Hearst Castle Launches a Virtual History Class for Elementary Students
Like many landmarks across the country, Hearst Castle in San Simeon, California, remains closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But for elementary school students, who have been unable to attend school for weeks now, it will opens its doors—digitally, of course—for a home learning program that will delve into the history of the castle and its architect, Julia Morgan.
In 1919, media baron William Randolph Hearst commissioned Morgan, who was California's first licensed woman architect, to build a sprawling estate that he would call La Cuesta Encantada (Spanish for "The Enchanted Hill"). Done up in Spanish-style architecture, the 165-room mansion is surrounded by 127 acres of gardens, pools, and terraces. And then there's the view: the estate's 1,600 foot elevation affords it the most commanding views of the Pacific.
Hearst had to leave his castle in 1947 due to his failing health and a decade later, his family donated the property to the state of California. Today, the state park welcomes more than 700,000 visitors a year.
This learning program, which is meant for third to fifth graders and takes place March 31 at 1 p.m. PST, will incorporate STEAM disciplines (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and take students through the 28 years of Hearst Castle's realization, from conception to construction. Pre-registration is required, and is limited to the first 500 participants. Register here.
For older kids (grades 9-12), there is another Hearst Castle learning program on April 2 at 12 p.m. PST that will explore the castle's architecture and extensive art collection, as well as pull back the curtain on William Randolph Hearst. Other California state parks are also offering learning programs through PORTS (Parks Online Resources for Teachers and Students), from exploring Point Lobos near Monterey to focusing on the indigenous cultures of northern California. For the full schedule and registration details, visit ports-ca.us.
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