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Arms museum offers Hands-On History
By GUY D’ASTOLFO
YOUNGSTOWN
Children of all ages can learn what life was like in the Mahoning Valley in days long past at the Hands-On History open houses.
The events will be from 2-4 p.m. every Wednesday at the Arms Family Museum, 648 Wick Ave., beginning Wednesday and running through Aug. 13. The museum is operated by the Mahoning Valley Historical Society.
A different local history theme will be featured each week, ranging from science and industry to arts and culture. The first program will explore the history of medicine with representatives from the Melnick Medical Museum.
Hands-on activities are a part of each event, designed to spark interest and creativity in children.
“This is the third summer we’ve done these open houses,” said Leann Rich, MVHS spokeswoman. “The activities are geared towards kids, but most of the adults get involved, too.”
There is no cost to participate in the activities, and museum tours will be offered at half-price admission at each event.
For more information, go to mahoninghistory.org or call 330-743-2589.
Here is a complete schedule of topics:
Wednesday: “Medicine at the Museum”: How did doctors treat illnesses 100 years ago? Representatives from the Melnick Medical Museum will explore medical history.
June 18: “Old Fashion Fun”: Bring sneakers to play games and sports that would have been played long ago.
June 25: “Memorable Meals”: The Good Humor Bar, Schwebel’s Bread and other foods with Youngstown roots are the topic of this event at the Tyler History Center, 325 W. Federal St., downtown.
July 2: “The First Ohioans”: Travel back to pioneer days with costumes, crafts and creativity.
July 9: “My Town, Youngstown”: Step into historic Youngstown.
July 16: “Discover Native Americans”: See life through the eyes of the original inhabitants of Mahoning Valley while constructing and finding artifacts.
July 23: “Christmas in July”: Celebrate the holiday season in the heat of summer, with games and crafts other festive fun.
July 30: “The House Olive Built”: Olive Arms designed her home — now known as the Arms Family Museum — in the Arts & Crafts architectural style. Visitors will create masterpieces worthy of Greystone, as it was originally known.
Aug. 6: “A Nation Divided”: Enlist in Mr. Lincoln’s Army, make butter, play games and do crafts, all while learning about the Civil War.
Aug. 13: “The Magic of Music & Movies”: Experience the entertainment of yesteryear and make some of your own at this event, at the Tyler History Center, 325 W. Federal St., downtown.