LIVERMORE — The next 24-hour Live-In History Experience at Washburn-Norlands Living History Center on Sept. 27 and 28 is open to the public.

To reserve a spot, sign up by Sept. 13. Space is limited to 15 participants. For more information or to register, call 207-897-4366, email Programs@Norlands.org or visit www.norlands.org.

The Live-In History Experience is an overnight introduction to the food, activities and living conditions of the past and a unique and fun way of learning about rural Maine farm life after the Civil War.

Participants will live without modern technology such as cellular phones and MP3 players; assume the character of someone who actually lived near the Norlands in the 19th century and become a part of a farm family; learn appropriate behavior and customs, speech and colloquialisms of the time; use 19th century farm implements and discover the challenges of cooking on a wood stove; learn the realities of 19th-century farm life by participating in indoor and outdoor chores; play period games and listen to stories in the evening; relax on the piazza and soak in the tranquility and beauty of Norlands; go back to the basics of reading, writing and ‘rithmetic in the District #7 one-room schoolhouse; and stay in an authentic reproduction of an 1870s farmer’s cottage with old-fashioned beds.

The program includes three authentic farm meals, evening snack, one night’s lodging and instructional materials

Fees are $125 per adult and $95 for ages 12 and under.

For safety reasons, the physical activities and the need to participate, this program is open to adults and children age 9 and older. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Live-ins last from 2:30 p.m. one day to 2:30 p.m. the following day.

“Our experiences with our character role playing, cooking our meals on a wood cook stove, completing various chores around the farm, attending a lesson at the old school house and the night-time tour of the mansion was exhilarating for us all,” said participant Thomas Davidson, Androscoggin Learning and Transition Center, Auburn. “During the final check-in to end our two-day program we all sat around and shared our experiences. It was obvious to me at this time how this program emotionally affected my co-workers and I by hearing the positive comments and praise about different aspects of the program. It definitely brought us closer as a team.

“Whether you are co-workers, students or friends, I would highly recommend this experience to everyone as it will teach you something new about yourself and give you memories to last a lifetime,” said Davidson.