DATE: Thursday, March 13, 1997              TAG: 9703110162

SECTION: NORFOLK COMPASS         PAGE: 18   EDITION: FINAL 

SOURCE: BY JOAN C. STANUS, STAFF WRITER 

                                            LENGTH:   36 lines

HUNTER HOUSE OFFERS PROGRAMS BASED ON AMERICAN GIRLS BOOKS

Little girls who dream of days gone by will get a chance to relive their fantasies through a special children's membership offered by Norfolk's Hunter House Victorian Museum.

For the first time, the museum on west Freemason Street has introduced a membership package for 8- to 12-year-old girls based on a series of programming titled ``Samantha and Friends.'' Samantha is a turn-of-the-century girl who is featured in the popular American Girls book series. Her other ``friends'' include Anne of Green Gables and the March sisters from ``Little Women.''

Hour-long programs inspired by these classic characters will be held throughout 1997 at the Hunter House. The programs include readings from the books, related crafts and other activities.

Although participants in the program don't have to be members, those children who are receive an admission discount.

Membership at the museum is open only to children. Upon joining, they receive a Victorian thank-you note, ``Victorian Children'' sticker book and five scheduled mailings throughout the year. Included in the mailings are activity books, abridged classics and advance notification of programs.

Membership cost is $10 per year.

Programs already scheduled at the museum are ``The Queen's Birthday,'' ``An American Girls Birthday Party'' and ``A Fairy Ball.'' Each month, a Victorian Children's Hour will also be held for 4- to 8-year-olds. Those activities include a traditional story or activity, usually consisting of a ``make-and-take'' craft, stories, games and refreshments.

Because space is limited, advance registration for programs are required. For more information, or for membership details, contact Margaret Elinsky at 623-9814.

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