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"Ride the Wind" at Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site  Last spring the first ever curriculum-based education program was presented at Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site. Education coordinator Patrice Ferrell worked with Ranger (ret.) Jim Bell and Jewel Turpin, History Education Coordinator for Richmond City Schools, to create two programs, one for grades one through three and another for fourth and fifth graders. The first one teaches children about "Mrs. Walker's Neighborhood." As Patrice explained, "the curriculum for those grades includes the importance of neighborhoods and communities and Mrs. Walker was a leader in the Jackson Ward community." The program for the older grades, called "Ride the Wind", focuses on African American history and includes Mrs. Walker's role in the early 20th century Civil Rights Movement.
When the program began last spring, its availability was limited to Tuesdays, so it would not interfere with the regular interpretive programs that at the time were offered Wednesday through Sunday. With increased interest in the programs, additional interpretive staff, and a new schedule (Monday through Saturday., 9:00 to 5:00), we hope to be able to make them available on any week day. If you are a teacher and have an interest in bringing your class to attend either of the Maggie l. Walker National Historic Site children's programs, please call (804) 771-2017. Reservations are required for these programs. |
