Seasonal Offerings
"The Other Victorians: 19th Century Servant Life Tours":
This guided tour illustrates the lives and duties of domestic servants, laborers, grooms and jockeys, and professionals in the 19th century. A small exhibit is scattered throughout the home detailing in words and old photographs the ways in which local African Americans earned a living during the Reconstruction period, after they were freed from slavery. Offered each February in conjunction with Black History Month, on the 3rd Saturday of each month, and by request.
"Brother Against Brother - Kentucky During the Civil War" Living History Day:
On one Saturday each fall, visitors to Riverview will hear the roar of cannon, watch the powerful horses drill, see reenactors clothed either in uniforms of blue and gray or flowing hoop-skirted gowns with parasols and hats, and listen to storytellers and a lecturer as they recreate the aura of the Civil War. Sutlers (merchants who sold goods to the armies) have handcrafted items for sale. Preserve the memories of the day with an authentic ambrotype of your family, as did families of the 19th century before the advent of modern photography. We also offer fine regional food—barbecue, fresh apple cider and fried fruit pies. Families, Scouts, and history buffs alike will enjoy learning about the past from the reenactors, storytellers and lecturers.
Victorian Holiday Tours:
From the Tuesday before Thanksgiving until the Friday before Christmas, visitors to Riverview are transported back in time to Christmas 1890 in the setting of Atwood and Julia Hobson’s three-story Italianate home. Inside the doors, one can visually take in the natural and hand-made decorations and the aroma of Christmases past. The parlor is outfitted with the 19th century holiday rage: the quaint and breath-taking Christmas tree, complete with antique decorations and toys. A sumptuous table is set for holiday guests in the elegant Dining Room where dramatic decorations will surprise even the repeat visitor. Throughout the house, visitors will learn of Victorian Christmas customs such as the “Cobweb Party,” the “Wonder Ball,” and the “Blind Man’s Stocking”, and how many of our modern traditions stem from 19th century ideas. All tours are fully guided to insure a memorable experience.