As fall arrives at Historic Hanna’s Town, we are planning our annual fall and Halloween programs to get you in the autumnal spirit. Join us for historical demonstrations, reenactments, and family-friendly activities during daylight hours on Fall Family Day, or wait until nightfall to explore history by candlelight on a Jack-o’-Lantern Tour.

Fall Family Day – Saturday, October 30

Fall Family Day is a fun celebration of fall and the Halloween season featuring 18th century historic demonstrations and outdoor activities, great for all ages. Members of Proctor’s Militia, I.B.W.C.P., will be camped at Historic Hanna’s Town and sharing the history of the Westmoreland County militia, established at Hanna’s Town in 1775, and life for settlers on the Pennsylvania frontier. Proctor’s Militia will demonstrate 18th century military drills tentatively at 1:00 p.m. (weather depending). Others will be presenting demonstrations of historic textiles and blacksmithing.

Children and families can enjoy treat bags, storytimes, and pumpkin decorating at the pavilion. Dressing up in costume to trick-or-treat around Hanna’s Town is encouraged! Take a self-guided history walk along one of our short trails to learn about the history of Halloween. Also join us for guided tour to the historic cemeteries on the property around 1:30 p.m., following the militia drills.

The Westmoreland History Shop will feature seasonal décor, handmade ceramics, books for adults and children, vintage toys and games, and many other special gifts and keepsakes.

The program includes admission to Penn’s Woods: Plenty for the Use of Man, new exhibit at the Westmoreland History Education Center.

PLAN YOUR VISIT: Enjoy all activities with our regular admission price to Historic Hanna’s Town. Free for Westmoreland Historical Society members and children 5 and under; $8 for adults, $6 for seniors and students through grade 12.

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Jack-o’-Lantern Tours – Friday, October 29 & Saturday, October 30

Have fun with fears and folklore of the 18th century at the Jack-o’-Lantern Tours. This special evening tour of Historic Hanna’s Town looks at the Scots-Irish origins of Halloween and what frightened people in the 18th century.

Learn about superstitions of Westmoreland County’s Scots-Irish settlers regarding the Celtic new year, Samhain, or Hallowe’en. Many of these backcountry residents were rooted in the “old ways,” where folklore, magic, and the belief in witchcraft were embedded in their culture. This is not a ghost tour, but in the flickering candlelight, we may see shadows of things that once were, and hear echoes from the past.

PLAN YOUR VISIT: Tours begin at 6:00, 6:30, and 7:00 p.m. on Friday, October 29 and Saturday, October 30. Space is limited and advanced registration required. Please call 724-836-1800 x210 to register. $10 for Westmoreland Historical Society members, $12 for nonmembers.

You can visit us at Historic Hanna’s Town at 809 Forbes Trail Road, Greensburg, PA 15601.