The desire to animate historic “Wax Museum” figures was compelling, as attendees of Morrison Historical Society’s program filled the main floor on Sunday, April 27, 2014. Children, adults, and Trustees mingled during the season Grand Opening of Morrison’s Heritage Museum, 202 E. Lincolnway, Morrison, IL.
Fourth grade interpreters from West Carroll Elementary School in Savanna, IL, were introduced by Trustee Vernon VanDyke. Instructors Tammy Haag, Janelle Strohmaier, and Kristan Yingling are responsible for this rich, multi-disciplinary, educational experience. Earlier this spring, over 80 students presented their research to the Savanna public, as they spread throughout their school building. Savanna parents who attended the Historical Society event expresssed how exciting that array of knowledge and talent is.
The children introduced themselves and their characters. Shown left-to-right are Tommy Falk – Eli Whitney; Ellanore Foltz – Harriet Tubman; Jayson Johnson – Davy Crockett; Laura Holm – Ruby Bridges; Thomas Johnson – William Clark; Taylor Eissens – Jane Addams; Andrew Stingley – Paul Newman; Betty Ashmore – Sybil Ludington.
In “round-robin” fashion, guests moved around the building to hear characters come alive. Boys performed downstairs, girls upstairs. In their first-person orations, each child was inanimate–as if frozen in wax–until an audience member tapped a nearby paper cup, signaling them to recite.
In January fourth grade students select a person of note to research and portray. The project has been in place for six years. They research, write a report, and compile attractive, accompanying posters of facts. Data is distilled into a short speech which is memorized. Next, students create appropriate period dress and props. Their mass school performances generate income for the West Carroll Education Foundation.
Look for more exciting presentations monthly at Morrison’s Heritage Museum, 202 E. Lincolnway, Morrison, at the intersection of U. S. Highway 30 and IL Route 78. Hours are Friday through Sunday from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. and by appointment. Call 815-772-8889 to leave a message. Parking is at the rear of the building, as is a ramp for ease of access. Additionally, there is an automatic chair to convey visitors to the basement displays.