The Latest
March 28, 2024

Where Every Family Matters

Oaklands Mansion’s New Backpack Program

There's a new, interactive way to gather even more information about the history of Oaklands Mansion and more β€” and together as a family.

Oaklands Mansion’s new backpack program began at the beginning of July and has been a hit with the kids ever since. Local Girl Scout Ambassador Chloe Wakham of Troop #2864 came up with the program as part of her Gold Award Take Action Project. Each backpack includes games, crafts, information cards about life for kids in the 1850s and worksheets, all built to learn more about the history of Oaklands and its impact within the community. Wakham explains that the backpacks are inspired by the National Parks Service’s Junior Ranger program and are appropriate for ages 3 – 13. It adds to the overall learning experience you get from a visit at the historic home.

Check out a backpack in the museum gift shop and complete the included activities. It's something that you can do together as a family, too. Once you finish, return the backpack and receive a prize. This program is free and does not require admission to the mansion as all games and activities are focused on the grounds outside.

More About Oaklands Mansion

The grand Oaklands Mansion was the center of a 1,500-acre plantation and one of the most elegant homes in Rutherford County. Since that time, Oaklands has seen dramatic changes. Following the Civil War, it deteriorated from a majestic mansion to virtual ruins and, in the 1950’s, its very existence was threatened. The mansion was brought back from the brink of destruction, saved from the wrecking ball when a group of concerned ladies created Oaklands Association in 1959. Since then, the Association has worked tirelessly to restore Oaklands to its original splendor and preserve its unique history.

 

About the Author