In conjunction with Fire Prevention Month in October, the Holland-Springfield-Spencer Historical Society 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 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, October 18, when vintage fire trucks also will be on display in the parking lot across from the museum.
The fire department will provide information on fire safety to visitors, and Scott Stigall of State Farm Insurance in Holland, Kristina White and Springfield Township, will provide refreshments.
The museum’s neighbor Fire Nation will host a hot “fire sale.”
This and other museum events are free and open to the public with free will donations accepted. On Friday, October 31, the museum celebrates Halloween and trick or treat from 6 to 8 p.m.
“Is the museum haunted? Stop by on Halloween, receive a treat 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 Springfield Schools’ student 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, old toys and popcorn plastic wall hangings.
For more information or to donate, contact Ms. Maiolo at 419-260-1540 or send an email to holland springfieldhistory@gmail .com.
The director thanks area residents for their support of local history.
“These exhibits would not be possible without 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.
