FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 23, 2003

Grand Opening of the Ruth Callander House Museum of Portland History

The Officers and Board of Directors of the Portland Historical Society, Inc. are pleased to announce the Grand Opening of the Ruth Callander House Museum of Portland History.  The opening celebration will be held the weekend of June 7 & 8, 2003 from 1-5 pm both days. The public is invited to help us celebrate this historic event, the opening of Portland's first museum dedicated to the town's history.  Our Inaugural Exhibit features highlights of three facets of our community’s development: Origins, Business & Industry, and Social Life. Visitors will enjoy viewing various artifacts on exhibit and pictures of Portland in days gone by.

The Portland Historical Society was formed in 1974 with about 250 members. One of the charter members, Ruth Callander, generously bequeathed her historic home at 492 Main Street to The Portland Historical Society with the understanding that a museum of Portland's history would be established and opened to the public. Over the years, many townspeople have also generously donated items for display so that Portland's history can be preserved for future generations.    As we celebrate our "Grand Opening" with a weekend of activities at the Museum, we will also be celebrating what would have been Ruth Callander's 101st birthday.

The following events are planned:  

Friday, June 6th - Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony and Reception for members and invited guests. 

Saturday, June 7th – (1-5 pm) The Museum will be open to the public for the first time. The Portland Garden Club will welcome visitors to The Betty Keser Scott Garden from 2-4 pm, with the dedication of the garden beginning at 3 pm.

Sunday, June 8th – (1-5 pm) The Museum will continue its opening events. In memory of our benefactor, we will be having a party to celebrate Ruth Callander’s Birthday. Refreshments will be served.

Due to limited parking at the site, which has been reserved for handicapped access that weekend, complimentary shuttle bus transportation will be available. Parking for the shuttle will be available at the Portland Senior Center parking lot on Waverly Avenue and the Gildersleeve School parking lot on Main Street. The shuttle will run from 12:30 - 5:30 pm on Saturday and Sunday.

After the Grand Opening, the Ruth Callander House Museum of Portland History will be open on the first Sunday of every month from 2 to 4 pm. We look forward to your visit!

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