We have lots of ways for you to volunteer at Chestnut Square.  The time you spend at Chestnut Square can make a big difference.  Whether you pitch in to maintain the buildings and grounds, docent for an elementary school tour, help put exhibits together, demonstrate crafts or perform reenactments at our Living History Days, you’re helping to bring history to life.

When you hold your next historic moment at Chestnut Square Historic Village you’ll be able to customize the experience to meet your vision for the day.  Our helpful staff will work with you to decide on the best  setting for your event and provide tables, chairs and linens.  You take it from there!  You’re free to select your florist, caterer and entertainment.  We provide the setting for you to make your own history!

Hear the hammer’s clang on the blacksmith’s anvil. Taste delicious Dutch oven cooking. Touch cloth woven on an antique loom. See how butter is churned. Smell the campfire. Yesterday’s living is a treat for the senses at The Chestnut Square Prairie Adventure Camp!

Chestnut Square Historic Village brings Collin County history to life with events, educational programs and tours. The collection of ten historic houses and buildings represent life in Collin County from 1850-1930. Our docents lead public tours on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 11:00 a.m. and share their knowledge about Collin County history, the houses and buildings and the families who lived in them. Come down and visit for a tour or one of the following upcoming events:

• Our 2008 Living History Days continue on September 12 with Scout Days and a Pumpkin Festival!  Join us from 1:00 – 4:00 to enjoy Dutch oven cooking and blacksmithing demonstrations, crafters and re-enactors and a stagecoach ride. Scout activities will include tours, old-fashioned games, leather working and more!  Click here for more information about future Living History Days.
  
  

• Collin County History Comes to Life was a great success on Saturday, September 13, 2008 with Richard Privitt as Collin McKinney in the original play, "The Lost Letter" by award winning play write Andy Wilkinson.  The dinner at Rick's Chop House sold out and over 250 people attended the play.  $15,000 was raised to support The North Texas History Center and Chestnut Square.  Many thanks to our sponsors:  McKinney Community Development Corporation (MCDC), Abernathy, Roeder, Boyd and Joplin, Rick's Chophouse, Wal-Mart Stores of McKinney, McKinney Office Supply, Independent Bank, Smith Barney and Valliance Bank.
  
  

• The Mckinney Farmers’ Market will continue through Saturday October 25 at Chestnut Square.  Come on out and enjoy the fresh fall vegetables and a bottomless cup of coffee!
  
  
• The Legends of McKinney Ghost Walk debuts on Saturday, October 25.  Take this self-guided tour to experience the unique legends of downtown McKinney.  Ghostly sightings are not guaranteed, but lots of shivery fun is!
  
  
• Wedding season is in full swing and we're already planning for 2009!  Check out our January and February specials.  Remember to keep Chestnut Square in mind for your historic moment! For more information on our facility rentals and wedding offering, call Laurie at 972-467-9823 or contact us.
  
  
• We’ve changed our membership structure to offer even more benefits…check out our membership form and sign up today!
  
  
• Check out our latest newsletter to learn what’s happening at Chestnut Square.
  
  
• Make a difference to Chestnut Square today. Donate to our operating fund or endowment fund or sponsor a building or program.