SRU’s Old Stone House to host open house May 28
May 23, 2016
SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. - Built as a stagecoach stop and tavern for travelers of the newly constructed Pittsburgh to Erie Pike in the early 19th century, Slippery Rock University's Old Stone House may seem a bit out of place nestled along the modern scenery that currently hems its borders.
According to Aaron Cowan, an SRU associate professor of history and curator of the historic inn and museum, he wouldn't have it any other way.
"The Old Stone House exists to collect and preserve the history of Slippery Rock and the surrounding area and interpret that history through exhibits and educational programming," said Cowan. "We proudly serve the community as an educational touchstone of local history."
That history will come to life for a 21st century crowd when the historic inn and museum hosts a community open house May 28 from 2-6 p.m.
"We're excited to launch our 2016 calendar with this event," Cowan said. "We hope everyone will take advantage of it."
From open-hearth cooking to butter churning and candle dipping, visitors will experience all that the Stone House had to offer during the its heyday.
Additional activities include: live music from various historical periods; firing and drill demonstrations by Civil War reenactors from the 63rd Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry; and Brady Crytzer, a 2010 SRU graduate with a master's degree in history, will present "The People of Empire: Indians and Colonists on the Pennsylvania Frontier".
"This is the kind of event that is good for the whole family," said Cowan. "There is a lot of activity, a lot of fun and a lot of learning. It's a great way for (the Stone House) to open the season and share all we have with the community."
Admission is free, but a suggested donation of $3 per person will be accepted.
The Stone House, which is owned and operated by SRU, is located at the intersection of routes 8, 258 and 173, just south of Slippery Rock.
For further information, visit: http://www.oldstonehousepa.org, or contact Cowan at: 724.738.2409.
MEDIA CONTACT: Maizee Zaccone | 724.738.2091 | mxz1016@sru.edu