Gibbs Farm is now closed to the public until May 2025. We are open for winter field trips and special programs only.

Five children stand on a porch and are dressed in 19th century women's clothing.

History Scholar Camps

Dive deep into Minnesota’s past in our camps for ages 10-13: Minnesota Time Travel Camp, Farm Survivor, and our single-day Victorian Ladies Camp.

Campers will bring a lunch each day.

Grade Recommendations: 4th-7th Completed.

Members of the Ramsey County Historical Society receive a 10% discount.

Minnesota Time Travel Camp

9am-3pm

Hold on to your hat! We are going time traveling to three different eras of Minnesota history.

Day one will highlight the past & present of Minnesota’s first people, the Dakota. Campers will learn about the seasonal life of Cloud Man’s village, explore the restored prairie, and be introduced to the Dakota language. On day two, campers will get an in depth look at early farm life in Minnesota while learning about the original Gibbs farmhouse, farm animals, and partaking in a competitive butter churning contest. Finally, day three will venture into the Victorian era with explorations into the rise in popularity of natural history, inventions, strict etiquette, embroidery, and end with a ‘garden party’ complete with croquet and tea.

Farm Survivor

9am-3pm

Do you have what it takes to survive as an 1800s farmhand?

Test your skills at the Gibbs Farm site where campers will compete in 19th century farm chores, household tasks, and one room-schoolhouse exercises.  Campers will get an in-depth look at 19th century farm life in Minnesota while learning about the original farmhouse, farm animals, and so much more!

 

Victorian Ladies

9am-3pm

Experience crafts, pastimes, and mannerisms that form the highpoints of the Victorian Era!

Campers will spend the day immersed in Victorian culture as the Gibbs family would have known it. They will learn about the Victorian language of flowers and fans, practice their sewing and drawing skills, and press flowers picked fresh from the prairie. Etiquette, curtsies, and other customary Victorian practices will be put to use at a tea party!

Please note that Victorian Ladies is open to all campers!

Common Camp Questions Answered