By Christine Bryant
Staff Writer
Visitors will take a trip back in time during Pioneer Day, a popular annual event in Reynoldsburg that draws about 500 people each year eager to learn more about the pioneer era in this region.
The event, scheduled for noon to 4 p.m., on June 13, will take place at the Livingston House, 1792 Graham Road. The historic property was once the home of Alexander W. Livingston, founder of the Paragon variety of the tomato.
“We started this event – now in its ninth year – to bring a little history to Reynoldsburg,” said Susan Parks, founder of Pioneer Day. “It’s for children and adults to experience what was an easier way of life in the 1880s.”
The event will include several hands-on activities that demonstrate aspects of life from the pioneer era, including butter churning, rag doll making, washing laundry, quill pen writing and cooking apple butter.
Sponsored by Reynoldsburg Parks and Recreation and the Livingston House Society, Pioneer Day also will include demonstrations of cooking over a camp fire, live music from the late 19th century, and basket making.
“We will have a covered wagon and a small petting zoo with several animals on hand as well,” Parks said.
New this year on display will be clay pinch pots and wood treasure boxes, she said, as well as a bobbin lace expert. Bobbin lace is a lace textile constructed by braiding and twisting thread that is wound on wood bobbins.
Bring a camera as well, Parks said, because there will be several period clothing available to try on in a designated dress up area.
“It’s a fun event for the family, but we also have a lot of couples who enjoy coming, not just young folks,” Parks said.
The event is free and open to the public. Parking is available on site at the Livingston House.
The event is co-sponsored by the Livingston House Society and the City of Reynoldsburg Parks and Recreation Department.
