Douglas Co. Historical Society
We believe that learning about history can be FUN! Walk into the Omaha of the 1880s, and experience frontier military history! Enjoy an informative tour through the General Crook House, which was built as “Quarters One” in 1879 for the Commander of the Department of the Platte. This award-winning restoration is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is furnished in the Victorian style of the late 1800s. Learn about Fort Omaha, which was established in 1868 and has been preserved as a National Register District. You will receive a brochure with more information on the Crook House and its Victorian Heirloom Garden, the only one of its kind in the region, also typical of the 1880s.
Your troop visit may be just the beginning of your interest in history. You may wish to return for Garden Walks and special programs, changing exhibits, interesting talks, or to do research on your family or neighborhood.
Taste of the Past: Baking from Scratch
During Part I, each student will learn how cooking and baking was accomplished 100 years ago without the prepared, processed and frozen foods of today. Glimpse life in the late 1800s during a tour of the Crook House. Part II is a hands-on experience, as each girl dons her own apron and makes biscuits from scratch. Enjoy this taste of the past, topped with honey butter, sorghum or molasses.
Who: Brownies
Time: 2 ½ to 3 hours.
Capacity: Minimum 5, Maximum 9.
Recognition: Brownie Try-It-Listening to the Past
Try-On-History
A favorite for third grade Brownies and Juniors. A fun learning activity featuring historic costumes! Earn the Crook House Try-On-History Patch.
During Part I, students will eavesdrop on the past, learning about attitudes, customs and activities for children in the 1800s, who grew up without electricity, TV, CD players, computers and snack foods! Experience a hands-on tour of the historic Crook House. During Part II, the girls “try on” examples of girls’ and women’s clothes from 1840 to 1900.
These historic dresses cannot be put on over outer clothing. If they feel more comfortable, girls may wish to wear leotards, swimsuits or a lower-cut camisole to put a dress over them, however these may show in photos of girls in low cut dresses. Girls will have privacy to change. Leaders are to assist girls. Bring cameras and film for a memorable photograph, because the young ladies become enchanting!
Who: Third grade Brownies and Juniors
Time: 3½ to 4 hours.
Capacity: Minimum 6 (small troops may combine).
Recognition: Brownie Try-It-Listening to the Past; Junior Badges-My Heritage and Folk Arts
Quilts: Every Woman’s Art
Here students tour the Crook House, learn about life in the 1800s and then examine the history and construction of quilts and their importance in women’s lives. Discover the stories and patterns that inspired patchwork quilts. Create your own quilt design with paper artwork.
Who: Juniors
Time: 3½ to 4 hours.
Capacity: Minimum 6 (small troops may combine).
Recognition: Juniors Badges-Yarn and Fabric Arts, Crook House Patch.
Information for All Programs
When: By prior arrangement for after school, weekends, school holidays. For best results, select your desired date well in advance due to frequent visitor and group use of the Crook House.
Cost: $9.50, which includes supplies, drink and snack. Designated leaders (one per every four girls) are admitted free; visiting parents or others will be required to pay the usual admission/donation; adults – $5 ($6 Nov. 9th – Dec. 31st), $4 students, $3 ages 6-11).
Where: 5730 N 30th St # 11B, Omaha. Directions: North Expressway (Hwy 75) from I-480 and downtown, continue north on 30th Street (Hwy 75). At the third traffic light, enter Fort Omaha, now the campus of Metropolitan Community College, at 30th and Fort Streets. Or, from I-680, take Exit 13 south on 30th Street to Fort Street. The campus is patrolled by Campus Security 24 hours a day. The Crook House is handicapped accessible. There is ample parking.
Registration: Call 402.455.9990. Advance registration is required and must be received at least two weeks before the event. A $40 deposit is required upon reservation. After speaking with the Office Manager at the Historical Society, you will be contacted by your instructor, who will confirm your date and time and will make available a detailed lesson plan.
Chaperones: Follow Safety-Wise guidelines.
Notes: We encourage you to record this very special visit, using the lovely settings within the house, garden or by the statue of General Crook. Girls will treasure especially their photograph in historic costumes.