MANSFIELD — Smoke rises from an open fire as volunteers with Richland Early American Center for History dressed in period clothing show dozens of youngsters how to make a pre-1820s meal featuring Brunswick stew, biscuits and tea.

Among the crowd was Hunter Camero, who said he’s seen something similar to the demonstration on television.

“I’ve seen it on TV in cartoons,” he said. “People dress up for the Oregon Trail.”

This wasn’t the nine-year-old’s first history lesson. He said he’s learned about the Revolutionary War and Johnny Appleseed. “He’s the guy who planted apple orchards,” he said, adding that he has his own small apple orchard at home.

As part of the demonstration, volunteers passed around different herbs to be used for the meal.

Flora Uhde, 5, held a piece of lemongrass to her nose, whispering, “It smells like lemon.”

She was also able to correctly identify chive, which she helps grow at her home.

The history class was just one facet of a program launched about eight years ago as a way to provide local youth with fun and educational activities during the summer.

Coordinated by Juli Parsons, the Fun in the Parks program features a variety of classes, from drama to art, gardening and history.

Caleb Parsons, Juli’s son, started the gardening class, giving folks an up-close look at how produce is grown.

“It’s been a lot of fun,” he said. “When people come, they come to learn.”

Some of the classes feature guest speakers who are able to provide additional insight to whatever subject is being taught. 

Fun in the Parks is run by volunteers and funded with grant money. There’s no cost to participate, but registration is required. Register by calling the Mansfield Parks Department at 419-522-9800.

Classes are held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at South Park off of Brinkerhoff Avenue.

Juli Parsons said the largest class she’s facilitated had 79 participants.

“Everybody is really good to one another, and they have become friends, so I just feel like all I do is facilitate friendships,” she said.

Although the Fun in the Parks program comes to a close Wednesday, July 19, the Summer Fun Time program continues through Aug. 4.

The Summer Fun Time program consists of outdoor recreation, games and food and is open to all school-aged children, free of charge. Activities take place at Johns Park and North Lake Park on Monday through Friday from 1 to 3 p.m.

“We’re taking a little bit of Fun in the Parks into other places in the city,” Parsons said.

To learn more about the program and to register, call the city parks department at 419-522-9800.