Community Learning

Presented by Roger Swartz, Author, Educator & Historian and Deborah ‘Turtle’ Swartz, Native American Living Historian & Authority An illustrated overview of the history and way of life of Pennsylvania’s Native Americans will be presented. Covering the period from circa 1525 through 1800, the Swartzes will talk about the major groups of Native Americans living […]

The safety and health of our community are of utmost importance to us. This program has been postponed. The new date is yet to be determined and will be posted here when confirmed.  Presented by Andre Weltman, Chairman, Friends of Pine Grove Furnace State Park. Andre Weltman will discuss the impact of the iron industry—in […]

To celebrate 25 years of the Institute at Renfrew’s spring kite fly event, kite masters George and Sam Adams will present a program on kite power. Learn how kites have been used historically—not just for recreation, but to move machines and generate electricity. The Adams brothers will then help guests build their own kite from […]

Raised hands with trash and recycle sign, vector illustration Co-sponsored by Antietam Watershed Association and The Institute at Renfrew. Still confused about what’s recyclable and what isn’t? Local experts address the status of recycling in the Waynesboro area and Franklin County. Panelists include: Washington Township Manager, Jeff Geesaman; Waynesboro Boro Manager, Jason Stains; Franklin County […]

Technology meets nature— Learn about the use of nature identification apps on the smartphone, including iNaturalist, Seek, and others. From hikers to birders to beach-combers, everyone can be a naturalist, […]

Friday, September 25, 7:30–9 p.m. Discover nocturnal insects at Renfrew Park! The program introduces participants to insects not normally seen during the daytime. The instructor will talk about the special […]

Saturday, September 26, 9 a.m.–12 p.m. Participants learn how the flax plant is transformed into beautiful linen cloth. The program covers the history of flax, and how it affected our culture. […]

The October 3 Geology Field Trip is SOLD OUT!  Future date for a possible second trip to be confirmed. ‘Tripping Over the Mountain’ with Jeri Jones Trip over the mountain—South Mountain—and discover its incredible geologic story! Join us for a Geological Journey with Jeri: Five Stops from Carroll Valley to Monterey Pass, and Points In […]

SOAR (“Studying Ornithology Around the Region”) is back—starting January 2. IMPORTANT: The location for Saturday, January 2 is Antietam Meadow Park. DIRECTIONS: Click here to find directions for the correct entrance via Scott Lane (off Country Club Road).  SOAR walkers are encouraged to wear boots for this excursion. NOTE: Locations for SOAR bird walks will […]