Museum Overnight

Space is still available for the “Ike at Night” Museum Overnight which will be held Friday, September 25, at the Eisenhower National Historic Site. Local fifth and sixth grade students are invited to register for this program sponsored by the National Park Service and the Gettysburg Recreation Department. The activities focus on the theme “I Like Ike” - Eisenhower’s presidential campaign slogan in 1952.

Activities include a scavenger hunt in the Eisenhower home and a putting contest on Eisenhower’s putting green. Eisenhower’s golf caddie, Art Kennell, will tell stories about why he liked Ike. Eisenhower was also very popular with soldiers during World War II. Two living historians portraying 101 st Airborne paratroopers will share their experiences with the students. Students will spend time designing their own Eisenhower campaign buttons.

Students will have a chance to learn about the visits of world leaders during a special tour of the cattle show barn where Eisenhower took all his important visitors. After these activities and a snack, students will change for bed and play board games or watch 1950s television shows to unwind. Students will sleep in the Eisenhower Reception Center with college students as chaperones. Saturday morning after dressing and having a light breakfast, students will participate in a flag raising ceremony.

Parents must pick students up by 8:00 a.m. Saturday morning. Students also receive a token remembrance of their Ike at Night experience. There is a $10 fee for the overnight. Checks should be made payable to the Gettysburg Recreation Department. To reserve a space for your student, call the recreation department at 717 334-2028.