Those were a few of the questions Niagara Area Historical Society Board President Karen Klenke asked as she greeted fourth-graders from the School District of Niagara on Thursday to the museum’s second location.

Students were invited for a special field trip to learn about the “museum without walls” on the corner of Quincy and Jefferson streets.

“They are the first class to have a tour like this,” Klenke said. “We want to share our history with the kids and let them know it’s a serene place where they can come and bring their families.”

Within the woods and native plantings sit three significant historical structures, where visitors can read informative plaques of their importance to the community, NAHS member Darlene Kadulski said.

FOURTH GRADE STUDENTS Ryker Reynolds, Grayson Stec and Bo Martin sign their name and leave a message on a Class of 2033 board that will be displayed at the Niagara Area Historical Museum’s Serenity Woods. (Terri Castelaz/Daily News photo)

During the tour, kids were met at each location by Niagara natives who shared stories of the old gray DuBord shed, former mill site fire shed, the old bicycle and even the rocks placed in the pond.

A highlight is Joe Geldmeyer, a former firefighter, assisting at the “red shed,” Klenke said.

Students enjoyed doing chalk art along the red walkway that is lined with personalized commemorative bricks that were purchased by supporters of the museum and Serenity Woods.

They were also encouraged to sign and write a statement about their visit on their NHS Class of 2033 board.

“The board will be sealed for protection and displayed on the shed,” Klenke said. “We hope to make this an annual tradition.”

CLAIRE FREEMAN AND Alaine Mashak select a colorful heart rock from Judy Sanicki at Serenity Woods in Niagara, Wis. (Terri Castelaz/Daily News photo)

Each student left the visit to the pond with a butterfly and heart-shaped rocks as a gift from the NAHS to remember Serenity Woods.

The tour concluded with red, white and blue frozen pops for their travels back to school.

“I had expectations, but it went way beyond,” said Kadulski. “The kids were so involved and engaged in the activities.”

Kadulski said it’s a stepping stone for future planning in getting the kids into the physical museum.

Klenke agreed the event couldn’t have been better.

JOE GELDMEYER, A former firefighter, shares stories about the “red shed” with fourth grade teacher Daniel Krznarich and his students from the School District of Niagara. Emma Geldmeyer also assisted with telling the history during the school's field trip Thursday to the Niagara Area Historical Museum’s Serenity Woods. (Terri Castelaz/Daily News photo)

Kadulski explained the property was donated to the museum by Klenke to be developed as an oasis for all ages. “Numerous community members have contributed their time and efforts to make this a reality and is a work in progress,” she added.

The site has hosted programs since its opening including the winter solstice celebration with American flute performances and storytelling, smudging and historical walks.

Serenity Woods is open 24/7 to the public.

“We welcome everyone to sit in the quiet to reflect and embrace the stillness and peacefulness of the unique woods,” said Kadulski.

The museum, 1364 River St. in Niagara, houses an extensive collection of local history exhibits. They are open to the public from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays. Personalized tours can be arranged by contacting Klenke at 906-396-7499.

For more information, go to the Niagara Historical Museum Facebook page or their website at www.niagaraareahistoricalsociety.org.