The Greater Monessen Historical Society Gets Ready for Christmastime

Last Updated on Wednesday, 26 November 2014 03:00

The Greater Monessen Historical Society will participate in the official Monessen Christmas celebration on Saturday, December 6 at Monessen Public Library and Cultural Center. Santa will be present from 1 to 4 p.m. to have his photo taken and listen to the wish lists of all children.

The photos will be printed and mailed to each child with a special letter from the jolly elf compliments of GMHS.

Dr. Malcolm Weiss has loaned several pieces of his art collection to the Heritage Museum. The works showcase the industrial heritage of Southwestern Pennsylvania and are done by regional artists. Visit the museum to see the artwork during regular business hours.

The Historical Society is searching for donations of antique Christmas decorations to use in the front display windows of the Monessen Heritage Museum. Items can be dropped off during regular business hours, Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.

The GMHS open house holiday celebration will be held on Saturday, December 20 from noon until 3 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. Public welcome.

The Heritage Museum will be closed from December 22 until January 2, when it reopens.

The spring exhibit will showcase Monessen's once-large Finnish community. Anyone having photos or memorabilia from Finnish families, neighborhoods, businesses or events are asked to bring them to the Museum during regular business hours. Items can be either loaned or donated. Photo scans can be emailed to Monessen@verizon.net.

Membership in the Historical Society is based on a calendar year of January through December and is $15 for an individual, $20 for a family and $50 for a business or organization. Please renew your membership today or give a gift membership to someone.

Consider donating to the Annual Fund Appeal. Donations are used to preserve local history, maintain the museum and sponsor events throughout the year. The Museum Annex project will allow room for larger events and give space for a permanent Monessen exhibit. The interior needs new electrical, plumbing, heating, cooling, as well as dry wall and flooring to make it usable. Please be generous.