in the brooder - drinking and feeding. Health concerns prevent the live hatching of eggs demonstration this year.
Moderators
MK
Speakers
RW
Sponsors
4A
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

11:30am PDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
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!
Moderators
RR
BM
Speakers
DR
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill Behind the School House/Ditch
  1

11:30am PDT

Live Farm Animals LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Octagon Barn North side
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies will be there! There will be goats, horses - of all sizes - pigs, calves, rabbits, donkeys, plus!!! The students will be able to see, hear, touch (& SMELL!) a variety of live farm animals! What changes in what animals were at the Thumb Octagon Barn 1924 and 2025 - and why! - will be discussed. Students will also learn about a variety of foods/grains that are fed to the animals each day.
Moderators
LS

Lizzy Schumitsch

Live Farm Animals, Thresa Schumitsch Lizzy Schumitsch
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies will be there! There will be goats, horses - of all sizes - pigs, calves, rabbits, donkeys, plus!!! The students will be able to see, hear, touch (& SMELL!) a variety of live farm... Read More →
Speakers
TS
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Octagon Barn North side Octagon Barn
  1

11:30am PDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Purdy Garage
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! - 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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

11:30am PDT

Rope Making LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Octagon Barn Complex
Rope is made by twisting a number of fibers. Rope was one of the main tools on a farm 100+ years 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. Today rope/fiber is used in many different ways as a part of STEM activities and in today’s world. By twisting and weaving small ropes/fibers into larger, stronger ropes/fibers, more difficult/intricate work can be accomplished on the farm (and in life!)
Moderators
NP
Speakers
DM
Sponsors
R
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Octagon Barn Complex South side of Barn
  1

11:30am PDT

Souvenirs LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Main Floor
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC
Sponsors
TO
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

11:30am PDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Registration Area
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

Tractor Shuttle
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, BUT they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building... Read More →
Sponsors
TO
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

11:30am PDT

Apple Cider pressing operation LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Cider Press Building
A Century old Plus, Jewel at the Thumb Octagon Barn, is the 1914 apple cider press! Apples will be squeezed and fresh apple cider will flow. You will help place apples on the conveyor.
Speakers
DS

David & Shiela Babcock

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Plus, Jewel at the Thumb Octagon Barn, is the 1914 apple cider press!  Apples will be squeezed, and fresh apple cider will flow.  You will help place apples on the conveyor. 
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

11:30am PDT

Blacksmith Shop LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Blacksmith Shop
While visiting the blacksmith shop, students will see how metal is transformed into helpful and decorative items. The blacksmith will also demonstrate how the metal is heated in a forge - fueled by coal - until it turns orange in color. Then the metal will be hammered out into useful shapes for making agricultural tools - that would be used by farmers - shelf brackets, candle holders, hooks, and/or other tools that were used in earlier days - before electricity.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
While visiting the blacksmith shop, students will see how metal is transformed into helpful and decorative items. The blacksmith will also demonstrate how the metal is heated in a forge - fueled by coal - until it turns orange in color.  Then the metal will be hammered out into useful... Read More →
B
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

11:30am PDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our food from the farm field to our dinner tables, plus to feed the farm animals. Students will have the opportunity to view working equipment, including mills -which clean and size the grain - vertical conveyors - called grain legs - and scales. They will be able to see and touch examples of different grains. The equipment is vintage, but the basic processes are still those used in today’s modern grain elevators. Examples of familiar food products found in our kitchen will be displayed to help students understand that the grains processed are found in many of the foods we eat and enjoy today.
Speakers
S
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
  2

11:30am PDT

Live Bee display LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Octagon Barn
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

Steve Steeley

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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

11:30am PDT

Powerhouse: Vintage Cars & Garage: Vintage Memorabilia: LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Power house
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 then. Students will be able to see peat bricks that were used to run a steam engine and a generator used to bring electricity to the house and barn of Mr. & Mrs. Purdy. Students will also have the ability to see what wiring would have looked like. Forget the Romex wires used today, in 1930 we had a system known as the knob and tube.
Moderators
RH

Ron Hoffman

Grounds maintenance
Ron is the main contact person for help around the barn.  
Speakers
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse: Vintage Cars & Garage: 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 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

11:30am PDT

Purdy House Tour LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home - is a "must see" companion to 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. Expect to see many “Then & Now” changes when you visit! 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home - is a "must see" companion to 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... Read More →
Artists
SA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

11:30am PDT

Saw Mill Demonstration and Museum LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Saw Mill Building
This Station tour begins at the Sawmill Museum. The students will see actual photos from the by-gone era, plus many of the actual tools that were used in the forests. Shown/discussed also will be how the logs were transported to the sawmill. There will be a short discussion of Michigan history and the part that lumbering, including major fires, played in development of rural Michigan. Following this year’s theme, ‘Then & Now - See The Changes!’ tools used to cut down trees 100+ years ago will be shown/compared to those used today. A demonstration of crosscut saws, broadaxes, vs. chain saws will be given. At the sawmill, presenters will demonstrate what the settlers had to go through ‘to put a roof over their heads.’ The students will also see the presenters make hand split shakes (shingles) for the roof. The importance of working together will be highlighted and demonstrated with hands-on activities. Lastly the huge sawmill will be fired up so the students can see/hear/smell/touch what it takes to provide the lumber used in building then and today. No matter what age - 5 to 55 - this presentation is educational - involving STEM learning and rural Michigan history - very interesting, & a GREAT Station to visit!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo

Paul Deo

Saw Mill and Museum Demonstration
This Station tour begins at the Sawmill Museum. The students will see actual photos from the by-gone era, plus many of the actual tools that were used in the forests. Shown/discussed also will be how the logs were transported to the sawmill. There will be a short discussion of Michigan... Read More →
Speakers
WL
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Saw Mill Building
  2

11:30am PDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Sugar Shack
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/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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

11:30am PDT

Children's activity/tractors LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Tent north of the barn
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys from the past. Some of the activities will be related to this years theme. The activities are fun and related activities used long ago, like checkers, stilts to walk on, ring toss, blowing bubbles, and a water tank filled with corn to play in! NO electronics here ‘Then or Now!’ The vintage tractors are also in this station ‘to sit on/drive.’ Farm tractors are part of our Grandparents’ heritage. Get the feel by sitting on these old tractors - making believe that your driving - for a few minutes; feel how hard the seats were for your Grandparents/Great-Grandparents to sit on from morning to night!
Moderators
MA

Mary Ann Cox

This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys from the past. Some of the activities will be related to this years theme. The activities are fun and related activities used long ago, like checkers, stilts to walk on, ring... Read More →
Speakers
MI
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

11:30am PDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the children about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see 7 musicians accompanying themselves on guitar, harmonica, mandolin, dulcimer, violin, bass guitar and banjo.  They will be performing old-time folk, children’s songs and songs about farm animals.  At this station, we encourage the students and adults to sing along, doing the ‘do-si-do” and “hokey pokey”, amongst others.  Sing and dance to the music of yesteryear.
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Goal: Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the children about some of the music played in earlier days. Musicians will be playing mandolins, violins, and other string instruments, as they sing. They will also show/explain how each instrument is played and why they were... Read More →
Artists
MA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behind house
  3

11:30am PDT

One Room Country School House and Museum LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
School House & School Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s schools/classrooms, we hope to take them back in time and perhaps, more fully appreciate their advantages today. The Museum displays photos and memorabilia from One Room Country Schools in the Thumb and the State of Michigan. There is even a player piano that demonstrates songs played without hands!
Moderators
BP

Brian Peters

School House and School House Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

One Room Country School House & School House Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s... Read More →
S
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

11:30am PDT

Lunch, Outside or Inside Group 2 LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Front yard or Monroe Bldg.
Choose your lunch site. Front Yard, Monru Bldg, other
Speakers
TA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 11:50am PDT
Front yard or Monroe Bldg. Other areas
  4

11:30am PDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 11:30am - 12:00pm PDT
Octagon Barn
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 musicians will fill the air with the beautiful sound of these instruments being played. There may be some ‘hands on’ music making (depending on the size of the group and time available), plus a-sing-a-along with the musicians!
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 14, 2025 11:30am - 12:00pm PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

12:00pm PDT

2032 Theme Station: See The Changes - Then & Now LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Main Arena
On the Barn Loft, see/hear the history of the 100+ year old Thumb Octagon Barn, how it was built using the tools of old, THEN what tools would be used if built today! Nothing like seeing the Barn up-close and personal from several heights! Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) will tell the story of life in rural Michigan in the 1920’s, including 4-H, and the changes today using modern household equipment in the kitchen/house. Thumb Electric House displays the effect on life style before electricity and since. THEN & NOW farm/yard equipment will be side by side to show size differences and $$ increases. This is a ‘must see’ SOn the Barn Loft, see/hear the history of the 100+ year old Thumb Octagon Barn, how it was built using the tools of old, THEN what tools would be used if built today! Nothing like seeing the Barn up-close and personal from several heights! Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) will tell the story of life in rural Michigan in the 1920’s, including 4-H, and the changes today using modern household equipment in the kitchen/house. Thumb Electric House displays the effect on life style before electricity and since. THEN & NOW farm/yard equipment will be side by side to show size differences and $$ increases. This is a ‘must see’ Station for School Tours 2025!tation for School Tours 2025! Note: Theme Station requires walking up a flight of stairs.
Speakers
MS
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

12:00pm PDT

Dairy Station & MSU Extension/Nutrition: LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn
The dairy display showcases how farmers have processed milk, both in the past and present. It includes a variety of old milking equipment, a mock milking area, and a milk house where milk was cooled and utensils were cleaned. There will also be hands-on demonstrations to show that milking cows doesn’t hurt them! Visitors will learn that cows eat corn and other grains grown and processed on the farm. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to see a beautifully restored milk wagon that was once used to deliver milk right to people's homes. A volunteer will be available to explain how and why these tools were used. Michigan State University Extension will share why milk is essential for good health! This station is fun for visitors of all ages!
Moderators
NA
Speakers
BI
Sponsors
ME
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

12:00pm PDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn
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 musicians will fill the air with the beautiful sound of these instruments being played. There may be some ‘hands on’ music making (depending on the size of the group and time available), plus a-sing-a-along with the musicians!
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 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

12:00pm PDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching) LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development of chicks in the egg and see the incubated egg hatch. They will learn why water is needed in the incubation and immediate post hatching, as well as the chicken’s entire life. At the conclusion of their visit the students will see the baby chicks in the brooder - drinking and feeding. Health concerns prevent the live hatching of eggs demonstration this year.
Moderators
MK
Speakers
RW
Sponsors
4A
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

12:00pm PDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
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!
Moderators
RR
BM
Speakers
DR
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill Behind the School House/Ditch
  1

12:00pm PDT

Live Farm Animals LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn North side
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies will be there! There will be goats, horses - of all sizes - pigs, calves, rabbits, donkeys, plus!!! The students will be able to see, hear, touch (& SMELL!) a variety of live farm animals! What changes in what animals were at the Thumb Octagon Barn 1924 and 2025 - and why! - will be discussed. Students will also learn about a variety of foods/grains that are fed to the animals each day.
Moderators
LS

Lizzy Schumitsch

Live Farm Animals, Thresa Schumitsch Lizzy Schumitsch
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies will be there! There will be goats, horses - of all sizes - pigs, calves, rabbits, donkeys, plus!!! The students will be able to see, hear, touch (& SMELL!) a variety of live farm... Read More →
Speakers
TS
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn North side Octagon Barn
  1

12:00pm PDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Purdy Garage
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! - 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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

12:00pm PDT

Rope Making LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn Complex
Rope is made by twisting a number of fibers. Rope was one of the main tools on a farm 100+ years 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. Today rope/fiber is used in many different ways as a part of STEM activities and in today’s world. By twisting and weaving small ropes/fibers into larger, stronger ropes/fibers, more difficult/intricate work can be accomplished on the farm (and in life!)
Moderators
NP
Speakers
DM
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn Complex South side of Barn
  1

12:00pm PDT

Souvenirs LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Main Floor
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC
Sponsors
TO
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

12:00pm PDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Registration Area
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

Tractor Shuttle
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, BUT they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building... Read More →
Sponsors
TO
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

12:00pm PDT

Apple Cider pressing operation LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Cider Press Building
A Century old Plus, Jewel at the Thumb Octagon Barn, is the 1914 apple cider press! Apples will be squeezed and fresh apple cider will flow. You will help place apples on the conveyor.
Speakers
DS

David & Shiela Babcock

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Plus, Jewel at the Thumb Octagon Barn, is the 1914 apple cider press!  Apples will be squeezed, and fresh apple cider will flow.  You will help place apples on the conveyor. 
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

12:00pm PDT

Blacksmith Shop LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Blacksmith Shop
While visiting the blacksmith shop, students will see how metal is transformed into helpful and decorative items. The blacksmith will also demonstrate how the metal is heated in a forge - fueled by coal - until it turns orange in color. Then the metal will be hammered out into useful shapes for making agricultural tools - that would be used by farmers - shelf brackets, candle holders, hooks, and/or other tools that were used in earlier days - before electricity.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
While visiting the blacksmith shop, students will see how metal is transformed into helpful and decorative items. The blacksmith will also demonstrate how the metal is heated in a forge - fueled by coal - until it turns orange in color.  Then the metal will be hammered out into useful... Read More →
B
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

12:00pm PDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our food from the farm field to our dinner tables, plus to feed the farm animals. Students will have the opportunity to view working equipment, including mills -which clean and size the grain - vertical conveyors - called grain legs - and scales. They will be able to see and touch examples of different grains. The equipment is vintage, but the basic processes are still those used in today’s modern grain elevators. Examples of familiar food products found in our kitchen will be displayed to help students understand that the grains processed are found in many of the foods we eat and enjoy today.
Speakers
S
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
  2

12:00pm PDT

Live Bee display LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn
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

Steve Steeley

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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

12:00pm PDT

Powerhouse: Vintage Cars & Garage: Vintage Memorabilia: LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Power house
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 then. Students will be able to see peat bricks that were used to run a steam engine and a generator used to bring electricity to the house and barn of Mr. & Mrs. Purdy. Students will also have the ability to see what wiring would have looked like. Forget the Romex wires used today, in 1930 we had a system known as the knob and tube.
Moderators
RH

Ron Hoffman

Grounds maintenance
Ron is the main contact person for help around the barn.  
Speakers
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse: Vintage Cars & Garage: 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 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

12:00pm PDT

Purdy House Tour LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home - is a "must see" companion to 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. Expect to see many “Then & Now” changes when you visit! 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home - is a "must see" companion to 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... Read More →
Artists
SA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

12:00pm PDT

Saw Mill Demonstration and Museum LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Saw Mill Building
This Station tour begins at the Sawmill Museum. The students will see actual photos from the by-gone era, plus many of the actual tools that were used in the forests. Shown/discussed also will be how the logs were transported to the sawmill. There will be a short discussion of Michigan history and the part that lumbering, including major fires, played in development of rural Michigan. Following this year’s theme, ‘Then & Now - See The Changes!’ tools used to cut down trees 100+ years ago will be shown/compared to those used today. A demonstration of crosscut saws, broadaxes, vs. chain saws will be given. At the sawmill, presenters will demonstrate what the settlers had to go through ‘to put a roof over their heads.’ The students will also see the presenters make hand split shakes (shingles) for the roof. The importance of working together will be highlighted and demonstrated with hands-on activities. Lastly the huge sawmill will be fired up so the students can see/hear/smell/touch what it takes to provide the lumber used in building then and today. No matter what age - 5 to 55 - this presentation is educational - involving STEM learning and rural Michigan history - very interesting, & a GREAT Station to visit!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo

Paul Deo

Saw Mill and Museum Demonstration
This Station tour begins at the Sawmill Museum. The students will see actual photos from the by-gone era, plus many of the actual tools that were used in the forests. Shown/discussed also will be how the logs were transported to the sawmill. There will be a short discussion of Michigan... Read More →
Speakers
WL
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Saw Mill Building
  2

12:00pm PDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Sugar Shack
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/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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

12:00pm PDT

Children's activity/tractors LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Tent north of the barn
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys from the past. Some of the activities will be related to this years theme. The activities are fun and related activities used long ago, like checkers, stilts to walk on, ring toss, blowing bubbles, and a water tank filled with corn to play in! NO electronics here ‘Then or Now!’ The vintage tractors are also in this station ‘to sit on/drive.’ Farm tractors are part of our Grandparents’ heritage. Get the feel by sitting on these old tractors - making believe that your driving - for a few minutes; feel how hard the seats were for your Grandparents/Great-Grandparents to sit on from morning to night!
Moderators
MA

Mary Ann Cox

This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys from the past. Some of the activities will be related to this years theme. The activities are fun and related activities used long ago, like checkers, stilts to walk on, ring... Read More →
Speakers
MI
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

12:00pm PDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the children about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see 7 musicians accompanying themselves on guitar, harmonica, mandolin, dulcimer, violin, bass guitar and banjo.  They will be performing old-time folk, children’s songs and songs about farm animals.  At this station, we encourage the students and adults to sing along, doing the ‘do-si-do” and “hokey pokey”, amongst others.  Sing and dance to the music of yesteryear.
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Goal: Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the children about some of the music played in earlier days. Musicians will be playing mandolins, violins, and other string instruments, as they sing. They will also show/explain how each instrument is played and why they were... Read More →
Artists
MA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behind house
  3

12:00pm PDT

One Room Country School House and Museum LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
School House & School Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s schools/classrooms, we hope to take them back in time and perhaps, more fully appreciate their advantages today. The Museum displays photos and memorabilia from One Room Country Schools in the Thumb and the State of Michigan. There is even a player piano that demonstrates songs played without hands!
Moderators
BP

Brian Peters

School House and School House Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

One Room Country School House & School House Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s... Read More →
S
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

12:00pm PDT

Lunch, Outside or Inside Group 3 LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Front yard or Monroe Bldg.
Choose your lunch site. Front Yard, Monru Bldg, other
Speakers
TA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:00pm - 12:20pm PDT
Front yard or Monroe Bldg. Other areas
  4

12:30pm PDT

2033 Theme Station: See The Changes - Then & Now LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Main Arena
On the Barn Loft, see/hear the history of the 100+ year old Thumb Octagon Barn, how it was built using the tools of old, THEN what tools would be used if built today! Nothing like seeing the Barn up-close and personal from several heights! Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) will tell the story of life in rural Michigan in the 1920’s, including 4-H, and the changes today using modern household equipment in the kitchen/house. Thumb Electric House displays the effect on life style before electricity and since. THEN & NOW farm/yard equipment will be side by side to show size differences and $$ increases. This is a ‘must see’ SOn the Barn Loft, see/hear the history of the 100+ year old Thumb Octagon Barn, how it was built using the tools of old, THEN what tools would be used if built today! Nothing like seeing the Barn up-close and personal from several heights! Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) will tell the story of life in rural Michigan in the 1920’s, including 4-H, and the changes today using modern household equipment in the kitchen/house. Thumb Electric House displays the effect on life style before electricity and since. THEN & NOW farm/yard equipment will be side by side to show size differences and $$ increases. This is a ‘must see’ Station for School Tours 2025!tation for School Tours 2025! Note: Theme Station requires walking up a flight of stairs.
Speakers
MS
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

12:30pm PDT

Dairy Station & MSU Extension/Nutrition: LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn
The dairy display showcases how farmers have processed milk, both in the past and present. It includes a variety of old milking equipment, a mock milking area, and a milk house where milk was cooled and utensils were cleaned. There will also be hands-on demonstrations to show that milking cows doesn’t hurt them! Visitors will learn that cows eat corn and other grains grown and processed on the farm. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to see a beautifully restored milk wagon that was once used to deliver milk right to people's homes. A volunteer will be available to explain how and why these tools were used. Michigan State University Extension will share why milk is essential for good health! This station is fun for visitors of all ages!
Moderators
NA
Speakers
BI
Sponsors
ME
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

12:30pm PDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn
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 musicians will fill the air with the beautiful sound of these instruments being played. There may be some ‘hands on’ music making (depending on the size of the group and time available), plus a-sing-a-along with the musicians!
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 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

12:30pm PDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching) LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development of chicks in the egg and see the incubated egg hatch. They will learn why water is needed in the incubation and immediate post hatching, as well as the chicken’s entire life. At the conclusion of their visit the students will see the baby chicks in the brooder - drinking and feeding. Health concerns prevent the live hatching of eggs demonstration this year.
Moderators
MK
Speakers
RW
Sponsors
4A
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

12:30pm PDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
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!
Moderators
RR
BM
Speakers
DR
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill Behind the School House/Ditch
  1

12:30pm PDT

Live Farm Animals LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn North side
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies will be there! There will be goats, horses - of all sizes - pigs, calves, rabbits, donkeys, plus!!! The students will be able to see, hear, touch (& SMELL!) a variety of live farm animals! What changes in what animals were at the Thumb Octagon Barn 1924 and 2025 - and why! - will be discussed. Students will also learn about a variety of foods/grains that are fed to the animals each day.
Moderators
LS

Lizzy Schumitsch

Live Farm Animals, Thresa Schumitsch Lizzy Schumitsch
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies will be there! There will be goats, horses - of all sizes - pigs, calves, rabbits, donkeys, plus!!! The students will be able to see, hear, touch (& SMELL!) a variety of live farm... Read More →
Speakers
TS
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn North side Octagon Barn
  1

12:30pm PDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Purdy Garage
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! - 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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

12:30pm PDT

Rope Making LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn Complex
Rope is made by twisting a number of fibers. Rope was one of the main tools on a farm 100+ years 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. Today rope/fiber is used in many different ways as a part of STEM activities and in today’s world. By twisting and weaving small ropes/fibers into larger, stronger ropes/fibers, more difficult/intricate work can be accomplished on the farm (and in life!)
Moderators
NP
Speakers
DM
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn Complex South side of Barn
  1

12:30pm PDT

Souvenirs LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Main Floor
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC
Sponsors
TO
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

12:30pm PDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Registration Area
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

Tractor Shuttle
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, BUT they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building... Read More →
Sponsors
TO
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

12:30pm PDT

Apple Cider pressing operation LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Cider Press Building
A Century old Plus, Jewel at the Thumb Octagon Barn, is the 1914 apple cider press! Apples will be squeezed and fresh apple cider will flow. You will help place apples on the conveyor.
Speakers
DS

David & Shiela Babcock

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Plus, Jewel at the Thumb Octagon Barn, is the 1914 apple cider press!  Apples will be squeezed, and fresh apple cider will flow.  You will help place apples on the conveyor. 
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

12:30pm PDT

Blacksmith Shop LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Blacksmith Shop
While visiting the blacksmith shop, students will see how metal is transformed into helpful and decorative items. The blacksmith will also demonstrate how the metal is heated in a forge - fueled by coal - until it turns orange in color. Then the metal will be hammered out into useful shapes for making agricultural tools - that would be used by farmers - shelf brackets, candle holders, hooks, and/or other tools that were used in earlier days - before electricity.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
While visiting the blacksmith shop, students will see how metal is transformed into helpful and decorative items. The blacksmith will also demonstrate how the metal is heated in a forge - fueled by coal - until it turns orange in color.  Then the metal will be hammered out into useful... Read More →
B
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

12:30pm PDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our food from the farm field to our dinner tables, plus to feed the farm animals. Students will have the opportunity to view working equipment, including mills -which clean and size the grain - vertical conveyors - called grain legs - and scales. They will be able to see and touch examples of different grains. The equipment is vintage, but the basic processes are still those used in today’s modern grain elevators. Examples of familiar food products found in our kitchen will be displayed to help students understand that the grains processed are found in many of the foods we eat and enjoy today.
Speakers
S
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
  2

12:30pm PDT

Live Bee display LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn
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

Steve Steeley

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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

12:30pm PDT

Powerhouse: Vintage Cars & Garage: Vintage Memorabilia: LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Power house
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 then. Students will be able to see peat bricks that were used to run a steam engine and a generator used to bring electricity to the house and barn of Mr. & Mrs. Purdy. Students will also have the ability to see what wiring would have looked like. Forget the Romex wires used today, in 1930 we had a system known as the knob and tube.
Moderators
RH

Ron Hoffman

Grounds maintenance
Ron is the main contact person for help around the barn.  
Speakers
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse: Vintage Cars & Garage: 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 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

12:30pm PDT

Purdy House Tour LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home - is a "must see" companion to 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. Expect to see many “Then & Now” changes when you visit! 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home - is a "must see" companion to 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... Read More →
Artists
SA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

12:30pm PDT

Saw Mill Demonstration and Museum LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Saw Mill Building
This Station tour begins at the Sawmill Museum. The students will see actual photos from the by-gone era, plus many of the actual tools that were used in the forests. Shown/discussed also will be how the logs were transported to the sawmill. There will be a short discussion of Michigan history and the part that lumbering, including major fires, played in development of rural Michigan. Following this year’s theme, ‘Then & Now - See The Changes!’ tools used to cut down trees 100+ years ago will be shown/compared to those used today. A demonstration of crosscut saws, broadaxes, vs. chain saws will be given. At the sawmill, presenters will demonstrate what the settlers had to go through ‘to put a roof over their heads.’ The students will also see the presenters make hand split shakes (shingles) for the roof. The importance of working together will be highlighted and demonstrated with hands-on activities. Lastly the huge sawmill will be fired up so the students can see/hear/smell/touch what it takes to provide the lumber used in building then and today. No matter what age - 5 to 55 - this presentation is educational - involving STEM learning and rural Michigan history - very interesting, & a GREAT Station to visit!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo

Paul Deo

Saw Mill and Museum Demonstration
This Station tour begins at the Sawmill Museum. The students will see actual photos from the by-gone era, plus many of the actual tools that were used in the forests. Shown/discussed also will be how the logs were transported to the sawmill. There will be a short discussion of Michigan... Read More →
Speakers
WL
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Saw Mill Building
  2

12:30pm PDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Sugar Shack
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/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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

12:30pm PDT

Children's activity/tractors LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Tent north of the barn
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys from the past. Some of the activities will be related to this years theme. The activities are fun and related activities used long ago, like checkers, stilts to walk on, ring toss, blowing bubbles, and a water tank filled with corn to play in! NO electronics here ‘Then or Now!’ The vintage tractors are also in this station ‘to sit on/drive.’ Farm tractors are part of our Grandparents’ heritage. Get the feel by sitting on these old tractors - making believe that your driving - for a few minutes; feel how hard the seats were for your Grandparents/Great-Grandparents to sit on from morning to night!
Moderators
MA

Mary Ann Cox

This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys from the past. Some of the activities will be related to this years theme. The activities are fun and related activities used long ago, like checkers, stilts to walk on, ring... Read More →
Speakers
MI
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

12:30pm PDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the children about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see 7 musicians accompanying themselves on guitar, harmonica, mandolin, dulcimer, violin, bass guitar and banjo.  They will be performing old-time folk, children’s songs and songs about farm animals.  At this station, we encourage the students and adults to sing along, doing the ‘do-si-do” and “hokey pokey”, amongst others.  Sing and dance to the music of yesteryear.
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Goal: Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the children about some of the music played in earlier days. Musicians will be playing mandolins, violins, and other string instruments, as they sing. They will also show/explain how each instrument is played and why they were... Read More →
Artists
MA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behind house
  3

12:30pm PDT

One Room Country School House and Museum LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
School House & School Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s schools/classrooms, we hope to take them back in time and perhaps, more fully appreciate their advantages today. The Museum displays photos and memorabilia from One Room Country Schools in the Thumb and the State of Michigan. There is even a player piano that demonstrates songs played without hands!
Moderators
BP

Brian Peters

School House and School House Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

One Room Country School House & School House Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s... Read More →
S
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

12:30pm PDT

Lunch, Outside or Inside Group 4 LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Front yard or Monroe Bldg.
Choose your lunch site. Front Yard, Monru Bldg, other
Speakers
TA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 12:30pm - 12:50pm PDT
Front yard or Monroe Bldg. Other areas
  4

1:00pm PDT

2034 Theme Station: See The Changes - Then & Now LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Main Arena
On the Barn Loft, see/hear the history of the 100+ year old Thumb Octagon Barn, how it was built using the tools of old, THEN what tools would be used if built today! Nothing like seeing the Barn up-close and personal from several heights! Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) will tell the story of life in rural Michigan in the 1920’s, including 4-H, and the changes today using modern household equipment in the kitchen/house. Thumb Electric House displays the effect on life style before electricity and since. THEN & NOW farm/yard equipment will be side by side to show size differences and $$ increases. This is a ‘must see’ SOn the Barn Loft, see/hear the history of the 100+ year old Thumb Octagon Barn, how it was built using the tools of old, THEN what tools would be used if built today! Nothing like seeing the Barn up-close and personal from several heights! Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) will tell the story of life in rural Michigan in the 1920’s, including 4-H, and the changes today using modern household equipment in the kitchen/house. Thumb Electric House displays the effect on life style before electricity and since. THEN & NOW farm/yard equipment will be side by side to show size differences and $$ increases. This is a ‘must see’ Station for School Tours 2025!tation for School Tours 2025! Note: Theme Station requires walking up a flight of stairs.
Speakers
MS
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

1:00pm PDT

Dairy Station & MSU Extension/Nutrition: LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn
The dairy display showcases how farmers have processed milk, both in the past and present. It includes a variety of old milking equipment, a mock milking area, and a milk house where milk was cooled and utensils were cleaned. There will also be hands-on demonstrations to show that milking cows doesn’t hurt them! Visitors will learn that cows eat corn and other grains grown and processed on the farm. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to see a beautifully restored milk wagon that was once used to deliver milk right to people's homes. A volunteer will be available to explain how and why these tools were used. Michigan State University Extension will share why milk is essential for good health! This station is fun for visitors of all ages!
Moderators
NA
Speakers
BI
Sponsors
ME
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

1:00pm PDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn
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 musicians will fill the air with the beautiful sound of these instruments being played. There may be some ‘hands on’ music making (depending on the size of the group and time available), plus a-sing-a-along with the musicians!
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 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

1:00pm PDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching) LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development of chicks in the egg and see the incubated egg hatch. They will learn why water is needed in the incubation and immediate post hatching, as well as the chicken’s entire life. At the conclusion of their visit the students will see the baby chicks in the brooder - drinking and feeding. Health concerns prevent the live hatching of eggs demonstration this year.
Moderators
MK
Speakers
RW
Sponsors
4A
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

1:00pm PDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
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!
Moderators
RR
BM
Speakers
DR
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill Behind the School House/Ditch
  1

1:00pm PDT

Live Farm Animals LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn North side
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies will be there! There will be goats, horses - of all sizes - pigs, calves, rabbits, donkeys, plus!!! The students will be able to see, hear, touch (& SMELL!) a variety of live farm animals! What changes in what animals were at the Thumb Octagon Barn 1924 and 2025 - and why! - will be discussed. Students will also learn about a variety of foods/grains that are fed to the animals each day.
Moderators
LS

Lizzy Schumitsch

Live Farm Animals, Thresa Schumitsch Lizzy Schumitsch
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies will be there! There will be goats, horses - of all sizes - pigs, calves, rabbits, donkeys, plus!!! The students will be able to see, hear, touch (& SMELL!) a variety of live farm... Read More →
Speakers
TS
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn North side Octagon Barn
  1

1:00pm PDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Purdy Garage
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! - 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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

1:00pm PDT

Rope Making LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn Complex
Rope is made by twisting a number of fibers. Rope was one of the main tools on a farm 100+ years 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. Today rope/fiber is used in many different ways as a part of STEM activities and in today’s world. By twisting and weaving small ropes/fibers into larger, stronger ropes/fibers, more difficult/intricate work can be accomplished on the farm (and in life!)
Moderators
NP
Speakers
DM
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn Complex South side of Barn
  1

1:00pm PDT

Souvenirs LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Main Floor
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC
Sponsors
TO
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

1:00pm PDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Registration Area
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

Tractor Shuttle
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, BUT they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building... Read More →
Sponsors
TO
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

1:00pm PDT

Apple Cider pressing operation LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Cider Press Building
A Century old Plus, Jewel at the Thumb Octagon Barn, is the 1914 apple cider press! Apples will be squeezed and fresh apple cider will flow. You will help place apples on the conveyor.
Speakers
DS

David & Shiela Babcock

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Plus, Jewel at the Thumb Octagon Barn, is the 1914 apple cider press!  Apples will be squeezed, and fresh apple cider will flow.  You will help place apples on the conveyor. 
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

1:00pm PDT

Blacksmith Shop LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Blacksmith Shop
While visiting the blacksmith shop, students will see how metal is transformed into helpful and decorative items. The blacksmith will also demonstrate how the metal is heated in a forge - fueled by coal - until it turns orange in color. Then the metal will be hammered out into useful shapes for making agricultural tools - that would be used by farmers - shelf brackets, candle holders, hooks, and/or other tools that were used in earlier days - before electricity.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
While visiting the blacksmith shop, students will see how metal is transformed into helpful and decorative items. The blacksmith will also demonstrate how the metal is heated in a forge - fueled by coal - until it turns orange in color.  Then the metal will be hammered out into useful... Read More →
B
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

1:00pm PDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our food from the farm field to our dinner tables, plus to feed the farm animals. Students will have the opportunity to view working equipment, including mills -which clean and size the grain - vertical conveyors - called grain legs - and scales. They will be able to see and touch examples of different grains. The equipment is vintage, but the basic processes are still those used in today’s modern grain elevators. Examples of familiar food products found in our kitchen will be displayed to help students understand that the grains processed are found in many of the foods we eat and enjoy today.
Speakers
S
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
  2

1:00pm PDT

Live Bee display LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn
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

Steve Steeley

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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

1:00pm PDT

Powerhouse: Vintage Cars & Garage: Vintage Memorabilia: LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Power house
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 then. Students will be able to see peat bricks that were used to run a steam engine and a generator used to bring electricity to the house and barn of Mr. & Mrs. Purdy. Students will also have the ability to see what wiring would have looked like. Forget the Romex wires used today, in 1930 we had a system known as the knob and tube.
Moderators
RH

Ron Hoffman

Grounds maintenance
Ron is the main contact person for help around the barn.  
Speakers
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse: Vintage Cars & Garage: 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 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

1:00pm PDT

Purdy House Tour LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home - is a "must see" companion to 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. Expect to see many “Then & Now” changes when you visit! 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home - is a "must see" companion to 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... Read More →
Artists
SA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

1:00pm PDT

Saw Mill Demonstration and Museum LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Saw Mill Building
This Station tour begins at the Sawmill Museum. The students will see actual photos from the by-gone era, plus many of the actual tools that were used in the forests. Shown/discussed also will be how the logs were transported to the sawmill. There will be a short discussion of Michigan history and the part that lumbering, including major fires, played in development of rural Michigan. Following this year’s theme, ‘Then & Now - See The Changes!’ tools used to cut down trees 100+ years ago will be shown/compared to those used today. A demonstration of crosscut saws, broadaxes, vs. chain saws will be given. At the sawmill, presenters will demonstrate what the settlers had to go through ‘to put a roof over their heads.’ The students will also see the presenters make hand split shakes (shingles) for the roof. The importance of working together will be highlighted and demonstrated with hands-on activities. Lastly the huge sawmill will be fired up so the students can see/hear/smell/touch what it takes to provide the lumber used in building then and today. No matter what age - 5 to 55 - this presentation is educational - involving STEM learning and rural Michigan history - very interesting, & a GREAT Station to visit!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo

Paul Deo

Saw Mill and Museum Demonstration
This Station tour begins at the Sawmill Museum. The students will see actual photos from the by-gone era, plus many of the actual tools that were used in the forests. Shown/discussed also will be how the logs were transported to the sawmill. There will be a short discussion of Michigan... Read More →
Speakers
WL
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Saw Mill Building
  2

1:00pm PDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Sugar Shack
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/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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

1:00pm PDT

Children's activity/tractors LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Tent north of the barn
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys from the past. Some of the activities will be related to this years theme. The activities are fun and related activities used long ago, like checkers, stilts to walk on, ring toss, blowing bubbles, and a water tank filled with corn to play in! NO electronics here ‘Then or Now!’ The vintage tractors are also in this station ‘to sit on/drive.’ Farm tractors are part of our Grandparents’ heritage. Get the feel by sitting on these old tractors - making believe that your driving - for a few minutes; feel how hard the seats were for your Grandparents/Great-Grandparents to sit on from morning to night!
Moderators
MA

Mary Ann Cox

This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys from the past. Some of the activities will be related to this years theme. The activities are fun and related activities used long ago, like checkers, stilts to walk on, ring... Read More →
Speakers
MI
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

1:00pm PDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the children about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see 7 musicians accompanying themselves on guitar, harmonica, mandolin, dulcimer, violin, bass guitar and banjo.  They will be performing old-time folk, children’s songs and songs about farm animals.  At this station, we encourage the students and adults to sing along, doing the ‘do-si-do” and “hokey pokey”, amongst others.  Sing and dance to the music of yesteryear.
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Goal: Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the children about some of the music played in earlier days. Musicians will be playing mandolins, violins, and other string instruments, as they sing. They will also show/explain how each instrument is played and why they were... Read More →
Artists
MA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behind house
  3

1:00pm PDT

One Room Country School House and Museum LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
School House & School Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s schools/classrooms, we hope to take them back in time and perhaps, more fully appreciate their advantages today. The Museum displays photos and memorabilia from One Room Country Schools in the Thumb and the State of Michigan. There is even a player piano that demonstrates songs played without hands!
Moderators
BP

Brian Peters

School House and School House Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

One Room Country School House & School House Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s... Read More →
S
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:00pm - 1:20pm PDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

1:30pm PDT

2035 Theme Station: See The Changes - Then & Now LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Main Arena
On the Barn Loft, see/hear the history of the 100+ year old Thumb Octagon Barn, how it was built using the tools of old, THEN what tools would be used if built today! Nothing like seeing the Barn up-close and personal from several heights! Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) will tell the story of life in rural Michigan in the 1920’s, including 4-H, and the changes today using modern household equipment in the kitchen/house. Thumb Electric House displays the effect on life style before electricity and since. THEN & NOW farm/yard equipment will be side by side to show size differences and $$ increases. This is a ‘must see’ SOn the Barn Loft, see/hear the history of the 100+ year old Thumb Octagon Barn, how it was built using the tools of old, THEN what tools would be used if built today! Nothing like seeing the Barn up-close and personal from several heights! Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) will tell the story of life in rural Michigan in the 1920’s, including 4-H, and the changes today using modern household equipment in the kitchen/house. Thumb Electric House displays the effect on life style before electricity and since. THEN & NOW farm/yard equipment will be side by side to show size differences and $$ increases. This is a ‘must see’ Station for School Tours 2025!tation for School Tours 2025! Note: Theme Station requires walking up a flight of stairs.
Speakers
MS
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

1:30pm PDT

Dairy Station & MSU Extension/Nutrition: LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn
The dairy display showcases how farmers have processed milk, both in the past and present. It includes a variety of old milking equipment, a mock milking area, and a milk house where milk was cooled and utensils were cleaned. There will also be hands-on demonstrations to show that milking cows doesn’t hurt them! Visitors will learn that cows eat corn and other grains grown and processed on the farm. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to see a beautifully restored milk wagon that was once used to deliver milk right to people's homes. A volunteer will be available to explain how and why these tools were used. Michigan State University Extension will share why milk is essential for good health! This station is fun for visitors of all ages!
Moderators
NA
Speakers
BI
Sponsors
ME
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

1:30pm PDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn
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 musicians will fill the air with the beautiful sound of these instruments being played. There may be some ‘hands on’ music making (depending on the size of the group and time available), plus a-sing-a-along with the musicians!
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 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

1:30pm PDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching) LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development of chicks in the egg and see the incubated egg hatch. They will learn why water is needed in the incubation and immediate post hatching, as well as the chicken’s entire life. At the conclusion of their visit the students will see the baby chicks in the brooder - drinking and feeding. Health concerns prevent the live hatching of eggs demonstration this year.
Moderators
MK
Speakers
RW
Sponsors
4A
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

1:30pm PDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
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!
Moderators
RR
BM
Speakers
DR
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill Behind the School House/Ditch
  1

1:30pm PDT

Live Farm Animals LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn North side
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies will be there! There will be goats, horses - of all sizes - pigs, calves, rabbits, donkeys, plus!!! The students will be able to see, hear, touch (& SMELL!) a variety of live farm animals! What changes in what animals were at the Thumb Octagon Barn 1924 and 2025 - and why! - will be discussed. Students will also learn about a variety of foods/grains that are fed to the animals each day.
Moderators
LS

Lizzy Schumitsch

Live Farm Animals, Thresa Schumitsch Lizzy Schumitsch
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies will be there! There will be goats, horses - of all sizes - pigs, calves, rabbits, donkeys, plus!!! The students will be able to see, hear, touch (& SMELL!) a variety of live farm... Read More →
Speakers
TS
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn North side Octagon Barn
  1

1:30pm PDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Purdy Garage
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! - 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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

1:30pm PDT

Rope Making LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn Complex
Rope is made by twisting a number of fibers. Rope was one of the main tools on a farm 100+ years 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. Today rope/fiber is used in many different ways as a part of STEM activities and in today’s world. By twisting and weaving small ropes/fibers into larger, stronger ropes/fibers, more difficult/intricate work can be accomplished on the farm (and in life!)
Moderators
NP
Speakers
DM
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn Complex South side of Barn
  1

1:30pm PDT

Souvenirs LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Main Floor
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC
Sponsors
TO
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

1:30pm PDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Registration Area
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

Tractor Shuttle
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, BUT they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building... Read More →
Sponsors
TO
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

1:30pm PDT

Apple Cider pressing operation LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Cider Press Building
A Century old Plus, Jewel at the Thumb Octagon Barn, is the 1914 apple cider press! Apples will be squeezed and fresh apple cider will flow. You will help place apples on the conveyor.
Speakers
DS

David & Shiela Babcock

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Plus, Jewel at the Thumb Octagon Barn, is the 1914 apple cider press!  Apples will be squeezed, and fresh apple cider will flow.  You will help place apples on the conveyor. 
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

1:30pm PDT

Blacksmith Shop LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Blacksmith Shop
While visiting the blacksmith shop, students will see how metal is transformed into helpful and decorative items. The blacksmith will also demonstrate how the metal is heated in a forge - fueled by coal - until it turns orange in color. Then the metal will be hammered out into useful shapes for making agricultural tools - that would be used by farmers - shelf brackets, candle holders, hooks, and/or other tools that were used in earlier days - before electricity.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
While visiting the blacksmith shop, students will see how metal is transformed into helpful and decorative items. The blacksmith will also demonstrate how the metal is heated in a forge - fueled by coal - until it turns orange in color.  Then the metal will be hammered out into useful... Read More →
B
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

1:30pm PDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our food from the farm field to our dinner tables, plus to feed the farm animals. Students will have the opportunity to view working equipment, including mills -which clean and size the grain - vertical conveyors - called grain legs - and scales. They will be able to see and touch examples of different grains. The equipment is vintage, but the basic processes are still those used in today’s modern grain elevators. Examples of familiar food products found in our kitchen will be displayed to help students understand that the grains processed are found in many of the foods we eat and enjoy today.
Speakers
S
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
  2

1:30pm PDT

Live Bee display LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn
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

Steve Steeley

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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

1:30pm PDT

Powerhouse: Vintage Cars & Garage: Vintage Memorabilia: LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Power house
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 then. Students will be able to see peat bricks that were used to run a steam engine and a generator used to bring electricity to the house and barn of Mr. & Mrs. Purdy. Students will also have the ability to see what wiring would have looked like. Forget the Romex wires used today, in 1930 we had a system known as the knob and tube.
Moderators
RH

Ron Hoffman

Grounds maintenance
Ron is the main contact person for help around the barn.  
Speakers
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse: Vintage Cars & Garage: 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 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

1:30pm PDT

Purdy House Tour LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home - is a "must see" companion to 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. Expect to see many “Then & Now” changes when you visit! 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home - is a "must see" companion to 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... Read More →
Artists
SA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

1:30pm PDT

Saw Mill Demonstration and Museum LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Saw Mill Building
This Station tour begins at the Sawmill Museum. The students will see actual photos from the by-gone era, plus many of the actual tools that were used in the forests. Shown/discussed also will be how the logs were transported to the sawmill. There will be a short discussion of Michigan history and the part that lumbering, including major fires, played in development of rural Michigan. Following this year’s theme, ‘Then & Now - See The Changes!’ tools used to cut down trees 100+ years ago will be shown/compared to those used today. A demonstration of crosscut saws, broadaxes, vs. chain saws will be given. At the sawmill, presenters will demonstrate what the settlers had to go through ‘to put a roof over their heads.’ The students will also see the presenters make hand split shakes (shingles) for the roof. The importance of working together will be highlighted and demonstrated with hands-on activities. Lastly the huge sawmill will be fired up so the students can see/hear/smell/touch what it takes to provide the lumber used in building then and today. No matter what age - 5 to 55 - this presentation is educational - involving STEM learning and rural Michigan history - very interesting, & a GREAT Station to visit!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo

Paul Deo

Saw Mill and Museum Demonstration
This Station tour begins at the Sawmill Museum. The students will see actual photos from the by-gone era, plus many of the actual tools that were used in the forests. Shown/discussed also will be how the logs were transported to the sawmill. There will be a short discussion of Michigan... Read More →
Speakers
WL
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Saw Mill Building
  2

1:30pm PDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Sugar Shack
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/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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

1:30pm PDT

Children's activity/tractors LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Tent north of the barn
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys from the past. Some of the activities will be related to this years theme. The activities are fun and related activities used long ago, like checkers, stilts to walk on, ring toss, blowing bubbles, and a water tank filled with corn to play in! NO electronics here ‘Then or Now!’ The vintage tractors are also in this station ‘to sit on/drive.’ Farm tractors are part of our Grandparents’ heritage. Get the feel by sitting on these old tractors - making believe that your driving - for a few minutes; feel how hard the seats were for your Grandparents/Great-Grandparents to sit on from morning to night!
Moderators
MA

Mary Ann Cox

This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys from the past. Some of the activities will be related to this years theme. The activities are fun and related activities used long ago, like checkers, stilts to walk on, ring... Read More →
Speakers
MI
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

1:30pm PDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the children about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see 7 musicians accompanying themselves on guitar, harmonica, mandolin, dulcimer, violin, bass guitar and banjo.  They will be performing old-time folk, children’s songs and songs about farm animals.  At this station, we encourage the students and adults to sing along, doing the ‘do-si-do” and “hokey pokey”, amongst others.  Sing and dance to the music of yesteryear.
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Goal: Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the children about some of the music played in earlier days. Musicians will be playing mandolins, violins, and other string instruments, as they sing. They will also show/explain how each instrument is played and why they were... Read More →
Artists
MA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behind house
  3

1:30pm PDT

One Room Country School House and Museum LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
School House & School Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s schools/classrooms, we hope to take them back in time and perhaps, more fully appreciate their advantages today. The Museum displays photos and memorabilia from One Room Country Schools in the Thumb and the State of Michigan. There is even a player piano that demonstrates songs played without hands!
Moderators
BP

Brian Peters

School House and School House Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

One Room Country School House & School House Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s... Read More →
S
Wednesday May 14, 2025 1:30pm - 1:50pm PDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

2:00pm PDT

2036 Theme Station: See The Changes - Then & Now LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Main Arena
On the Barn Loft, see/hear the history of the 100+ year old Thumb Octagon Barn, how it was built using the tools of old, THEN what tools would be used if built today! Nothing like seeing the Barn up-close and personal from several heights! Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) will tell the story of life in rural Michigan in the 1920’s, including 4-H, and the changes today using modern household equipment in the kitchen/house. Thumb Electric House displays the effect on life style before electricity and since. THEN & NOW farm/yard equipment will be side by side to show size differences and $$ increases. This is a ‘must see’ SOn the Barn Loft, see/hear the history of the 100+ year old Thumb Octagon Barn, how it was built using the tools of old, THEN what tools would be used if built today! Nothing like seeing the Barn up-close and personal from several heights! Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) will tell the story of life in rural Michigan in the 1920’s, including 4-H, and the changes today using modern household equipment in the kitchen/house. Thumb Electric House displays the effect on life style before electricity and since. THEN & NOW farm/yard equipment will be side by side to show size differences and $$ increases. This is a ‘must see’ Station for School Tours 2025!tation for School Tours 2025! Note: Theme Station requires walking up a flight of stairs.
Speakers
MS
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

2:00pm PDT

Dairy Station & MSU Extension/Nutrition: LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn
The dairy display showcases how farmers have processed milk, both in the past and present. It includes a variety of old milking equipment, a mock milking area, and a milk house where milk was cooled and utensils were cleaned. There will also be hands-on demonstrations to show that milking cows doesn’t hurt them! Visitors will learn that cows eat corn and other grains grown and processed on the farm. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to see a beautifully restored milk wagon that was once used to deliver milk right to people's homes. A volunteer will be available to explain how and why these tools were used. Michigan State University Extension will share why milk is essential for good health! This station is fun for visitors of all ages!
Moderators
NA
Speakers
BI
Sponsors
ME
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

2:00pm PDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn
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 musicians will fill the air with the beautiful sound of these instruments being played. There may be some ‘hands on’ music making (depending on the size of the group and time available), plus a-sing-a-along with the musicians!
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 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

2:00pm PDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching) LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development of chicks in the egg and see the incubated egg hatch. They will learn why water is needed in the incubation and immediate post hatching, as well as the chicken’s entire life. At the conclusion of their visit the students will see the baby chicks in the brooder - drinking and feeding. Health concerns prevent the live hatching of eggs demonstration this year.
Moderators
MK
Speakers
RW
Sponsors
4A
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

2:00pm PDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
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!
Moderators
RR
BM
Speakers
DR
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill Behind the School House/Ditch
  1

2:00pm PDT

Live Farm Animals LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn North side
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies will be there! There will be goats, horses - of all sizes - pigs, calves, rabbits, donkeys, plus!!! The students will be able to see, hear, touch (& SMELL!) a variety of live farm animals! What changes in what animals were at the Thumb Octagon Barn 1924 and 2025 - and why! - will be discussed. Students will also learn about a variety of foods/grains that are fed to the animals each day.
Moderators
LS

Lizzy Schumitsch

Live Farm Animals, Thresa Schumitsch Lizzy Schumitsch
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies will be there! There will be goats, horses - of all sizes - pigs, calves, rabbits, donkeys, plus!!! The students will be able to see, hear, touch (& SMELL!) a variety of live farm... Read More →
Speakers
TS
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn North side Octagon Barn
  1

2:00pm PDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Purdy Garage
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! - 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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

2:00pm PDT

Rope Making LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn Complex
Rope is made by twisting a number of fibers. Rope was one of the main tools on a farm 100+ years 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. Today rope/fiber is used in many different ways as a part of STEM activities and in today’s world. By twisting and weaving small ropes/fibers into larger, stronger ropes/fibers, more difficult/intricate work can be accomplished on the farm (and in life!)
Moderators
NP
Speakers
DM
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn Complex South side of Barn
  1

2:00pm PDT

Souvenirs LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Main Floor
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC
Sponsors
TO
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

2:00pm PDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Registration Area
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

Tractor Shuttle
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, BUT they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building... Read More →
Sponsors
TO
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

2:00pm PDT

Apple Cider pressing operation LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Cider Press Building
A Century old Plus, Jewel at the Thumb Octagon Barn, is the 1914 apple cider press! Apples will be squeezed and fresh apple cider will flow. You will help place apples on the conveyor.
Speakers
DS

David & Shiela Babcock

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Plus, Jewel at the Thumb Octagon Barn, is the 1914 apple cider press!  Apples will be squeezed, and fresh apple cider will flow.  You will help place apples on the conveyor. 
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

2:00pm PDT

Blacksmith Shop LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Blacksmith Shop
While visiting the blacksmith shop, students will see how metal is transformed into helpful and decorative items. The blacksmith will also demonstrate how the metal is heated in a forge - fueled by coal - until it turns orange in color. Then the metal will be hammered out into useful shapes for making agricultural tools - that would be used by farmers - shelf brackets, candle holders, hooks, and/or other tools that were used in earlier days - before electricity.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
While visiting the blacksmith shop, students will see how metal is transformed into helpful and decorative items. The blacksmith will also demonstrate how the metal is heated in a forge - fueled by coal - until it turns orange in color.  Then the metal will be hammered out into useful... Read More →
B
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

2:00pm PDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our food from the farm field to our dinner tables, plus to feed the farm animals. Students will have the opportunity to view working equipment, including mills -which clean and size the grain - vertical conveyors - called grain legs - and scales. They will be able to see and touch examples of different grains. The equipment is vintage, but the basic processes are still those used in today’s modern grain elevators. Examples of familiar food products found in our kitchen will be displayed to help students understand that the grains processed are found in many of the foods we eat and enjoy today.
Speakers
S
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
  2

2:00pm PDT

Live Bee display LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn
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

Steve Steeley

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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

2:00pm PDT

Powerhouse: Vintage Cars & Garage: Vintage Memorabilia: LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Power house
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 then. Students will be able to see peat bricks that were used to run a steam engine and a generator used to bring electricity to the house and barn of Mr. & Mrs. Purdy. Students will also have the ability to see what wiring would have looked like. Forget the Romex wires used today, in 1930 we had a system known as the knob and tube.
Moderators
RH

Ron Hoffman

Grounds maintenance
Ron is the main contact person for help around the barn.  
Speakers
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse: Vintage Cars & Garage: 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 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

2:00pm PDT

Purdy House Tour LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home - is a "must see" companion to 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. Expect to see many “Then & Now” changes when you visit! 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home - is a "must see" companion to 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... Read More →
Artists
SA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

2:00pm PDT

Saw Mill Demonstration and Museum LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Saw Mill Building
This Station tour begins at the Sawmill Museum. The students will see actual photos from the by-gone era, plus many of the actual tools that were used in the forests. Shown/discussed also will be how the logs were transported to the sawmill. There will be a short discussion of Michigan history and the part that lumbering, including major fires, played in development of rural Michigan. Following this year’s theme, ‘Then & Now - See The Changes!’ tools used to cut down trees 100+ years ago will be shown/compared to those used today. A demonstration of crosscut saws, broadaxes, vs. chain saws will be given. At the sawmill, presenters will demonstrate what the settlers had to go through ‘to put a roof over their heads.’ The students will also see the presenters make hand split shakes (shingles) for the roof. The importance of working together will be highlighted and demonstrated with hands-on activities. Lastly the huge sawmill will be fired up so the students can see/hear/smell/touch what it takes to provide the lumber used in building then and today. No matter what age - 5 to 55 - this presentation is educational - involving STEM learning and rural Michigan history - very interesting, & a GREAT Station to visit!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo

Paul Deo

Saw Mill and Museum Demonstration
This Station tour begins at the Sawmill Museum. The students will see actual photos from the by-gone era, plus many of the actual tools that were used in the forests. Shown/discussed also will be how the logs were transported to the sawmill. There will be a short discussion of Michigan... Read More →
Speakers
WL
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Saw Mill Building
  2

2:00pm PDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Sugar Shack
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/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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

2:00pm PDT

Children's activity/tractors LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Tent north of the barn
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys from the past. Some of the activities will be related to this years theme. The activities are fun and related activities used long ago, like checkers, stilts to walk on, ring toss, blowing bubbles, and a water tank filled with corn to play in! NO electronics here ‘Then or Now!’ The vintage tractors are also in this station ‘to sit on/drive.’ Farm tractors are part of our Grandparents’ heritage. Get the feel by sitting on these old tractors - making believe that your driving - for a few minutes; feel how hard the seats were for your Grandparents/Great-Grandparents to sit on from morning to night!
Moderators
MA

Mary Ann Cox

This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys from the past. Some of the activities will be related to this years theme. The activities are fun and related activities used long ago, like checkers, stilts to walk on, ring... Read More →
Speakers
MI
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

2:00pm PDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the children about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see 7 musicians accompanying themselves on guitar, harmonica, mandolin, dulcimer, violin, bass guitar and banjo.  They will be performing old-time folk, children’s songs and songs about farm animals.  At this station, we encourage the students and adults to sing along, doing the ‘do-si-do” and “hokey pokey”, amongst others.  Sing and dance to the music of yesteryear.
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Goal: Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the children about some of the music played in earlier days. Musicians will be playing mandolins, violins, and other string instruments, as they sing. They will also show/explain how each instrument is played and why they were... Read More →
Artists
MA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behind house
  3

2:00pm PDT

One Room Country School House and Museum LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
School House & School Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s schools/classrooms, we hope to take them back in time and perhaps, more fully appreciate their advantages today. The Museum displays photos and memorabilia from One Room Country Schools in the Thumb and the State of Michigan. There is even a player piano that demonstrates songs played without hands!
Moderators
BP

Brian Peters

School House and School House Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

One Room Country School House & School House Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s... Read More →
S
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:00pm - 2:20pm PDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3

2:30pm PDT

2037 Theme Station: See The Changes - Then & Now LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Main Arena
On the Barn Loft, see/hear the history of the 100+ year old Thumb Octagon Barn, how it was built using the tools of old, THEN what tools would be used if built today! Nothing like seeing the Barn up-close and personal from several heights! Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) will tell the story of life in rural Michigan in the 1920’s, including 4-H, and the changes today using modern household equipment in the kitchen/house. Thumb Electric House displays the effect on life style before electricity and since. THEN & NOW farm/yard equipment will be side by side to show size differences and $$ increases. This is a ‘must see’ SOn the Barn Loft, see/hear the history of the 100+ year old Thumb Octagon Barn, how it was built using the tools of old, THEN what tools would be used if built today! Nothing like seeing the Barn up-close and personal from several heights! Michigan State University Extension (MSUE) will tell the story of life in rural Michigan in the 1920’s, including 4-H, and the changes today using modern household equipment in the kitchen/house. Thumb Electric House displays the effect on life style before electricity and since. THEN & NOW farm/yard equipment will be side by side to show size differences and $$ increases. This is a ‘must see’ Station for School Tours 2025!tation for School Tours 2025! Note: Theme Station requires walking up a flight of stairs.
Speakers
MS
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Main Arena Octagon Barn
  1

2:30pm PDT

Dairy Station & MSU Extension/Nutrition: LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn
The dairy display showcases how farmers have processed milk, both in the past and present. It includes a variety of old milking equipment, a mock milking area, and a milk house where milk was cooled and utensils were cleaned. There will also be hands-on demonstrations to show that milking cows doesn’t hurt them! Visitors will learn that cows eat corn and other grains grown and processed on the farm. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to see a beautifully restored milk wagon that was once used to deliver milk right to people's homes. A volunteer will be available to explain how and why these tools were used. Michigan State University Extension will share why milk is essential for good health! This station is fun for visitors of all ages!
Moderators
NA
Speakers
BI
Sponsors
ME
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

2:30pm PDT

Dulcimers and other Folk Music Instruments LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn
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 musicians will fill the air with the beautiful sound of these instruments being played. There may be some ‘hands on’ music making (depending on the size of the group and time available), plus a-sing-a-along with the musicians!
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 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

2:30pm PDT

EMBRYOLOGY (Chick/Egg Hatching) LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn
The students will see and hear the origin of all kinds of chicks. They will be shown the development of chicks in the egg and see the incubated egg hatch. They will learn why water is needed in the incubation and immediate post hatching, as well as the chicken’s entire life. At the conclusion of their visit the students will see the baby chicks in the brooder - drinking and feeding. Health concerns prevent the live hatching of eggs demonstration this year.
Moderators
MK
Speakers
RW
Sponsors
4A
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  1

2:30pm PDT

Grist Mill/Grinding Grains LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
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!
Moderators
RR
BM
Speakers
DR
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill Behind the School House/Ditch
  1

2:30pm PDT

Live Farm Animals LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn North side
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies will be there! There will be goats, horses - of all sizes - pigs, calves, rabbits, donkeys, plus!!! The students will be able to see, hear, touch (& SMELL!) a variety of live farm animals! What changes in what animals were at the Thumb Octagon Barn 1924 and 2025 - and why! - will be discussed. Students will also learn about a variety of foods/grains that are fed to the animals each day.
Moderators
LS

Lizzy Schumitsch

Live Farm Animals, Thresa Schumitsch Lizzy Schumitsch
‘Spring on the Farm’ means new life - baby farm animals! Several different kinds of animal babies will be there! There will be goats, horses - of all sizes - pigs, calves, rabbits, donkeys, plus!!! The students will be able to see, hear, touch (& SMELL!) a variety of live farm... Read More →
Speakers
TS
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn North side Octagon Barn
  1

2:30pm PDT

Nurses and Old Time Medicine LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Purdy Garage
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! - 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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Purdy Garage North side of house
  1

2:30pm PDT

Rope Making LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn Complex
Rope is made by twisting a number of fibers. Rope was one of the main tools on a farm 100+ years 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. Today rope/fiber is used in many different ways as a part of STEM activities and in today’s world. By twisting and weaving small ropes/fibers into larger, stronger ropes/fibers, more difficult/intricate work can be accomplished on the farm (and in life!)
Moderators
NP
Speakers
DM
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn Complex South side of Barn
  1

2:30pm PDT

Souvenirs LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Main Floor
Souvenirs are available for purchase with price ranging from 25¢ - $ 10.00. A detailed list of
Moderators
JC
Sponsors
TO
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Main Floor Octagon Barn
  1

2:30pm PDT

Tractor Ride around Octagon Barn Site LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Registration Area
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

Tractor Shuttle
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, BUT they are FREE! There are six shuttles at different locations: Barn, School, Sawmill, Grain Elevator, Munro Building... Read More →
Sponsors
TO
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Registration Area In front of Barn
  1

2:30pm PDT

Apple Cider pressing operation LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Cider Press Building
A Century old Plus, Jewel at the Thumb Octagon Barn, is the 1914 apple cider press! Apples will be squeezed and fresh apple cider will flow. You will help place apples on the conveyor.
Speakers
DS

David & Shiela Babcock

Apple Cider pressing operation
A Century old Plus, Jewel at the Thumb Octagon Barn, is the 1914 apple cider press!  Apples will be squeezed, and fresh apple cider will flow.  You will help place apples on the conveyor. 
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Cider Press Building Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

2:30pm PDT

Blacksmith Shop LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Blacksmith Shop
While visiting the blacksmith shop, students will see how metal is transformed into helpful and decorative items. The blacksmith will also demonstrate how the metal is heated in a forge - fueled by coal - until it turns orange in color. Then the metal will be hammered out into useful shapes for making agricultural tools - that would be used by farmers - shelf brackets, candle holders, hooks, and/or other tools that were used in earlier days - before electricity.
Speakers
avatar for Lew Martin

Lew Martin

Blacksmith Shop
While visiting the blacksmith shop, students will see how metal is transformed into helpful and decorative items. The blacksmith will also demonstrate how the metal is heated in a forge - fueled by coal - until it turns orange in color.  Then the metal will be hammered out into useful... Read More →
B
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Blacksmith Shop East of the ditch, behind the Barn.
  2

2:30pm PDT

Grain Elevator/Storing Grains LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
Students will learn what a grain elevator is, what it does, and the important role it plays in getting our food from the farm field to our dinner tables, plus to feed the farm animals. Students will have the opportunity to view working equipment, including mills -which clean and size the grain - vertical conveyors - called grain legs - and scales. They will be able to see and touch examples of different grains. The equipment is vintage, but the basic processes are still those used in today’s modern grain elevators. Examples of familiar food products found in our kitchen will be displayed to help students understand that the grains processed are found in many of the foods we eat and enjoy today.
Speakers
S
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
  2

2:30pm PDT

Live Bee display LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn
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

Steve Steeley

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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Octagon Barn Inside barn, east side.
  2

2:30pm PDT

Powerhouse: Vintage Cars & Garage: Vintage Memorabilia: LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Power house
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 then. Students will be able to see peat bricks that were used to run a steam engine and a generator used to bring electricity to the house and barn of Mr. & Mrs. Purdy. Students will also have the ability to see what wiring would have looked like. Forget the Romex wires used today, in 1930 we had a system known as the knob and tube.
Moderators
RH

Ron Hoffman

Grounds maintenance
Ron is the main contact person for help around the barn.  
Speakers
avatar for Byron Arnold

Byron Arnold

Powerhouse: Vintage Cars & Garage: 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 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Power house In front of Barn
  2

2:30pm PDT

Purdy House Tour LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Purdy Home
The James & Cora Purdy Home - is a "must see" companion to 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. Expect to see many “Then & Now” changes when you visit! 
Speakers
avatar for Tori Pine

Tori Pine

Purdy House Tour
The James & Cora Purdy Home - is a "must see" companion to 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... Read More →
Artists
SA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Purdy Home In front of the Barn
  2

2:30pm PDT

Saw Mill Demonstration and Museum LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Saw Mill Building
This Station tour begins at the Sawmill Museum. The students will see actual photos from the by-gone era, plus many of the actual tools that were used in the forests. Shown/discussed also will be how the logs were transported to the sawmill. There will be a short discussion of Michigan history and the part that lumbering, including major fires, played in development of rural Michigan. Following this year’s theme, ‘Then & Now - See The Changes!’ tools used to cut down trees 100+ years ago will be shown/compared to those used today. A demonstration of crosscut saws, broadaxes, vs. chain saws will be given. At the sawmill, presenters will demonstrate what the settlers had to go through ‘to put a roof over their heads.’ The students will also see the presenters make hand split shakes (shingles) for the roof. The importance of working together will be highlighted and demonstrated with hands-on activities. Lastly the huge sawmill will be fired up so the students can see/hear/smell/touch what it takes to provide the lumber used in building then and today. No matter what age - 5 to 55 - this presentation is educational - involving STEM learning and rural Michigan history - very interesting, & a GREAT Station to visit!
Moderators
avatar for Paul Deo

Paul Deo

Saw Mill and Museum Demonstration
This Station tour begins at the Sawmill Museum. The students will see actual photos from the by-gone era, plus many of the actual tools that were used in the forests. Shown/discussed also will be how the logs were transported to the sawmill. There will be a short discussion of Michigan... Read More →
Speakers
WL
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Saw Mill Building
  2

2:30pm PDT

Sugar Shack/Syrup Evaporator LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Sugar Shack
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/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... Read More →
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Sugar Shack Across ditch, behind barn.
  2

2:30pm PDT

Children's activity/tractors LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Tent north of the barn
This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys from the past. Some of the activities will be related to this years theme. The activities are fun and related activities used long ago, like checkers, stilts to walk on, ring toss, blowing bubbles, and a water tank filled with corn to play in! NO electronics here ‘Then or Now!’ The vintage tractors are also in this station ‘to sit on/drive.’ Farm tractors are part of our Grandparents’ heritage. Get the feel by sitting on these old tractors - making believe that your driving - for a few minutes; feel how hard the seats were for your Grandparents/Great-Grandparents to sit on from morning to night!
Moderators
MA

Mary Ann Cox

This station is an all ‘hands on’ for the kids! Things are set up to show the students work/games/toys from the past. Some of the activities will be related to this years theme. The activities are fun and related activities used long ago, like checkers, stilts to walk on, ring... Read More →
Speakers
MI
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Tent north of the barn Between barn and School house
  3

2:30pm PDT

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall
Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the children about some of the music played in earlier days. Participants will see 7 musicians accompanying themselves on guitar, harmonica, mandolin, dulcimer, violin, bass guitar and banjo.  They will be performing old-time folk, children’s songs and songs about farm animals.  At this station, we encourage the students and adults to sing along, doing the ‘do-si-do” and “hokey pokey”, amongst others.  Sing and dance to the music of yesteryear.
Speakers
avatar for Craig Sorenson

Craig Sorenson

Old Time Music Sing-A-Long
Goal: Our aim is to not only entertain but to educate the children about some of the music played in earlier days. Musicians will be playing mandolins, violins, and other string instruments, as they sing. They will also show/explain how each instrument is played and why they were... Read More →
Artists
MA
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
Munro Building, Lunch hall Center of property behind house
  3

2:30pm PDT

One Room Country School House and Museum LIMITED
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
School House & School Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s schools/classrooms, we hope to take them back in time and perhaps, more fully appreciate their advantages today. The Museum displays photos and memorabilia from One Room Country Schools in the Thumb and the State of Michigan. There is even a player piano that demonstrates songs played without hands!
Moderators
BP

Brian Peters

School House and School House Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Beth Brown

Beth Brown

One Room Country School House & School House Museum
The goal of the One Room Country Schoolhouse & Museum is to provide students with an ‘educational time travel’ to experience what school was like 100 years ago (think “Little House On The Prairie”). By demonstrating the differences between the One Room Country School and today’s... Read More →
S
Wednesday May 14, 2025 2:30pm - 2:50pm PDT
School House & School Museum North side of barn, parking area.
  3
 
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Wednesday, May 14
Thursday, May 15
Friday, May 16
Blacksmith Shop
Cider Press Building
Front yard or Monroe Bldg.
Grain Elevator (across ditch)
Grain Elevator/Grist Mill
Main Arena
Main Floor
Marriott Hotel
Munro Building, Lunch hall
Octagon Barn
Octagon Barn Complex
Octagon Barn North side
Power house
Purdy Garage
Purdy Home
Registration Area
Room 8 (Marriott Hotel)
Saw Mill Building
School House & School Museum
Sugar Shack
Tent north of the barn
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