2005 Year in Review

What Is Happening at Morrison's Heritage Museum?

This is a busy time for the Historical Society Board members. We have built events for young genealogists, button lovers, and antique collectors. We continue as stewards of our historic dwelling.

Saturday, September 17, Ann Damerow, Mary Beth Dombroski, Jane VanZuiden, and Stephanie Vavra will instruct youngsters in genealogy charts during Paint the Town. They will be available at a table on Main Street from 2:00 to 4:30.

The next day, Sunday, September 18, Josie Johnson entertains museum visitors with her antique buttons from 1:00 to 2:00. She will discuss the history and art of buttons; bring a favorite button to “show and tell.” Afterwards, guests may examine the buttons and enjoy refreshments.

Dr. George Morris returns Saturday, October 29, to appraise antique items, but this time, he will make house calls. From 10:00 to Noon he will evaluate antiques at the museum. The first item costs $10; each additional item costs $5. From 1:00 to 4:00, he will visit homes to assess larger items: $25 for the first item, $5 for each additional. Make an appointment for a home visit by calling Judy McCulloh at 772-3224.

Morrison’s Heritage Museum is constantly in a state of building upgrade and beautification. Our new software is installed. It will allow us to record the 15,000 items we cataloged by hand earlier this year.

Morrison Blacktop and Excavating created a smooth parking surface and drive-through.

Fall bulbs have been ordered, so the front yard will delight in the spring.

Walk through the front door and admire the newly-refurbished door trim. The decorative pediment was replaced, and the sides were restored. They look as fresh as they did when originally installed. These improvements took many days’ labor by Gary Fritz and Richard Dombroski.

Look toward the ceiling where the former choir loft houses stored items. The paneled wall and shelves showcase vintage farm items. Doug McCulloh recently illuminated the attractive display with spotlights.

If needed, visitors may now use the chairlift to the basement viewing areas. McCulloh retrofitted the chairlift to run from wall current, instead of an uncooperative battery.

One permanent vignette in the basement is devoted to area churches. Does your church have items you would like to feature? Contact Jackie Tilton at 772-2731 to discuss a temporary “offering” to the museum.

by Stephanie A. Vavra, Guest Columnist
September 7, 2005