A walk back in time

Though period music is played through a 20th century invention, the singing voice of Miss Rachel and the polite greeting of house slave Polly warmly invites you into Rock Hall mansion circa 1806.

It is a few days after the death of Dr. Samuel Martin, the master of the Lawrence farm that was willed to him by his father Josiah Martin. Through an approximately 45-minute tour Miss Rachel played by Jill Compton and Polly played by D. Ajaen Carlton, visitors are taken inside the Martin’s family life and learn about the generous spirit of the late Dr. Martin.

Assembled by Sal St. George, whose Suffolk County-based St. George Living History Productions, Inc. produces historical productions; the tour is as entertaining as it is enlightening.

“This tells the story of Rock Hall, this was a unique home,” said St. George, who was able to use the abundance of historical sources available through the museum. “Dr. Samuel Martin was a generous, caring, giving and well regarded man and this is a celebration of his life.”

Dr. Martin’s life was definitely unusual in one way. When Miss Rachel and Polly read his will, they find out that he not only provided for his sisters, but for Polly’s family as well.

Though a preview tour began with visitors being welcomed into the sitting room, the tours that are scheduled for Thanksgiving weekend and next month are expected to begin with a nine-minute video that encapsulates the history of a home built

in 1767.

Then Polly ushers you into the sitting room as Miss Rachel sings a few little ditties including a 1761 tune called “The Star,” as in “twinkle, twinkle little star.”

From period singing to reading and explaining the will in the main foyer, the visit moves upstairs to Dr. Martin’s bedroom and his study. For Carlton, who is portraying a 16-year-old Polly, she said that this is “literally a walk back in time” for her as she strolls from her bus stop and into character through the streets of

Lawrence.

Compton who came to St. George Productions through a friend said she did a little bit of research, but used mostly what St. George had put together to get into character.

“This was out first time with a real audience,” said Compton following the pre-tour performance. “I think we need to move slower through the rooms and have more stories as we walk.”

From Dr. Martin’s rooms the tour again heads downstairs to the main parlor for a beverage of Wassail, a hot spiced punch, and a variety of baked snacks. Be prepared to imbibe and shout enthusiastically.

From there the tour winds down to the house’s cellar and more is learned about 19th century living, including how self-sufficient homes were. Tours are scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 28, Dec. 5, 12 and 19 at 1 and 2:30 p.m. It is $12 per person, $10 for members and $7 for seniors and children. Space is limited and reservations are required. Call (516) 239-1157.