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Preschool Program Information for Teachers Situated on what was once a major transportation artery linking the farms of the Shenandoah Valley with the port of Alexandria, Colvin Run Mill served as the center of rural life in 19th century Virginia. Today, Colvin Run Mill Historic Site offers children ages 3 to 5 a stimulating introduction to the basic concepts of milling and to the history of the surrounding community. On their tour of the mill, your class will meet four puppets who explain how the mill transforms corn into cornmeal. Marvin the Miller and Alvin the Apprentice explain the grinding process and the hard work of running a mill. Fred the Farmer talks about planting and harvesting corn and bringing it to the mill; and Matilda, Fred's wife, describes the importance of the general store to the community. The docent-led tour also includes an interpretation of the grinding stones and a visit to the waterwheel. The children then go to the barn where they investigate the items in the Hands-On History Trunk. The docent will explain how these items were used in 19th century life and compare them to items familiar to us today. The children take home a coloring sheet to complete as a reminder to their day at the mill. Please allow one hour for your tour. Comfortable walking shoes and clothing appropriate for the weather are advised as your class will be walking outdoors between buildings and the mill is unheated.