Step back in time and experience the sights, traditions, and stories of autumn centuries ago as the Pennsauken Historical Society hosts its October Open House at the historic Griffith Morgan Homestead on Sunday, Oct. 4, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.

This month’s theme, “Fall Harvest & Colonial Folklore,” will explore how families prepared their homes and harvests for the approaching winter — and some of the old stories, customs, and superstitions that were passed from one generation to the next.

Visitors can discover how autumn foods such as apples, corn, beans, squash, root vegetables, and herbs could be stored or preserved for the colder months ahead. A special apple preservation demonstration will show how apples could be sliced and dried, allowing families to enjoy part of the fall harvest long after fresh fruit was gone. But autumn wasn’t only a season of work. As daylight grew shorter and families gathered around the hearth, stories and folk beliefs were also part of everyday life. Visitors will have an opportunity to discover some of the folklore and superstitions associated with the season, including old traditions involving apples, harvests, weather, good luck, and everyday life. Children and families can enjoy hands-on activities inspired by the season.

Throughout the afternoon, visitors are invited to tour the Griffith Morgan Homestead and imagine an October nearly 250 years ago: apples drying for winter, herbs hanging near the hearth, the year’s harvest being stored away, and stories being shared as darkness arrived a little earlier each evening.

Come experience autumn the colonial way and discover how the changing seasons shaped the food, work, traditions, and stories of those who came before us.

This free, family-friendly event is open to the general public and parking is also free.  Memberships to Pennsauken Historical Society and volunteer opportunities are always available for you!  Donations to support our work in local history and preservation are always appreciated as well.

Griffith Morgan Homestead is located at 243 Griffith Morgan Lane off River Rd. between Delair and Rt. 73.

Visit the Griffith Morgan Homestead or Pennsauken Historical Society pages or the group “Pennsauken History Forum” on Facebook or e-mail pennsaukenhistoricalsociety@gmail.com for more details and directions.