Autumn is here, ushering in a new season and new displays at the Holland-Springfield-Spencer Historical Society Museum.
In conjunction with Fire Prevention Month in October, the museum is featuring an exhibit on the history of the local fire departments.
Captain Mike Kokocinski of the Springfield Township Fire Department has provided a number of pieces which are on display along with photographs of earlier firefighters and some of the blazes they have battled.
Visitors can check out the display on Thursday, October 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The exhibit culminates on Saturday, October 18, when vintage fire trucks will be on display in the parking lot across from the museum from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The fire department also will provide information on fire safety to visitors.
Scott Stigall of State Farm in Holland will provide refreshments, and the museum’s neighbor, Fire Nation, will hold a “fire sale” that’s sure to be hot.
On Friday, October 31, the museum will join the community in celebrating Halloween and trick or treat from 6 to 8 p.m.
“Is the museum haunted? Stop by on Halloween and see if you can spot any ghosts wandering the building,” said director Jane Maiolo.
With Veterans Day in November, visitors are encouraged to visit the military room. Recently added to the exhibit are pieces from June 1944. They include a Naval magazine and documentation from the USS Alabama.
The last event of the season, a Christmas open house, will take place Saturday, December 6, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and 6 to 8 p.m..
With help from volunteers, the museum will be decorated for the holidays, and refreshments will be served.
For the Christmas display, the director is seeking on loan donations of Nativities for display in the showcases and popcorn plastic wall hangings.
“We also are looking for a 1960s silver tinsel tree with a rotating light to display in our main entry,” she said.
For more information or to donate, contact Maiolo at 419260-1540 or send an email to hollandspringfield history@gmail.com.
The director expresses appreciation to supporters of local history.
“These exhibits are made possible by museum members, the Village of Holland and Springfield Township.”
Located at 7154 Front Street, Holland, the museum is free and open to the public on three Thursdays each month and on the third Saturday of the month.
