BATH, Ohio — A team of 4-year-old milking shorthorn oxen moved from Maine to Hale Farm & Village in January. The oxen will make their public debut at the annual Maple Sugar Festival presented by Bob Evans Restaurants.
After a pancake breakfast, the ancient process of maple sugar production will be demonstrated.
Activities
Other event activities include exploring maple sugar production methods in the Sugar Camp, building a log cabin, making maple candy and craft and trade demonstrations, including glassblowing, blacksmithing, pottery and spinning and weaving.
Admission includes breakfast and all activities.
The milking shorthorn oxen team will be used much like they would have been in the 1800s: plowing and harrowing fields, pulling carts and hauling supplies.
Name the oxen
Visitors to Hale Farm & Village are invited to help name the new oxen. Historically appropriate names can be submitted via the Hale Farm & Village Facebook page or in person at the Maple Sugar Festival. The names will be announced April 1 on Facebook and on the Hale Farm & Village website.
The winner will receive a one-year family membership and will be invited to return to Hale Farm & Village to have their picture taken with the ox team.
The Maple Sugar Festival is two weekends, March 17-18, and 24-25 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Pancakes are served until 3 p.m. No reservations are necessary.
Cost
Admission is $15 adults; $10 children (age 3-12); $5 WRHS members. Group discounts are available. Discount coupons are available in Bob Evans restaurants. Maple Sugar programs are available for school children March 19-23. For more information call 330-666-3711 or visit www.halefarm.org.
