Educational Programs
Education at Newlin Grist Mill: A History and Nature Preserve. Our comprehensive educational program fully leverages the site’s unique blend of history, traditional trades, and natural resources.
We offer a wide variety of interdisciplinary, hands-on tours, demonstrations, and programs adaptable to different curricula and age groups (preschool through high school and beyond).
Building upon Newlin’s existing resources—including hearth cooking, blacksmithing, archaeology, and traditional woodworking programs—the curriculum will emphasize experiential learning while demonstrating the continued relevance of traditional knowledge, craftsmanship, and problem-solving skills.
Menu-Based Program:
Choose from our menu of activities to select those that best meet their curriculum needs and field trip goals.
- Classes are divided into smaller groups of 10-12 students (each group must have at least one teacher or adult chaperone with them)
- Groups rotate between 40-to-45-minute activity stations
- Up to 3 activities are included in a basic program (approx. 2.5 to 3 hours) – larger groups may need to add additional activities
History & Trades
Participants will connect the site’s rich history and historic trades to contemporary life, developing meaningful connections between the past and present.
- Grist Mill Tour
- Millwright Shop Demonstration
- Blacksmith Shop Demonstration
- Hearth Cooking
- Historic Water System Walk (located throughout the preserve side)
- Archaeology Dig (Wednesday only)
Nature
Emphasis is placed on native plants, local ecosystems, environmental stewardship, and the evolving relationship between people and the natural landscape, both historically and today.
- Pond Habitat Exploration
- Stream Habitat Exploration
- Forest Habitat Exploration
- Meadow Habitat Exploration
- Newlin Nature Wildlife Walk
Stewardship
Help support Newlin Grist Mill’s natural spaces by becoming a steward of the land. We discuss the importance of caring for the natural environment and being part of a community where everyone contributes to making a better space. Our community-building and service projects help make Newlin a better place.
- Nature Conservation
- Historic Preservation
For smaller classes, after-school clubs, homeschool groups, and scout troops, a stand-alone program may be preferred. Newlin Grist Mill’s staff is happy to work with teachers and leaders to choose a program that best fits your needs!
Field Trip Pricing and Policy:
Field trips are available on weekdays, Tuesdays through Fridays, from late March through early June and September through early December.
The earliest arrival time is 9:00 AM. The latest departure time for all groups is 3:00 PM.Â
Please let us know about any time restrictions during the booking process.Â
Reservations should generally be made at least four weeks in advance to ensure date availability, with a deposit of $100.
Minimum Number of Student Participants: 10 (or the cost equivalent of that program)
Maximum Number of Student Participants: 160
Cost Per Person: $18
School group Stewardship programs: $10 per person
Chaperone Policy
1 free chaperone per 10 students. School staff (e.g., teachers, aides, nurses) are not included in the chaperone count.
Reduced Rates
If your school would benefit from a reduced rate, please indicate on the booking form your need. If funding is available, it will be on a first-come, first-served basis for all grade levels in Title 1 schools. Each school is limited to receiving financial assistance for one group per academic year.
Standards
All field trip programs adhere to the Pennsylvania State Academic Standards for history, geography, environment, and ecology.Â
If you have any questions, please contact our Education Director, rhammerman@newlingristmill.org
Contact:
