This primary source-based workshop explores the many ways our communities were involved in the Revolutionary War. A mix of presentation, primary source analysis using C3 concepts, hands-on activities (make an ashcake over a fire!), and some time for local research will get you started with some new ideas to connect this important historical event to your town. We will also highlight questions and decisions people in our towns had to make that relate directly to issues we face today.
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Norwich Historical Society, 277 Main Street, Norwich, VT
Registration Fee: $200
Presenters:
Sarah Rooker, Director, Flow of History
Jennifer Boeri-Boyce, Teacher, Hartford Middle School
Israel Provancha, Teacher, Hartford High School; VT 250th Committee
AGENDA
- Background Talk: Overview of the Upper Valley during the American Revolution
- Activities embedded in the overview include: historical thinking routines, using maps as evidence, close reading, and strengthening understandings of historical context and corroboration
- Lunch
- Hands-On Activities: Life of the common soldier exploring food, clothing, and other aspects of soldier life
- Model Inquiry: How were Hartford soldiers and their families involved in the Revolution
- Local Research: How to find landmarks, soldiers, and stories in your town
Questions we will consider:
- How would you react if someone from a different race, class, or culture came up suddenly? How do you know if friend or foe when you have grown up with the stereotype of foe?
- Would you turn in your neighbor if s/he has a different political view? How do you know who is right or wrong?
- How could you protect your family and how would you determine if they were safe or not as the situation around you feels like it is heating up?
- When does a political action become something you must stand up to no matter how it could impact you or your family?