Furs to be exhibited at museum in Niles

NILES — During an open house scheduled from 2 to 5 p.m. today at the Ward-Thomas Museum, 503 Brown St., visitors will have an opportunity to view a unique collection of fur attire and accessories.

Displayed will be capes, scarves and muffs made of a variety of furs such as French mole, seal plush, Astrakhan, and ermine. Many of the items were worn in the 1860s.

The exhibit includes a 26-inch cape made of real monkey fur, a fox fur neck drape and several muffs. There is also an 1888 Astrakhan-trimmed jacket with a nine-hook closure.

Typical of the fur muffs, which were once very fashionable and had elastic bands in the cuff area to keep out the cold, is an 1860 seal muff purchased at the prestigious Edward Kakas establishment in Boston and donated to the museum along with the original box.

On Sunday visitors may also view a display of children’s shoes including soft, furry slippers, two-tone high tops, and Mary Janes.

The Ward-Thomas Museum is owned by the city of Niles and maintained by Niles Historical Society. It is open to the public from 2 to 5 p.m. the first Sunday of each month. Private tours can be arranged by calling (330) 544-2143.

The annual Historical Society meeting will be at 10 a.m. Feb. 7 at the Westenfield Room of the museum.