In past years, approximately 1200 third grade students per year from 17 schools in Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, and Cupertino school districts visited our museum to take a glimpse into past times.
These field trips include:
- A brief history of the Martin Murphy, Jr. family and the City of Sunnyvale
- A tour of some of the museum’s exhibit rooms
- Hands-on experiences using tools people worked with over 100 years ago, such as washing clothes by hand and hanging them out to dry
The program is geared for third grade students and their social studies curriculum. There is no charge for the school visits. However, we are always happy to receive donations to help support the museum, as that is our main source of income.
To request a field trip date for your school fill out the form HERE. If you have questions, want more information on our School Program or are interested in being a volunteer for a program please email schoolprogram@heritageparkmuseum.org.
Learning how to use a clothes wringer.
Comments from teachers:
"The docents are knowledgable and manage the students well."
"The pacing is good to maintain the interest of students. Students enjoyed the many hands-on activities."
"Always a wonderful experience. Well-organized and age appropriate."
"Just fantastic. All docents were great, kind, and informative. I love this field trip."
"This is an excellent program; it really teaches the children about their wonderful city."
"Very well organized. Loved that student behavior expectations were reviewed."
Materials from long-ago school days the students can view
Comments from students' "Thank You" letters:
"Thank you for teaching us about the Murphy family and letting us eat apricots and make toys."
"I can’t wait to tell all of my friends and family all about the Murphy family and house."
"I really liked it so much I want to work there."
"I liked learning things I never knew before."
"Thank you for all the fun and information."
"I appreciate you bringing me to the past."
"I enjoyed learning about how Sunnyvale used to be."
Click Here to see some of the letters and drawings sent to us by the students!
Students can play with vintage toys
Comments heard as children left the museum:
"This place is awesome!"
"I had a great time."
"What a cool place!"
"I never knew the things you taught us."
"It was like a blast from the past!"
"It's the best museum ever!"
Students may try out the old desks when they learn about school life in the 1800s
A 19th century bathing costume for girls
The students can play with wooden toys outside
Students may try pumping water
