Rolling Bay Presbyterian Church’s annual vacation bible school, which took place daily from July 15 to July 18, introduced more than 50 children, age 4 through sixth grade, to the lifestyle of yesteryear as part of this year’s theme: “On the Frontier.”

“This isn’t the typical out-of-the-box sticker vacation bible school program,” said Molly Dunn, Director of Children’s Ministry. “All of our activities are very hands-on, like carpentry, bread making, sewing, weaving, soap making, candle dipping … butter churning, fishing, cow milking, canoe racing, and other little prairie games.”

The 53 students were shepherded by more than 40 adult volunteers who turned out to assist, and Wednesday’s session involved a special guest: a bunch of farm animals.

Dunn said many of the children attending were not from families that belonged to Rolling Bay Presbyterian’s congregation, but the school had become something of a tradition for many of them.

Search “MARKETPLACE at Rolling Bay Presbyterian Church” on Facebook to learn more.

The Review’s Luciano Marano paid a visit, camera in hand, to capture the historically accurate action. His favorite shots are collected here.