The key to keeping folks coming back year after year is offering new themes and retaining favorite features that capture the imagination, offer educational value, and embrace the spirit of the holidays.
According to Lydia Wood, the exhibit designer and coordinator, “This year, the exhibit will host dolls representing 14 different countries and include interesting information about that country’s holiday traditions. A seven foot dollhouse will be converted into an old-fashioned post office dressed for the holiday, complete with a mailbox for children to drop off their letters to Santa. The Little Red Schoolhouse will be transformed into Santa’s Workshop with trains blowing their horns, toys galore, John Deere memorabilia and activities for kids.”
The items included in this exhibit are generously shared by members of the Southern Maryland Doll Club, Black-eyed Susan Doll Club and members of the community at large.
This special exhibit is available from Dec. 3 to Jan. 4, 2009, Wednesday through Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. Admission is $3 per adult, $1.50 per child 6 to 18, and free for children 5 and under. A Christmas Open House on Saturday, Dec. 13, will offer free admission to all to view the exhibit and enjoy music from the students of the King’s Christian Academy, Santa and Mrs. Claus, a free bike give-away, refreshments and more.
The museum is managed by the Museum Division of the St. Mary’s County Department of Recreation and Parks and the Board of Commissioners for St. Mary’s County. The museum and grounds are handicap accessible.
For more information, contact the St. Clement’s Island Museum at (301) 769-2222.