Travel back in time at the 1800s Harvest Jamboree in North Bend 

Back in the 19th century, as summer became fall, Ohioans were thinking less of hayrides and pumpkin spice and more about their crops and the upcoming harvest. This lifestyle, though something of the past, will be recreated this weekend for those interested in seeing how the pioneers lived. The 1800s Harvest Jamboree, hosted by Great Parks of Hamilton County, will take place Nov. 2-3 at Shawnee Lookout Park in North Bend.  

“The 1800s Harvest Jamboree is always a fun way to experience life as it was 200 years ago, and learn some interesting history while doing it,” Luke Ogonek, West Region Education Manager for Great Parks, says. “We’ll have delicious food, fun games and outdoor adventures in one of our most beautiful parks, Shawnee Lookout.” 

Activities at the event include arts and crafts where attendees can make their own candles and rag dolls among other old-time creations. Additionally, Great Parks will offer guests a chance to participate in games including ring toss and tomahawk throwing. Also, the two-person saw will be out for those wanting a taste of what work was like on a homestead.  

For those who come hungry, the event’s “pioneer picnic,” will offer up 19th-century delicacies like cornbread, onion pie and “apple tansey,” a grain-free baked apple dessert similar to tarte tatin.  

Since the event will be held at Shawnee Lookout’s Springhouse School, visitors will also have access to the park’s many historical sites, including a Native American archeological network. 

Beyond the history the event offers, visitors can trek through the park’s hiking trails. Most notably, these trails offer hikers views of the river and a chance to see all states that make up the tri-state at once.   

The 1800s Harvest Jamboree will take place Nov. 2-3, 1-5 p.m. It is free, though some activities require a small fee, and is open to all ages.