Kids engaging in pioneer chores like laundry at Pioneer Farm Museum, Eatonville, Washington
Journey back in time to the 1880s and immerse yourself in the realities of homesteading life at the Pioneer Farm Museum in Washington State. This living history museum, originally established as a homestead in 1887, provides an engaging and hands-on experience for visitors of all ages, including unique overnight programs.
Experience Pioneer Life
Embark on a captivating farm tour where children can actively participate in daily chores that were typical for pioneer children. Within the interactive log activity cabin, young visitors can try their hand at grinding grains to make flour, churning cream into butter, scrubbing laundry using traditional methods, and carding wool – all providing a tangible glimpse into a simpler era. For those seeking a touch of historical immersion, the museum offers opportunities to dress up in pioneer clothing and even experience getting hair curled with an antique curling iron or a simulated shave with a dulled straight razor, offering memorable photo opportunities and a deeper connection to the past.
Explore Ohop Indian Village
Visitors learning target shooting with bow and arrow at Ohop Indian Village, part of Pioneer Farm Museum experience
Extend your historical exploration with a 90-minute guided tour of the Ohop Indian Village, where you’ll learn about the traditions and seasonal activities of the native people who inhabited this land. The village showcases different aspects of Coast Salish life depending on the season.
Seasonal Village Activities
During the Spring and Summer Village experience, visitors can test their skills with target shooting using a bow and arrow, engage in a fun “match animals” game to learn about local wildlife, and discover the ancient technique of fire-starting using a bow drill. As the seasons change, the Fall Fishing Village offers a chance to craft a slate arrowhead, learn leather braiding techniques, try pecking on a stone bowl, participate in canoe chipping demonstrations, play the plank drum, and enjoy target practice games relevant to hunting and fishing skills. Finally, the Winter Home introduces visitors to traditional native clothing, provides an opportunity to try Salish loom weaving, learn to grind using a stone bowl, create a take-home bracelet, and even play a game of Indian basketball. Across all seasons, the Ohop Indian Village highlights how the Coast Salish people used games to educate their children, fostering essential skills in learning, listening, and respecting their natural environment.
Plan Your Visit
Pioneer Farm Museum and Ohop Indian Village are located just north of Eatonville and are seasonally open on weekends from mid-March to mid-June, and again from after Labor Day until the day before Thanksgiving. For an extended experience, the museum is open daily throughout the summer months.
For more detailed information, visit the Website.
Address: 7716 Ohop Valley Road E., Eatonville, WA 98328
