By Nathan Hardin
nhardin@salisburypost.com
GRANITE QUARRY — Hundreds filed through the Old Stone House this weekend for the 28th annual German Christmas Celebration.
Volunteers dressed in colonial garb showed about 300 visitors around Michael Braun’s stone home that was built in 1776 on Saturday and organizers expected a similar size crowd on New Year’s Day.
The home was opened to the public following restoration in 1966.
Along with candlemaking and woodworking, Kaye Hirst, event organizer and executive director of the Rowan Museum, said the event had several new exhibits.
“We have cornshuck dolls this year and goats and chickens,” Hirst said. “It’s a much simpler way of life.”
Visitors could also try several 18th century food dishes, like vinegar chicken or potato soup.
Volunteer Stephanie Muff sat in a chair on the home’s second floor, operating a spinning wheel.
“Last spring was my first time here,” Muff said. “It’s a lot of fun.”
Sunday was the last day the home would be open to the public until it opens for the summer in early April.
Eric and Magen Barber said they know Hirst and brought their three kids to see the home’s history.
“I’m from Massachusetts,” Magen Barber said. “I thought I’d bring the kids and see what it’s all about.”
The Barbers 3-year-old son, Griffin, and 5-year-old son, Gracianna, smiled as they tried to work the spinning wheels’ pedals Sunday afternoon.
“It was impressive,” Barber said. “I’ll probably bring them again when they’re older and can appreciate it, but we’re having fun.”