Take the “Revolutionary Road” this spring break

The Huntington Historical Society just might have  the answer for parents looking to immerse their children in an innovative educational experience over spring break which begins on March 29.

On Wednesday, March 31, under the auspices of the Historical Society, professional Revolutionary War re-enactor Tom Stolfi will present two programs, "A Common Foot Soldier in General Washington's Continental Army"  and "A Revolutionary War Field Doctor." Each program will last approximately one hour.

Stolfi will be dressed the part in a cocked hat, weskit and breeches. He will share an incredible wealth of information about this important era in American history, said Wendy Andersen, Director of Education, adding that, as part of his lecture-demonstration, children get a fascinating glimpse into life of common foot soldiers, and what they needed to do to survive.

Stolfi, who has been doing re-enactments for 20 years, will show children woolen coats, linen breeches, shirts and more from his extensive collection of authentic reproduction uniforms which he describes as museum quality. Children will also get a look at the kind of canteen, and cooking utensils commonly used by foot soldiers, including wooden dishes, forks, knives and three legged cooking pots. Foot soldiers also carried sewing kits in their knapsacks which they used to make any needed repairs, Stolfi indicated.

In addition, Stolfi will show participants flint-lock muskets and the tools that soldiers used to clean them, bayonets and swords.

 For his other lecture/demonstration, Stofli will assume the role of a Revolutionary War field doctor and talk about battlefield surgery, which then was in its infancy in terms of sterile technique and instrumentation. Revolutionary War field doctors carried both dental and surgical tools, Stofli said. Tooth keys were used to remove teeth and "bone swords" were used in amputations, many of which were performed in 45 seconds. Horsehair was boiled and used to suture wounds.

The children will also receive a toy musket and have the opportunity to participate in a musket drill.

"They will learn to load the musket, aim and fire as part of a drill reenactment. It is make-believe, of course, but quite entertaining," Andersen said, adding that the children will keep the musket as a parting gift and a souvenir of their experience.

The program, which runs from 1 to 3 pm is open to 7 to 13-year-olds and will take place at the Conklin Barn, located at 2 High Street, Huntington. The 150-year-old wooden structure is one of the few remaining hand-built shelters from the early days of the Long Island settlers, making it the perfect place for this educational step back in time. Refreshments will be served.

The cost of the program is $10 per child, and $5 for parents who wish to partake of the experience along with their offspring. Space is limited. To reserve a spot, call the historical society at 631-427-7045, ext. 401. To learn more about the educational programs offered by the Huntington Historical Society or their Passport to the Past summer program, visit

www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org

.