Fourth grade students at Westchester Day School recently took part in a powerful, hands-on learning experience during a full-day visit to Philipsburg Manor in Sleepy Hollow. The immersive field trip brought history to life as students stepped back into the 18th century to explore the workings of a colonial estate.

Students toured the historic gristmill and witnessed how water power was used to grind grain into flour. They examined authentic tools from the colonial period and visited the Manor House, where they explored period artifacts and gained deeper insight into the lives of those who lived and labored on the property—including enslaved individuals whose stories are essential to understanding the estate’s history.

Through interactive workshops, students engaged with colonial crafts, trying their hand at carding wool, writing with quill pens and even churning butter. The experience sparked meaningful conversations and allowed students to better connect with the people and practices of early American life.

At WDS, learning comes alive—and this trip reminded students that understanding history means stepping into the shoes of those who came before us.