“Tell Me a Story”

to Open at History Center

            The Anoka County Historical Society, located at 2135 Third Ave. North in Anoka, is delighted to announce the opening of its newest exhibit “Tell Me a Story.”  On Tuesday, December 1, 2009 ACHS will host an unveiling ceremony, beginning at 7:00pm.  The exhibit gallery will be FREE of charge on that day and on the first Tuesday of each month.

            Everyone knows the power of a story! This amazing collection recalls the true stories of artifacts that ACHS has collected over 75 years.  Artifacts were chosen because they tell a story about the person who owned or used it or about the time period when it was used.  For example, the public may view a kayak that took its owner on a record setting journey. The shoeshine chair from Mel’s Barber Shop recalls a time when men would linger and gossip while getting a haircut, a beard trim, and a shoeshine. The “courting quilt” emphasizes that dating practices were very different 100 years ago!

            The focal point of the exhibit is a “story booth” where visitors can tell their stories to a recorder.  Either individually or in an interview style with a family member or a friend, this is the opportunity to bring in Grandpa and ask about his war years, or ask Mom how she felt to be a woman doing “men’s work,” or to ask the kids what life in high school is like today.  Participants can add their own stories in order to give future generations a clear picture of life in Anoka County both  yesterday and today.

            Participants will also receive a booklet outlining the 75 years of the Anoka County Historical Society’s efforts to chronicle local history.  From a simple display case at the courthouse to the modern brick building occupied today, ACHS has always been dedicated to collecting, preserving, and sharing Anoka County’s history.

            For additional information, please call the History Center at 763-421-0600 or visit us on the web at ac-hs.org.