Museum featured in holiday tour
Bonner County History Museum
(Courtesy photo)
One of the homes that will be featured at this years’ Healing Gardens Holiday Tour of Homes, houses artifacts not people.
Sunday, Dec. 9 from noon to 4 p.m. is when these four locations will host open houses featuring extraordinary holiday decorations: Dan and Donna Deshon’s home, 829 Syringa Heights Road; Talus Rock Retreat, 291 Syringa Heights Road; the Koster home, 423 S. Euclid, and the Bonner County Museum, 611 S. Ella Ave.
The history of the museum began in 1953 when Dr. Ethel Page Westwood established the Museum of Natural and Human History in a classroom at Sandpoint High School. There Dr. Westwood displayed her extensive collection of rocks and fossils along with artifacts contributed by local residents.
The act of donating continues. On March 9, 1972, the Sandpoint-News Bulletin announced the formation of a non-profit dedicated to the collection and preservation of Bonner County’s historical heritage. In July of 1980 the new building, located on Lake Pend Oreille in Lakeview Park was opened.
“Over the years, county residents have shown their generosity by contributing thousands of artifacts, photographs, and documents related to their family and community histories,” curator Heather Upton said. “The museum has an extensive collection of over one million artifacts, and a rotating exhibit space change every six to nine months.”
Upton invites everyone to come and enjoy the spirit of the season in the museum’s gift shop and to wander through the galleries to soak up the rich history of Bonner County.
Tickets include visiting each of the locations and cost just $20. They’re available at Eve’s Leaves, Sharon’s Hallmark and the information desk at Bonner General Health. The proceeds of the ticket sales will provide the necessary revenue needed by the Healing Garden to continue to make this respite garden a sanctuary for those in need of recuperation and relaxation.
Homes may be toured in any order. Look for the yard signs at each location and please use the complimentary booties to protect the hosts’ floors.