Strings, Things and Notable Staff

            The Anoka County Historical Society is proud to announce the opening of its latest exhibit, “Strings, Things, and Notable Staff.”  This is the third in the “Sounds of Anoka County” series and will focus on orchestra conductors and music educators.  The public is invited to view the exhibit without charge on Saturday, July 10th, from 10:00am to 4:00pm as part of Anoka’s Riverfest celebration.

            The exhibit will highlight the contributions of local musicians who have been leaders in promoting music and music education in Anoka County.   Kenneth Davenport, for example, was the Assistant Principal Bass in the Minnesota Symphony Orchestra for many years. Thaddeus Giddings was responsible for starting Interlachen Music Camp.  Ruth Hallenberg and Charles “Chuck” Olson were also leaders who made significant contributions to music in our community.

            This unique exhibit has been researched and produced by the music committee at the Historical Society, who have been eagerly searching out artifacts and memorabilia from Anoka County’s many orchestral music endeavors.  They uncovered a story about a bass cello, owned by Kenneth Davenport, that can be traced back to its 17^th century creator and was played at the court of the Russian Czar, before being hidden in a hay wagon and smuggled out. Patrons will want to view the exhibit to learn its exciting story.

            The Anoka County Historical Society, organized in 1934, is headquartered in the Anoka County History Center and Library at 2135 Third Avenue North in Anoka. For more information on its programs and activities please visit www.ac-hs.org or look for us on Facebook.