Historical society plans drive-through ‘Tree Extravaganza’

The Pike County Historical Society and Columns Museum is planning a community event that will bring the spirit of Christmas to the community in a way that, in these uncertain times of social distancing, might be just what the doctor ordered.

With restrictions placed on gatherings, many traditional ways of celebrating the holiday season are off the table. For instance, the museum’s Holiday Open House, Old-Fashioned Milford Christmas, and even the Winter Lights Festival have been cancelled.

Instead, the historical society is proposing a “drive through Christmas” event at its museum at 608 Broad St. in Milford. The plan is to have as many Christmas trees as possible decorated and lit up every night leading to the New Year, placed along the perimeter of the grounds and parking lot for all to enjoy.

As the museum is experiencing its own financial difficulties in this crazy time, they’re asking for donations and tree sponsorships, which we will supply and set up and provide electricity for. You may decorate it yourself and place a sign by it promoting your business, or have someone do it for you — say a local artist, Christmas enthusiast, or even a Scout Troop — willing to take on the task. It is not a competition, just a community event to light up the holidays.

Proceeds from the “Tree Extravaganza” will go towards bringing home the museum’s Hiawatha Stagecoach, the historical society’s gift to the community.

Chili, cocoa, cookies

The museum will offer a “chili reception” on Saturday, Dec. 12, when the tree sponsors and friends will put final touches on their masterpieces and prepare for the tree lighting. The museum will provide hot chocolate, cookies, its award-winning chili, and libation to all participants. The trees will be lit and on display each night through the New Year from 5-8 p.m. for all to enjoy. The Columns has a drive through parking area, so viewing the display can be done from your car.

The museum will also offer a cup of cocoa and cookies to viewers on the weekend before Christmas. Visitors will be encouraged to drop off canned goods and items for the Pike County Ecumenical Food Pantry.

“This is an opportunity for all of us to share in the spirit of the holiday and abide by the rules,” says the historical society board of directors. “While we have all made sacrifices and learned a new way of living over the last eight months, it is only some innovation and good will that will carry us through what may lie ahead.”