SACRAMENTO REGION, CA (MPG) - Two beloved US presidents and their first ladies will be joined by frontiersmen, Buffalo Soldiers, colonial infantry and a huge sampling of Americana at Mt Vernon Memorial Park in Fair Oaks on February 17. The facility’s annual American Heritage Day falls on the national Presidents Day holiday.

Liberty Bell replica chime will begin hours of reenactments and educational displays at 10 am. While prospectors pan for gold, nimble-fingered ladies will demonstrate spinning and the genteel art of lace-making. Abraham Lincoln will introduce “my wife, Mary” and George Washington will present a sedate Martha to visitors. A steam locomotive will provide insight into the transport revolution that won the West. Pony Express recruiters will also be on hand, seeking “Young, skinny, wiry fellows… willing to risk death daily.” The Well Fargo Bank will roll out its iconic stage coach for up-close viewing. Activities will be loudly punctuated by the periodic firing of an antique Howitzer cannon, provided Sierra Nevada Mormon Pioneer volunteers.

For a warmer and more fuzzy experience, children are encouraged to pet goats that represented milk and meat to early pioneers farmers. Hotdog lunches are available for purchase and families, teachers and school groups are welcome to the free event. “We plan to bring history to life,” says event coordinator Ruthie Demakas. “American Heritage Day is a wonderful educational opportunity for all ages.”

Mt Vernon Memorial Park is located at 8201 Greenback Lane. Events run from 10 am till 2 pm. For information, call (916) 969-1251.