WCHS hosting holiday open house
The Wayne County Historical Society’s annual holiday open house Dec. 6-7 will include a special reading of “The Night Before Christmas” by Dick Figge on Dec. 7 at 3 p.m.
Looking for something festive to add to your holiday schedule? The Wayne County Historical Society will hold its annual holiday open house on Dec. 6 from 4-8 p.m. and Dec. 7 from 1-4 p.m. This year’s event promises a touch of nostalgia and holiday charm including a special reading of “The Night Before Christmas” by community favorite Dick Figge on Saturday at 3 p.m.
The historical society, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving Wayne County’s cultural heritage, offers this open house as an opportunity to explore its seven historic buildings through self-guided tours. Society members will be stationed throughout the campus to answer questions and share insights.
“This year the event will have a Dickens Christmas feel,” said Penny Gasbarre, the society’s president-elect. “The grounds come alive with holiday cheer including Christmas music played on the historic piano in the Beall Stibbs House by Roseanne Anfang.”
The Beall Stibbs House, the oldest surviving residential structure in Wooster, is just one of the highlights.
Visitors also can explore the Carriage Barn, filled with horse-drawn vehicles; the Firehouse, showcasing historic firefighting equipment; the General Mercantile Store, a preserved mid-19th-century shop; the one-room schoolhouse, built in 1873; a pioneer log house; and the Kister Building, currently featuring a pottery exhibit.
“This pottery exhibit includes rare pieces dating from 1836-1965 and will close on Dec. 28,” Gasbarre said.
A new highlight this year is Figge’s reading of “The Night Before Christmas” in the schoolhouse. Gasbarre, who spearheaded the addition, is a longtime fan of Figge’s performances.
“I was the big kid at Wooster Book Company, always staying for each of his readings,” she said.
Kelvin Bond and his elves from Friendtique/Nest will create a cozy setting for the reading. “Arrive on time,” Gasbarre said. “The story is short but magical.”
Admission is free for society members and children, with a $5 charge for nonmembers. Light refreshments will be served both days.
The society relies on volunteers and donations to support its mission. Opportunities range from guiding tours to assisting with office tasks, exhibits and IT. Donations are tax-deductible, and inquiries can be made by calling 330-264-8856 or emailing host@waynehistoricalohio.org.
Parking is available on Spink Street, in the society’s lot or in the Drug Mart lot along the fence. Stay connected via the Wayne County Historical Society’s Facebook page as its website is under construction.
“The historical society is a hidden gem,” Gasbarre said. “This holiday season is the perfect time to explore and enjoy Wayne County’s rich history.”