History and Art Camp

The Greenwich Historical Society summer History and Art camp is held on the grounds of National Historic Landmark Bush-Holley Historic site and offers children in first through sixth grades a highly interactive two-week experience designed to utilize the artifacts and art in Bush-Holley House. The first week features a concentration in Colonial history, while the second focuses on art. Sessions are fun, challenging and age-appropriate. A field trip and Friday Parents’ Day are included each week.

The professional staff includes experienced museum educators and counselors who have a special interest in history and art. Reenactors, working artists and guest educators round out the team.

Camp hours are Monday to Friday from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm

Early American Life and The Art Colony Experience

Camp Session A:

Grades 4–6
July 8–12, July 15–19

In Week 1, campers will step back in time to the first years of the United States.  They will investigate real documents from the Revolutionary War, make apple cider, tour the Bush family rooms, draw maps and participate in a costumed debate. The program is enhanced by Colonial re-enactors and a field trip to Philipsburg Manor. A craft show and family reception will be held at the end of the week.

In Week 2, campers will enter the world of the famous Cos Cob Art Colony (1890-1920). They will make pinhole cameras, learn Japanese Sumi-e brushwork, sculpt coil pots, visit Weir Farm and work with professional artists. At the end of the week, family and friends are invited to an art show.

Camp Session B:

Grades 1–3 (4th graders, if preferred)
July 22–26, July 29–August 2

In Week 1, campers will learn what it was like to be a child in the late 1700s. They will write with quill pens, make apple cider, meet a storyteller, go on a "mapping expedition" and perform skits about Colonial life. The program is enhanced by Colonial re-enactors and a field trip to Philipsburg Manor. A craft show and family reception will be held at the end of the 

In Week 2, campers will enter the world of the famous Cos Cob Art Colony (1890-1920) and create their own impressionist-inspired artwork. They will paint outside, make viewfinders, learn Japanese watercolor techniques, and visit French Farm.  At the end of the week, family and friends are invited to an art show.

Tuition

$550 for two-week session
$350 for single week (if available)
Limited scholarships are available.

Registration

Priority registration for current Historical Society member children for two-week sessions begins March 1, 2013.
Public registration for two-week sessions begins March 29.
Public registration for single camp week begins March 29, 2013.

To register, complete one registration for each child (download form here) or request a form.

Send registration form with a non-refundable deposit of $100 per child ($50 for each additional sibling) to:
Camp Director
Greenwich Historical Society,
39 Strickland Road
Cos Cob, CT 06807

Please note:

Registrations are processed in the order they are received. Current Historical Society members have priority during the first two weeks of March. There is no guarantee that single-week spaces will be available by March 29. To ensure enrollment, please consider registering for a two-week session. Split sessions (enrollment in two non-consecutive weeks) can be arranged, if necessary. Registration is open until July 1, 2013. 

For more information, call 203-869-6899, Ext. 32.