When Genesee Country Museum staged its official opening 40 years ago, the entire country held a parade.
It was July 4, 1976 – the nation’s Bicentennial.
As New York’s largest living history museum opens for its 40th-anniversary season on May 7, there probably won’t be as many parades. But a celebration is for certain.
Every visitor that comes on opening day will get to enjoy 1-2-3-4 chocolate birthday cake. And in honor of Mother’s Day Sunday, all mothers can enter free to the museum throughout the weekend.
Meanwhile, the John L. Wehle Gallery will unveil its intriguing “Forty and Fabulous” exhibit, a collection of clothing and other unusual treasures obtained over the 40 years, but never before exhibited.
Mother’s Day will also see a focus on women’s fashions throughout the 19th century – highlighted by a fashion show – as well as tastings and programs on historic chocolate. Featured is a presentation on the “History of Chocolate in the Americas” by David Borghesani, chocolate history research manager for Mars Chocolate. A concert by the museum’s Genesee Harmonic Society is also scheduled.
The 40th Anniversary theme will echo through the season.
On June 3, History on Tap: 40 Beers for 40 Years! will continue the 40th-annniversary celebration with an evening happy hour offering samples of 40 local craft beers, wines and ciders. A huge birthday bash follows on July 4 with great pomp and parade.
For more information, visit www.gcv.org or call 294-8218.
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