The Zane Grey Museum reopens

LACKAWAXEN n The Zane Grey Museum has reopened for the 2007 season after repairs to flood damage during the June 2006 Flood. The home of famed western writer, Zane Grey, suffered major damage to the furnace, electrical components and fire suppression systems, as well as damage to the building’s foundation. Throughout the winter park staff put back the objects and exhibits that had been temporarily removed. Work began as soon as the flood waters receded and was completed by mid-November. Visitors to the area may once again see the famed Morris chair where Zane Grey did most of his writing. Summer museum hours are Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors can learn about the writings of one of our country’s most popular writers in the first half of the 20th century. We invite you to sit on the porch and enjoy the same view that Zane Grey and his family had of the Delaware River. To celebrate this grand reopening the museum will be open on July 4th with extended hours to 8:00 p.m. The museum is free of charge. The museum will also host the Zane Grey Festival. On Saturday, July 14, Peter Osborne of the Minisink Valley Historical Society speak on the bluestone industry and its connection to Zane Grey. Greg Giblim will present dramatic readings of Zane Grey’s local fishing stories. Lynn Dennis of Grey Towers NHL will explain the connection between Zane Grey and Gifford Pinchot. For those interested in early film, a presentation by Brigid Jennings of Edison NHS will talk about Thomas Edison and Zane Grey’s influences on film. Sunday, July 15 opens with Dr. Stephen Miller providing an insight into the lore and legend of the American Cowboy. Park staff will present programs on the relationship between Zane Grey and Dolly Grey and a tour of the property. Festival hours are July 14 and 15 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The exhibit Toys of the Past contains many toys that you and your children can play with. For all those American Girl enthusiasts, come help us celebrate the early 1900’s with stories and crafts much like those that American Girl Samantha might have done. Bring your dolls so they to can have a little fun! Toys that many of us played with as children were the same as Zane and Dolly’s children might have played with. Your children are probably experts at building forts and castles; but did they know that Lincoln Logs were invented in 1914? Take a trip back in time or relive your childhood, and play with Tinker Toys, Lincoln Logs and Teddy Bears. For more information about the Zane Grey Museum or the Zane Grey Festival, please call Education Specialist Ingrid Peterec at 570-685-4871.