Activities will abound on each level of the 27-room hotel. Costumed staff will greet visitors in the historic tap room and shed light on the origins of Washington's Birthday, an American holiday originally established in 1885 in recognition of President George Washington. It was unofficially observed for most of the 1800s. The ladies' parlor will be graced with a display of historic clothing, representative of the types of clothing men, women and children would have worn to winter festivities in the mid-19th century.
In a second floor bedroom suite, visitors will have the opportunity to play parlor games and learn the names of our nation's first sixteen presidents.
In the third-floor ballroom, as local musicians Matt Harvey and Carol Jensen perform live period music, participants will have the opportunity to learn popular dance steps of the 1850s. During this interactive dance experience, an instructor will call the movements for dancers as well as share the history of each dance.
The delightful aroma of Washington cake will waft out from the hotel's kitchens and entice guests to these culinary spaces where they'll learn about the longstanding association of Washington cake with Washington's birthday, as well get to sample it.
The festivities continue in the new Wade House Visitor Center and Wesley W. Jung Carriage Museum, where children and adults alike can create a framed silhouette and take this centuries-old craft home as a keepsake.
Throughout the day, food and beverages will be available at the Butternut Café.
Visitors will begin the special experience at the new Wade House Visitor Center and Wesley W. Jung Carriage Museum located at W7965 State Highway 23. Admission is as follows: adults $7; students/seniors $6; children (5-17) $3.50; family (up to two adults and two or more dependent children 5-17) - $19.
The Wade House historic site is one of 12 Wisconsin Historical Society historic sites and museums. For more information, please call 920-526-3271 or visit www.wadehouse.org
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