Field Trips and Tours

Our educational program offerings are carefully curated to engage students of all ages and backgrounds, providing hands-on learning experiences that spark curiosity, inspire creativity, and foster a deeper understanding of local history.

Field Trip Price: $10 per student.
Teachers and chaperones are free.
Grant funding is available to schools in Amesbury, Salisbury, Merrimac, and Newburyport.

Timeframe: 45 to 60 minutes (15-minute stations, rotating groups)

Contact us: sspalding@amesburycarriagemuseum.org

If you have made all the arrangements with the Museum and are paying online, please complete your payment here.

Field Trip themes

• Mill Worker Experience (All grades): Students will experience firsthand what it was like to work in a mill. Through engaging activities, they will learn the challenges these workers faced and will have the opportunity to create their own bobbins, just like the ones used in the mills of yesteryear!

• Labor Rights (Grades 7-12): Delve into the inspiring story of George Edwin McNeill, a national labor activist with deep ties to Amesbury. Students will discover McNeill's advocacy for workers' rights, fair wages, and safe working conditions. Through engaging activities, they will learn about McNeill's legacy and the impact of his work on labor rights movements. This offering provides an opportunity for students to reflect on the importance of activism and social justice.

• Alternative Energy Through Time (All grades): Explore the evolution of alternative energy from the 19th to the 20th century, starting with water power from the Powow River, which fueled the early mills in Amesbury. Students will then discover innovations in alternative energy, including the 20th century Bailey Electric car manufactured in Amesbury. Through hands-on activities and demonstrations, students will gain insight into the past, present, and future of sustainable energy solutions.

• Millyard Walking Tour (All grades): Embark on a guided walking tour through the historic millyard of Amesbury. Led by knowledgeable guides, students will explore the remnants of Amesbury's industrial heritage, including old mill buildings, dams, and other landmarks. Along the way, they will learn about the significance of the millyard in shaping the town's history and economy. This immersive experience offers students a chance to connect with the past and appreciate the rich industrial heritage of their community.

Curriculum Connection

Teachers are strongly encouraged to take an active role, connecting what the students are learning in class to the field trip theme. Please see the suggested reading lists below.

School Visits: Museum Objects Program

Can’t make the trip to the museum? We can bring the museum to you!

Our one-hour Museum Objects Program brings hands-on history to your classroom. Students learn about history by handling artifacts and asking questions.

Price: $100

Contact us: sspalding@amesburycarriagemuseum.org

If you have made all the arrangements with the Museum and are paying online, please complete your payment here.