LEWISTON – Montello fifth-graders from Jim Bazinet’s class and Mike Martel’s class recently visited Fort Western in Augusta. The students explored the fort, learning about life in the 1800s.

They took part in the fort’s hands-on activities in “A Day in the Life of the Howard Family.” The students participated in kitchen chores, making toast in the fireplace; weaved cloth; worked with wood, making hand-hewn shingles; and part in social games of the time period.

The students were greeted and instructed by museum docents dressed in period clothing. Martel said, “The docents were remarkable in discussing the issues of the time and daily duties of the Howard family.”

After returning to school, students discussed the challenges of living at the fort during the 1800s. The importance of self-sufficiency, daily chores and community projects were discussed.