 Two new Exhibits: Crossing Boundaries and Winter Traditions
"Crossing Boundaries" was created by the Byron Museum of History, with the help of many people and organizations around Ogle County. Though created as a companion exhibit to the Smithsonian's "Between Fences," the exhibit is open now and will remain a semi-permanent feature of the Byron Museum.
"We created 'Crossing Boundaries' with all of Ogle County in mind," said Jessica McCanse, Executive Director of the Byron Museum. "We worked with librarians and historians from eight other communities to bring this exhibit together. We couldn't have accomplished so much without the help of these people. The finished product can now travel to other communities who wish to display the exhibit in their libraries or other public places."
Crossing Boundaries
"Crossing Boundaries" tells the stories of 10 individuals from throughout Ogle County's history. Each encountered different barriers in his or her life. Some were physical barriers, like conquering the untamed prairie in the 1830s. Others faced challenges such as sexism.
 The exhibit examines these stories, and asks the visitor:
- How do you encounter barriers in your life?
- What do you do to overcome those sometimes hard-to-see boundaries?
- How do we address the subtle "fences" of gender, social status, and race?
"During the 6 weeks we hosted the Smithsonian's "Between Fences," over 1100 people visited the museum. A majority of these visitors seemed to spend most of their time looking at our local exhibits, ---especially Crossing Boundaries-- and less time with the actual Smithsonian exhibit. It was gratifying to see that our own exhibit was so popular with visitors of all ages," said Jessica McCanse.
Winter Traditions
The second new exhibit opened in the Museum's gallery on January 31 and will remain open through March 31. "Winter Traditions" is a nostalgic look back on the memories and traditions of winter-time from the 1930s to 1950s. Antique ice skates, old wooden sleds, and pictures of Ogle County winter scenes will fill the gallery.
 The Museum invites visitors to come in, have some hot coffee or cocoa, and sit in an armchair by the fireplace as you read the recollections of area people.
"Winter Traditions" is designed to evolve a bit," said McCanse.
"We have our own collection on display and people are welcome to bring items, photos, or stories in to include in the exhibit until the end of March. Everyone has a different memory from their own winter experiences, and we want to hear them all!"
Visit the Byron Museum of History
The Byron Museum of History is free to the public.
- Location: 110 N. Union Street, Byron, Illinois 61010, 815.234.4031
- Hours: Tuesday - Fridays, 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Saturdays, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
- Website: www.byronmuseum.org
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