Many know the beginning to the old proverb, “all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.”
In Norwich and around the world on Saturday, Sept. 26, many will become less like “Jack,” the dull boy in the 17th-century proverb.
The Chenango County Historical Society will be bringing a global day of play to Norwich, starting at 10 a.m. at Ward School No. 2 at 45 Rexford St., and adding a frontier twist with “One World: Worldwide Day of Play.” There is no admission, but free will donations are welcomed.
A feature event opens at 10:30 a.m. with a “very prairie” party, featuring a live, interactive musical performance by Jenni Larchar, including music and fun activities for all ages inspired by the “Little House on the Prairie” series. Larchar is a well-known voice behind “Jenni’s Music” of Sherburne, as well as for interactive preschool programs, symphonious vocal performances, personalized music lessons and a vast performance repertoire.
The games begin at 11:30 a.m., following the performance and until closing at 4 p.m. These will be vintage games, according to Chenango County Historical Society Executive Director Jessica Moquin, “which require no electronics or plugs. Any opportunity to be able to focus on our history and our heritage, especially through play, getting families outside, and interactivity away from the screens helps us reconnect with our ancestors and how they might have entertained themselves.”
Worldwide Day of Play has been around since the 1990s, Moquin said, started by the Nickelodeon cable television channel, which ironically encouraged kids and families to get away from television screens and, in the modern era, from phones and tablets among other electronic devices. CCHS is part of a national network of more than 1,500 museums participating in Museums for All, a national access initiative managed by the Association of Children’s Museums.
In addition to the Day of Play, the day is in the middle of a weekend of activities in communities across the country called “We Want More History.” This national initiative features community organizations such as historic sites, libraries, museums and park, all designed to build community engagement, strengthen civic health and showcase the essential role of history in public life.
CCHS also belongs to the organization Blue Star Museums, Moquin said, which encourage active military families and veterans to explore their local museums. Blue Star Museums and Blue Star Families also collaborate for a program called Welcome Week, which kicks off on Saturday, Sept. 26.
Come play. Don’t be like Jack. For more information, visit ChenangoHistorical.org