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A Curriculum-based Education Program of Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site for Grade 5

Explore Saugus Iron Works to re-live the struggles and successes that shaped early colonial New England. Discover how 17th century life and work relates to today's world as you experience history where it happened.

The establishment of the iron works at Saugus brought together different groups of people including skilled iron workers, Puritans, indentured servants, and Native people. Through role-play and guided exploration, students meet the people at Saugus and learn how this diverse community struggled to work and live together as the iron works laid the foundation for America's modern industry.

 

Roleplaying as workers who load the charging hole at the top of the blast furnace with charcoal

In this program, students will:

• Analyze various perspectives of the people of the iron works during a role-playing scenario.  
• Examine historic artifacts and explore the reconstructed iron works to draw conclusions about life, education, and work in the 17th century.
• Learn the importance of tolerance and respect among people both historically and today.
• Engage in inspiring learning experiences to cultivate a sense of place and a personal connection to America's national parks.     

 

Teachers' comments from our pilot programs for Spring 2011:

• It was suitable for all types of learners... it provided hands-on opportunities, visuals, literature, auditory, etc. They all gave rave reviews when their reflected in their journals!
• Students really enjoyed the program. I think they'll remember many key components.
• We wrote about our experiences at the Ironworks on our return. Students loved the role play activity and were impressed by the exhibits in the museum. They especially loved the waterwheel and the giant hammer. Many were infatuated with the way iron is heated, bent and formed into bars then into tools for everyday use.
• The activities were varied so that when children began to tire of one thing there was a shift in activities. It kept their interest focused.
• Great Program... Well Done!!!

Development and piloting of this program was funded by the following sources:

• Grants received by the National Park Service through Parks As Classrooms.
• The Tom M. Leonard Partnership Grant for Education established by Essex National Heritage Commission.