History came to life this weekend at The National Apple Museum in Biglerville with a Civil War encampment as part of the community’s America 250 celebrations. Visitors stepped back in time and enjoy a variety of hands-on activities and demonstrations, including firearm demonstrations, candle making, a scavenger hunt, and more.
Children had the opportunity to make a traditional church pew doll. It’s a simple, quiet craft that is easy for children to assemble and then bring with them to play with at church. Visitors also viewed a patriotic quilt display featuring dozens of stunning quilts made by Nancy Larsado of Gettysburg and her friends. Larsado, a member of the Gettysburg Chapter of the DAR, volunteered her time to share the patriotic collection with visitors. Larsado explained, “I made approximately 85% of the quilts on display while my friends made the remainder.”
While the event celebrates local history, museum volunteer Cindy Heller reminds the community of the ongoing need to preserve the museum itself. “The museum’s roof needs approximately $45,000 in repairs to replace the ridge cap. A long-range goal is to add climate control to protect the museum’s archives.”
Those interested in supporting the National Apple Museum’s restoration projects can mail a donation to 154 W. Hanover St., Biglerville, PA 17307, or donate through the museum’s nonprofit account on Stripe.
For history talks and more, you can visit the encampment through tomorrow, September 27, 2026.
This event concluded Saturday at 4 PM due to the weather. The event will not take place Sunday.