A historical photo featured in the Champaign 150th anniversary exhibit. (Submitted by Bob Shair)
By Laura E. Czys
No sandy beaches in your spring break future? Looking for something new and unique to keep the kids busy? Then check out A Walk Through Time: An Historical Tribute, the first major event celebrating Champaign’s 150th anniversary.
Popcorn, balloons, and an old-fashioned candy counter will greet visitors to the exhibit’s grand opening on Friday and Saturday, March 19 and 20, at CityView in the Illinois Terminal (45 E. University Ave.). Storyteller Camille Born will tell tales from the 1860 Champaign prairie as “Prairie Woman” from 11:00 – 11:30 a.m. on Saturday.
T.J. Blakeman, chair of the Historical Committee, shared some sneak peeks of some of the exhibit’s highlights. Among his favorites are a ball and chain from the original jail, a carefully preserved registry from the first horse drawn rail line between Champaign and Urbana, and some of the period clothing from each era. These along with never-before-seen photographs and memorabilia are displayed in 30-year segments at the museum.
Boys and girls will thrill at the authentic badge collection from the police department, the display of fire helmets and the full collection of World War I and World War II uniforms. There’s also the cash register from Robeson’s Department store, historic pieces from the Rialto Theater as well as a chronicle of old photographs detailing Champaign-Urbana’s changing hemlines and fashion history.
All will appreciate a better sense of the journey through time Champaign has taken.
“Anyone wanting to experience the history of Champaign will enjoy this exhibit,” Blakeman said. “The collection of photos and artifacts has either never or rarely been seen by the public.”
Starting March 19 through April 7, the museum will be open weekdays from 4-8 p.m.; Saturdays, 10-5; and Sundays, 1-5 p.m. The average visitor can plan to spend about an hour in the museum with more time needed for the true history buff. Storytelling is available Wednesday, March 24 at 1 p.m., every Monday at 6 p.m. and every Saturday at 11:00 a.m. For more information about the museum and other Sesquicentennial events, visit www.champaign150.com.
The museum is free to the public and would be a great event to combine with a nice breakfast at Sam’s Café or a late-afternoon sweet treat. On Saturday, March 20 from 3-4 pm. Cakes on Walnut is hosting a children’s story hour; purchase a cupcake and receive a free kid’s milk.
Enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Instead of collecting seashells and sunburns during spring break, you and your family can be collecting historical facts and cherished memories right here in Chambana.
Are you planning a staycation this spring break? We’d love to hear your ideas for fun things to do with your family in the comments below.
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Nice article, and the event sounds great. Thanks.