Life for 18th-Century North Carolinians wasn’t easy. Important chores back then included keeping hearth fires going for warmth and meals and making sure there were enough candles on hand to see at night. Students and teachers can learn how early Americans heated and lighted their homes on a field trip to Rural Hill, a 265-acre historic site, nature preserve and working farm. You can see how people made fire by flint or steel, used oil and grease lamps and made candles. Rural Hill, located in Huntersville (roughly 30 minutes from Charlotte), offers a variety of cultural events and educational programs.