‘Christmas Past’ exhibit to open with food drive

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

The “Memories of Christmas Past” exhibition opens Saturday at the Arms Family Museum, 648 Wick Ave., with a special offer.

Visitors who bring canned goods in support of 21 WFMJ-TV’s Project Feed Our Valley will receive half-price admission. The food drive will continue Sunday and again over Thanksgiving weekend – Nov. 24-26.

For the annual exhibition, the Arms museum is completely decorated in holiday finery against the historic backdrop of the original 1905 Arms family mansion.

“Memories” is a one-of-a-kind winter wonderland that rivals the holiday displays in major cities. It is finely detailed with eye-catching vintage decor: toys, trains, ornaments, lights, dolls, furniture, trees and more. It uses pieces from the Mahoning Valley Historical Society’s collection, as well as items on loan from private collectors.

“There’s nothing like it for miles,” said Bill Lawson, executive director of the MVHS. “Every year, visitors tell us how much the display brings back their best nostalgic childhood memories.”

Now in its 10th year, the museum’s holiday exhibit designer, Anthony Worrellia, has brought back a “best of” group of items from the past nine years.

“Our guests have requested a repeat of some of their favorite displays and items featured over the years,” said Worrellia. “Even though it takes a year to plan and execute, it’s always my pleasure to help bring back the flood of good memories so many people have for the Christmas holiday.”

“Memories” runs through Jan. 7. Hours are Tuesday through Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.; and Thursdays from noon to 7 p.m. The museum is closed on Mondays, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

Admission for the exhibit is $7 ($6 for senior citizens and college students, $5 for children age 3 to 18, and free for children under age 3). Proceeds from the event help fund the educational and exhibit programs sponsored by the MVHS.