Old meets new at Brocksden Country School Museum

Brigette Clark-Charmichael of the Stratford Public Library’s MakerSpace On The Move took a stroll down memory lane during the Old Meets New program at Brocksden Country School Museum on Saturday. Diane Danen photo

By Diane Danen

History and technology came together at Brocksden Country School Museum on June 6 as the museum partnered with the Stratford Public Library to present Old Meets New.

Held in the historic, one-room schoolhouse, the museum welcomed the Stratford Public Library’s MakerSpace On The Move, giving visitors an opportunity to explore modern technology in a heritage setting. Activities included a 3D-printing demonstration, hands-on building projects and traditional games and toys.

Brigette Clark-Charmichael of the Stratford Public Library’s MakerSpace On The Move discovered a class photo and her signature in the museum’s guest book from 1996. As a Grade 6 student at Hamlet Public School in Stratford, Clark-Charmichael had participated in the museum’s 1910 school day program. Nearly three decades later, she returned to the schoolhouse in a very different role, helping a new generation of visitors learn and create.

Participants Beth DeWeerd, nine, and John DeWeerd, 11, teamed up with Eric Ball of MakerSpace On The Move to build miniature sailboats. Once completed, the boats were put to the test in a water table set up outdoors. Visitors also enjoyed traditional outdoor activities including walking on stilts and playing ring toss on the lawn.

A 3D printer was onsite creating custom keychains for the museum. Another Old Meets New activity featured small 3D-printed cars and motorcycles fitted with marble wheels, offering a creative new use for a classic toy.

Visitors who enjoyed the technology at the Old Meets New program can explore even more at the Stratford Public Library’s MakerSpace. The space features a 3D printer, vinyl cutter, button maker and digital design stations. Community members are welcome to drop in during open lab hours to learn new skills, create projects and explore new technology. Visit the Stratford Public Library website for more information.

The Brocksden Country School Museum has a full schedule of summer programming ahead. Everyone is invited to the Teddy Bear Picnic on June 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visitors are encouraged to bring their teddy bears and a snack while enjoying a scavenger hunt, Grandma’s Storytime and displays of toys from the past.

Other upcoming events at Brocksden Country School Museum include School Stage Days on July 4, Train Day on July 11 and a Make-and-Take Craft Day on Aug. 8. One of the highlights of the summer will take place on Aug. 29 when a blacksmith will be onsite offering visitors a chance to see traditional metalworking skills in action.

For more information about these events visit brocksden.ca or contact Jessie Campbell at brocksdenschool@gmail.com.