2009

COOL STUFF FROM THE PAST

Welcome to the 2009 exhibit "Cool Stuff from the Past." The museum has a large, eclectic collection. In this exhibit, we draw from our collections some of our unusual "oddities" rarely or never used in past exhibits.

As you enter the Museum, to your right, you will immediately be drawn to the statue of the Winged Victory. This replica was purchased for Grand Ledge High School in 1930 by the Latin teacher. Also you will find a statue entitled "One World" by Agnes Russell McLean and a Hungarian wedding dress.

In the large case, please take time to notice the beautiful Rookwood Pottery pieces. John D. Wareham (originally from Grand Ledge) was a designer and president of Rookwood Pottery in Cincinnati. Other interesting items include medals, a voting blackball box, swords, photos, and banners, from some of the fraternal orders in Grand Ledge.

Other unusual items on this side of the room include: stereopticons, a Civil War musket, a "Bunk" used to hold chairs to be caned, and a large cash register. Please enjoy the "really cool" guy in the leisure suit - groovy! As you turn to the left side, notice the portrait hanging over the desk. This is Reuben Wood, who established the first store in Grand Ledge with Nathan Allen in 1850. The desk under the portrait, and the large oval mirror opposite, were from the Wood residence.

The loom shows some early weavings. The cupboard has a display of men's and ladies' accessories. Various lingerie and undergarments are displayed by the vintage sewing machine. Also displayed are ladies' vanity articles from the 1930's.

As you enter the center room, directly in front of you is a display of musical instruments. The snare drum was carried in the war of 1812 by a Mr. Wellman, whose initials you see on the side of the drum spelled out in tacks. The city band uniform is from the 1920's. The Victrola is in fine working order.

In the glass case, there are some unusual items of glass: a knife rest, a salt dish and spoon, and a man's mustache cup. Opposite this case you will see various cameras and equipment. Above the pump organ is a drawing of St. Michael's Catholic Church (now City Hall).

Going into the kitchen, this area is dominated by a 1925 telephone operator's station (switchboard) that was used in the Grand Ledge telephone company office. Other office equipment and smaller machines take up the rest of the space.

As you go out, on the back porch, you will see different farm implements, shoe repair and shoe making equipment, a tombstone, and a roof ventilator that was originally on top of the Grand Ledge Opera House. There are so many interesting things in this exhibit. We hope you have enjoyed your visit, and that you'll bring your friends and come again.

Tours for school groups and bus tours can be arranged by calling (517) 627-5170.