HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. — From the 1800s home to artifacts and farm animals, the Historic Latta Plantation in Huntersville offers educational opportunities for people of all ages.
“It’s fun. It’s cool,” said visitor Jonah Fleisher. His brother, Elliott, pointed to the sheep and said, “I like looking at them. They’re so cute.”
When COVID-19 hit, the plantation was forced to close, cancel three of its largest events and furlough staff. Vice Chair Kendall Kendrick estimates they’ve lost $80,000 dollars so far, and could be looking at losses in the $100,000 range by the end of the year.
“It’s been very difficult trying to figure out how we are going to keep our doors opened. Especially through the winter, we’ve lost a significant amount of income. Of course, not having field trips. We are a historic site that survives off schools visiting us, so it’s been incredibly challenging,” Kendrick said.
While the plantation has been offering virtual learning, it’s getting more creative with in-person opportunities. It just launched Education Thursdays. For $6, students and their parents can walk through the property to learn about its history, visit with animals and take part in interactive exhibits.
The Latta Plantation Visitor Services Director Jenette Coomer said, “This is a piece of history that we want to preserve so that we can learn about it and teach.”
Students and parents can sign up for Education Thursdays through the end of October. Starting Monday, they are going to start selling tickets for a brand new Halloween event.
Cox Media Group
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