One of my favorite periods in American History is the Westward Expansion. I had so much fun teaching about the adventures, challenges, and courageous spirit these people had moving westward.  At the close of our westward expansion unit, we had a special day of pioneer activities. I titled it, “Pioneer Days.” It was one of my most highlighted days of the school year.  My desire was to have my students experience much of what pioneer children did many years ago, and to appreciate the resilient spirit of these brave men and women who built this country. 

Back in pioneer times, Spelling Bees were a community social event. It was considered entertainment and provided some competition. We started our Pioneer Day with a Spelling Bee using our week’s spelling list and weeks prior.

Spelling Bee

Use your current spelling list or review previous lists

The Chuck Wagon

Johnny Cakes

-Salted Pork (bacon)

-Cornbread

-maple syrup

-tin plates (disposable) can be found in most baking aisles 

Click here for the recipe on how to make a pioneer Johnny Cake  https://littlehouseontheprairie.com/little-house-on-the-prairie-johnny-cake-recipe/

Late morning, we had a pioneer breakfast. We ate the staple food items from that time: Johnny cakes, which is a cornmeal pancake cooked in bacon fat, bacon, cornbread and maple syrup. Though we didn’t eat of out actual tin plates, we used disposable instead. These can be found in most grocer baking aisles. 

Blind Man’s Bluff

A popular game during pioneer times. What are some common games that children like to play today? CandyLand, video games, right? Well, the game, “ Blind Man’s Bluff” was just as common to children back in pioneer times, as CandyLand and video games are to children today. 

Here’s how to play and materials you need:

• Blindfold You can use a bandana or scarf

First, choose a student to be the blindfolded player. Then the rest of the class forms a circle around the blindfolded player keeping the blinded player in the center of thecircle. The non – blindfolded players clap to signal walking around the blindfolded player. Silently, the teacher calls a non-blind folded player forward to spin the blindfolded player around several times within the circle and then stops and rejoins the circle. The players call out to the blind man while dodging away. The blindfolded player is trying to tag someone who is calling out. If tagged, that player is now it and the begins again.

Dress Up – Students we’re encouraged to dress up as a pioneer. Boys came dressed in black/ navy slacks and plaid shirts. Girls were encouraged to wear either a floral printed dress, or either a black or navy blue skirt and blouse with a bonnet. The bonnet was a staple clothing item at this time. It was used to protect their skin from the sun. Some children got creative and made their own. 

You can find them at most costume shops, and gift and craft shops.