Overlooking the Ohio River in Williamstown, West Virginia, Henderson Hall is a beautifully preserved antebellum mansion that invites students to step back into the 19th century. This historic estate, with its original furnishings and artifacts spanning five generations of the Henderson family, offers a unique window into the region’s social and cultural history.
Field trips to Henderson Hall provide students with guided tours of the 29-room Italianate-style home, where they can explore ornate parlors, family bedrooms, and the grand dining hall. Docents share captivating stories about the Henderson family’s involvement in significant historical events, including the Civil War and the Underground Railroad.
Henderson Hall, a beautifully preserved antebellum mansion in Williamstown, West Virginia, offers an engaging and educational experience for students visiting this historic site. Field trips to Henderson Hall include guided tours of its impressive 29 rooms, featuring Italianate architecture and original furnishings. In addition to guided tours, Henderson Hall provides self-guided tour options for students.
Beyond its tours, Henderson Hall hosts various events throughout the year, including Civil War reenactments, which can further enrich the students’ learning experience. The site also features the Henderson Heritage Village, where visitors can witness demonstrations of traditional crafts like glassblowing, blacksmithing, and spinning. A colonial garden showcasing heirloom fruits and vegetables adds another layer of historical context, allowing students to understand the agricultural practices of the time.
Educational programs are tailored to align with curriculum standards in history, social studies, and art. Students can engage in activities that highlight architectural styles, examine primary source documents, and discuss the economic and political factors that shaped the region. The experience fosters critical analysis of historical narratives and encourages students to draw connections between the past and present.
Teachers receive access to educational materials such as lesson plans and discussion guides to enhance the learning experience. The expansive grounds also offer opportunities for outdoor learning activities and picnics.
