The Plymouth Antiquarian Society (PAS) is currently accepting applications for free scholarships to attend a week-long children’s summer educational program at the 1677 Harlow Old Fort House, a historic Pilgrim-era homestead located at 119 Sandwich Street, Plymouth. The scholarship contest is open to children ages 8 through 12, and is funded by donations from Society members. The Antiquarian Society is a non-profit organization that owns and operates three historic house museums in Plymouth, including the 17th-century Harlow House.
Successful applicants will attend a week’s session of “Exploring Plymouth’s History” for children ages 8 to 12 at the Harlow House, held Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., July 14 through 18, 2025. Through this hands-on, inquiry-based summer program, young history enthusiasts will be introduced to the clothing, food, crafts, and customs of 17th century English colonists and later Plymouth residents. Participants will play period games and practice traditional crafts including weaving and candle-making. They will also tour all three of the Antiquarian Society’s historic houses. The program will conclude with a research presentation by the participants, who will each receive a membership in the Junior Antiquarian Society to encourage ongoing engagement with the local past.
Tuition for the camp is normally $150 per child for the general public and $125 for members of PAS but this fee will be waived for scholarship awardees.
To apply, children must write a brief description (50 to 100 words) explaining “what history means to them.” This might be something they have learned about or found interesting about the past, whether from family traditions, school, reading, or other sources. Essays should be submitted with an application form completed by their parent or guardian. Deadline for submissions is June 1. Applications will be evaluated by the quality and creativity of the written essay. Winning submissions will be announced in mid-June. For more information, or to receive application materials, contact the Plymouth Antiquarian Society at (508) 746-0012 or e-mail info@plymouthantiquarian.org.
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