NILES Heritage Day offers fun for local families

The event features special exhibits and entertainment.
By SHERRI L. SHAULIS
VINDICATOR TRUMBULL STAFF
NILES -- The Ward and Thomas families were known for their dedication to the city and for their penchant for entertaining guests at their home.
Now, families can gather for a day to learn the history of the home, the families and the area, as well as enjoy a little entertainment.
The Niles Historical Society is sponsoring the 24th annual Heritage Day from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday at the Ward-Thomas Museum, 503 Brown St.
"Each year for this event, we focus on a couple of things to highlight," said Audrey John of the historical society.
"It's one of those events we schedule every year that helps get us on the map."
This year, special exhibits include "Ladies of the White House," a collection of full-size, reproduction inaugural ball gowns; antique cars will line the driveway of the Victorian museum; and entertainment by nationally known magician Gary Morton, ventriloquist William Lisby, Sounds of Square Country, and Little Joe and his honky-tonk piano.
Also, homemade baked goods will be sold, as will raffle tickets for a handmade quilt featuring 156 cathedral windows.
A white-elephant sale will also take place on the front lawn.
Various displays will set up on the grounds, and food will be available at the museum's greenhouse window.
Local calling
Often a tourist stop, many residents of Niles don't take the time to visit the historical gem in their own backyard, John said.
"It's like anything else," she said. "Any city has people who never visit the sites in their hometown. So many people always assume it will always be there, but they don't take the time to go."
Heritage Day is a perfect opportunity for local residents to check out the museum and to spend time together, she said.
"They can come and have some food and listen to the music, and the kids can enjoy the magician, the face-painting and the balloons," John said.
"And families can come and meet other people and chat with some they haven't seen for a while."
They can also soak up some of the history of the town, with exhibits and tours designed to highlight the house itself and the only two families who ever lived there. Items featured in the house include furniture and decorations from the time the home was built -- in 1862 -- as well as items from businesses from throughout Niles and artifacts of the city's schools.
Admission to Heritage Day is $4 for adults and $2 for pupils. Call (330) 544-2143.
slshaulis@vindy.com