Ulster American Folk Park

The Senior Rooms Famine topic came to life when they were transported back to a time of hunger, poverty and emigration through an interactive workshop that explored what life was like in rural Ireland at the time of the Famine. The children enjoyed their role play as the life of an migrant as they gathered their bundles and made their way to the departing ship with the hope of a new and prosperous life in a new world. The workshop was very interactive and the children had a fantastic day. 

The pupils helped Mrs. Melon to make pancakes and cook them over the open fire. It was  important to keep the fire going so the pupils brought in turf from the shed to fill the basket by the hearth. There were lots of chores to keep little hands busy, such as churning the butter, collecting the eggs and cleaning the horses' tack. When all the work was done, everyone enjoyed some well deserved delicious pancakes served by Mrs. Melon. 
The pupils also experienced what life was like for a child living in rural Ireland long ago.   After taking care of all their farmyard chores, they rolled up their sleeves to help out with the weekly wash day using a wash board and lifebuoy soap.
Then it was off to the schoolhouse where the teacher explained what school life was like for children in the past. Rote learning and harsh punishments were the order of the day. Maybe school nowadays isn't so bad after all!