Historical Society plans weekend open house

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If you’re looking for some family fun or just something new and interesting to do, the Johnston Historical Society has your ticket ready and waiting.

Make that a free ticket, complete with coffee and a trip back in time to discover things you might not even know about Johnston.

The JHS will hold what promises to be a fun-filled Open House this Sunday, Feb. 18 between 2 and 4 p.m. inside its award-winning Museum Barn that’s located at 101 Putnam Pike (Route 44) and was designed and built by Warren Lanphear circa 1700.

Those closely connected with the JHS will tell you that non-members who have visited the Museum Barn are always amazed with the unique design and just how much history about the town is stored in the facility.

Perhaps Elise Carlson – a JHS Board Member – said it best while helping promote Sunday’s Open House.

“People have often told us they’ve driven by there a million times and never stopped in,” Carlson said. “Admit it; many people have said that out loud time and again or at least thought it as they’ve drive by our two buildings at 101 Putnam Pike. This Sunday, everyone will have a chance to come to the Open House and learn what we’re all about.”

“We collect things, we share stories, restore cemeteries and help people search their roots,” Carlson said. “In short, we preserve the history of the town!”

The long-serving dedicated JHS official added, “Why do we do all those things? We love sharing it with you, our residents. So please, accept our invitation for Sunday’s Open House. Please, stop by and have a cup of coffee with our members and you might just want to come back and learn more about our non-profit.”

A non-profit that’s rated in most circles as the most active group of its kind in Rhode Island.

The JHS Museum Barn is located at on the same property as the ageless Elijah Angell House that’s adjacent to the Johnston Fire Station on Route 44.

Carlson added that “most people know us as the old house next to the first station or that place that used to be The Little Inn that’s now Emily’s Restaurant. We will be in the museum, that big barn behind the old house. We bet you would be surprised to see what’s inside the barn – or perhaps the Angell House if you’d like a tour.”

Those who are unable to attend Sunday’s Open House should be aware that the Museum Barn is open Tuesdays from 9-11 a.m. and 6:30-8:30 p.m. and even Thursday’s from 2-5 p.m. For more information or even membership call 231-3380.

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