Passport to History Program

The Passport Program is part of Burlingame Historical Society’s Community Education program for the town’s third grade children. As part of the state’s curriculum, children are required to learn local history at that grade level. Started in 2001 as a pilot project at Washington School the Passport Program has now been expanded to all seven elementary schools in Burlingame. The program is provided free to the schools.

The Passport Program is a hands on experience and provides interesting stories about Burlingame’s past for the children, their parents and teachers to enjoy. Each student, parent and teacher is furnished with a printed "passport" that lists 24 historical sites or pieces of history in Burlingame and multiple choice questions. During a two-hour walking tour the children fill out the passports and answer the questions within the "passport". At the end, the participants get a sticker that designates them as official junior historians. Historical Society docent, parents, teachers and "special guests" are all involved in providing questions and historical anecdotes during the tour.

Those interested in becoming Docents for the Passport Program should contact the Society or email directly to the Passport program. Due to the nature of the program "Passports" are only available to participating 3rd Grade children and parents, teachers, and "tour special guests". The Society requires a 30-day notice so that passports can be prepared for the children.

We are grateful to the Burlingame Lion’s Club, Crystal Springs,  Poplar Creek Golf Course for their help.  Also Jerry Coleman (Anson Burlingame) and Jill Lauder (Julius E. Kruttschnitt palm historian).

This program has been a great way to reach a lot of children and their parents. The Historical Society has created a program that promotes our special town to our most important asset - our children.