By CATHERINE LEGG / Community Columnist

The summer is full of surprises and adventures at the American Village. Daily programs that will entertain and inform children and adults surround the wonderful July 4th celebration.

Melanie Poole, of the Village, explained that families are invited to take a trip back to Revolutionary America this summer; to step into history and become part of the great American journey for independence and self-government.

Independence Day 1776 on July 4th promises to be larger and more exciting than ever. From 11:30 a.m. until just after dark when fireworks shower down on the Village, visitors will enjoy vignettes starring costumed historical interpreters, Revolutionary Army drills, and 18th century games.

The gates open on the 4th at 11 a.m. Admission is $5, but there is no charge for children four and under, veterans and active military. Visitors may bring a picnic or enjoy the concessions in the park.

Now, the celebration on the 4th may be the highlight of the Village summer activities, but other days there are exciting and can be the perfect time to take family or friends to enjoy the historic park at a more leisurely pace.

The Village opens daily at 10 a.m. with a schedule of historical vignettes every 30 minutes. Take a picnic lunch; you’ll want to stay all day.

Poole described a summer day at the Village, “Where else in Alabama could you spend a summer day marching with General George Washington’s Continental Army, asking Thomas Jefferson about life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, learning 18th century dances and games, and hearing Patrick Henry’s stirring ‘Give me liberty or give me death’ oration”?

Daily programs began at the Village early in June and will continue through August. Program dates are June 3-7; 10-14; 17-21; 24-28; July 1, 2; 8-12; 15-19; Aug. 5-9; 12-16; 19-23; 26-28.

Admission is $8.50 for ages 5 and up. Seniors are $8.

For more information, call 205-665-3535, extension 1031, or go to americanvillage.org.

 

Catherine Legg can be reached at clegg2@bellsouth.net.