Kennard Balme, Volunteer

The museum recently hosted a Local History Forum sponsored by the Daphne Public Library. Melissa Butler McNichol chronicled her Harrison family history beginning with their migration to Alabama in the 1850’s, and the settling in Daphne of her great grandparents, Lydia and Columbus Harrison, in 1917.

The highlight of her presentation was the reading of some of the letters written by family members during the Civil War. The family donated the original letters to the museum and copies have been made for viewing by the public.

Pictured, adjacent to the spinning wheel used by Lydia Harrison, and in front of the display case housing other artifacts donated by the family, are descendants of the Harrison family who still reside in Daphne. Standing are Marilyn Gregorious Evans, Melissa, Camilla Hanson Butler, and Ida (Tot) Bertnagnolli Brantley; seated are Polly Hanson Gregorious and June Bertagnolli Pruett.

In addition to the above event, two groups have recently toured the museum. Museum volunteers Doris Allegri and Mickey Boykin conducted a tour of the cemetery and museum for the members of Pack 321, Tiger Cub Scout Den II, together with parents and den leaders. Visiting a museum was one of the requirements toward earning an advanced badge.

Pictured, with den leaders Neil Chisholm and Robby Harbison, are Tiger Cubs Shaun Chisholm, Jackson Corley, Connor Fisk, Garrett Harbison, Hunter Henton, Patrick Johnson, and Rickey Parker, in no particular order.

A tour of the museum and cemetery was also conducted for a group from theOrange Beach Senior Citizen organization by volunteers Lucy Cunningham and Emily Hammond.

The latest display on exhibit is a variety of early 20^th century textiles, including bed covers, clothing made from feed sacks, old patterns, buttons, and other objects that were used in the process of creating these articles, all of which were made by, used, and/or worn by Daphne residents.

The museum strives to carry out its mission to preserve the heritage of the citizens of Daphne through exhibits of records, artifacts, photographs, and other memorabilia, as well as hosting special events. It is open to the general public each Friday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoons from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Special tours may be scheduled by calling Lucy Cunningham at 625-4300.

The museum is located at 405 Dryer Avenue. Admission is free.