From its 18th century roots as a center of iron industry to its 19th century heritage as a glassmaking center, Batsto Village hummed with activity as the residents went about the business of their lives in the country. Those days are long gone, but the Country Living Fair preserves many of the crafts and activities that helped shape the Pinelands culture. And judging from the crowds that turn out for it each year, lots of folks are still interested in the “old ways” of doing things.
The focal points of the Fair are the crafts people who ply their trades the way it was done centuries ago. Each year, the crafts on display are a little different, but chances are you’ll see quilt makers, candle-making, buck skinning and all kinds of other activities that will make you really appreciate all your automatic appliances. And although many people come for the crafts, they stay for all the other goings-on.
Take a self-guided tour through many of the historic buildings within Batsto Village, which include a gristmill, saw mill, blacksmith, general store and a wheelwright, among others. Old-fashioned cars and farm equipment work vehicles are also usually on display for the Fair and it is always fun to compare them to the family mini-van.
When hunger hits, the local fire companies and Boy Scouts will come to the rescue with their annual fund-raiser, selling hot dogs, burgers and other snack foods to get you through the day. You get to eat and help a worth cause at the same time. What a great idea!