Clarence Historical Museum

Today is the "History Day" part of the Clarence Heritage Days weekend celebration. That brings us directly to the front door of the Clarence Historical Museum, located at 10465 Main Street, on the north side of the Town Park. It will be open all weekend so that residents and visitors alike can view the collected materials relating to early and present day Clarence.

A couple of weeks ago I stopped by and was shown around by the museum curator, Clarence alumna ('71) Alicia Bush Braaten (pictured). There are various sections on military history (including current residents in the armed forces), domestic life, industry, schools (including yearbooks from back when through 2008), and much more.

The Goodrich-Landow log cabin is also located on the grounds and is available for inside tours. It was interesting to learn that the phrase "sleep tight" originated in the need to tighten the ropes that held the mattress up. The "bed bugs" part is self-explanatory.

I've posted the pictures I took in a web album for all to browse through. I'll be adding more as I go back on a later date and meander though the parts I missed that day, due to becoming fascinated on one side of the museum, while at the same time, reminiscing with a childhood friend :) So much to see, so little time alloted...Time flies, both that day and in the historical sense.

Today there will be a special focus on old time games and activities for an afternoon of memories. From the brochure:

"Outside there will be a checkers tournament, croquet, nine pins, game of graces, jacks, marbles, and more! Inside the building speakers will present short programs at the top of each hour. Historic re-enactors will be on the grounds to answer questions, especially the age old one, "Was life easier back then?"

Ha!

The regular hours of the Museum are Wednesday 10am - 2pm and Sunday 1pm - 4pm (March 1 - October 31). The hours for Clarence Genealogy research at the Gerber Greatbatch Library, 10871 Main Street are Wednesday 9:30am - 12noon (716-749-1623).