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Holiday Open House December 7 at McClurg Museum
The Chautauqua County Historical Society will say goodbye to 2025 with its annual “Just Desserts” holiday open house from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, December 7, at McClurg Museum.
The event provides visitors an opportunity to learn more about the museum and the historical society, including its exhibits and collections, free of charge.
Desserts donated by CCHS trustees, members, and volunteers will be served.
The event will also feature the return of the McClurg Street String Band, featuring Kent Knappenberger’s music students from Westfield Academy and Central School.
CCHS trustees and volunteers will provide updates on various CCHS and museum activities.
The open house, one of CCHS’s most popular events, is held annually to thank the community and CCHS members for their support throughout the year. It’s also an opportunity for CCHS to recruit new members for the new year. A single, annual membership is $30 and provides free admittance to the museum throughout the year, plus a subscription to the TimeLines newsletter which is mailed to all members.
“The historical society will once again open its doors to the public and provide refreshments, music, and camaraderie as we celebrate the holiday season,” said Jason Sample, CCHS president.
“Anyone interested in learning more about the county’s rich history and the McClurg Museum is invited to stop by, say ‘hello’ and meet with others who are passionate about our rich local history.”
For more information call 716.326.2977 or email info@cchsmcclurg.org.
In addition to the open house, McClurg Museum will have extended hours during Westfield’s Christmas in the Village celebration. The museum will be open from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, November 22, and Sunday, November 23. Regular admission ($5 per person) will be charged, with free admission for CCHS members, veterans, active service members, and children (when accompanied by an adult).
Treat Yourself At Holiday Victorian Tea
The Chautauqua County Historical Society will host its Holiday Victorian Tea at the McClurg Mansion in Westfield on Saturday, November 19, as part of the annual Christmas in Westfield series of events.
October 15 Program Explores Marvin House & Its Architect
E.G.W. Dietrich, the architect who designed the Elizabeth Warner Marvin Community House in Jamestown, will be the focus of a special presentation on October 15.
September Gala: An Evening With The Lincolns
An Evening With the Lincolns, featuring portrayals of President Abraham Lincoln and his wife Mary Todd Lincoln, is the theme of the annual fundraising gala sponsored by the Chautauqua County Historical Society at McClurg Museum in Westfield on September 10.
Westfield Antique Show Adds New Dealers
The Annual Westfield Antique Show will feature several new dealers this year.
Lumber Industry Explored In July 7 Program
Chautauqua County’s early lumber industry will be explored in a program by local historian and author Fletcher Ward at 7 p.m. on July 7 at the Kennedy Fire Hall, 3590 Daily Hill Rd., Kennedy.
Paul and Elisabeth Busti’s 1805 Travels
“The 1805 Travels of Paul and Elisabeth Busti,” a program by John Everett Jones, will be presented at 7 p.m. on August 18 at the Chautauqua Municipal Building, 2 Academy St., Mayville.
Matching Past and Present
Local historians and historical societies are often asked to identify buildings that appear in old photographs to help property owners research the history of their property. While records pertaining to 19th century buildings exist in several repositories throughout the county, we now have an additional resource to help find answers to these questions.
Barcelona Lighthouse Still A Beacon
In 2007 the historic Barcelona Lighthouse and keeper’s cottage, located in Westfield, were acquired by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historical Preservation. Although the grounds are open year-round, the Keeper’s Cottage – which features exhibits provided by the Chautauqua County Historical Society – is open to the public during staffed hours from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
‘American Tapestry’ Details Family’s Efforts
American Tapestry: Portrait of a ‘Middling’ Family, 1746-1934 was published recently by Pat Speth Sherman.
CCHS Selected For Grant
The Chautauqua County Historical Society has been selected to work with the Museum Association of New York (MANY) to develop a program that will reach folks who cannot physically visit McClurg Museum.