New exhibits spotlight early Elgin

The Elgin Area Historical Society's annual exhibit opening will take place from noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, March 14.

There are four new exhibits: "River to Rails: Elgin in the 1850s and 1860s"; "Explore Elgin Area Architecture"; "Time from the Stars: 100 years of the Elgin Observatory"; and "A Tisket, A Tasket: Collection of Baskets."

The open house includes a program from 1 to 2 p.m. with Elgin preservationist Dan Miller about Elgin's architecture and its variety. From 2 to 3 p.m., there will be demonstrations and hands-on activities at each of the new exhibits.

The Elgin Area Historical Museum, 300 Park St., is housed in an 1856 landmark building known as Old Main that was once part of the Elgin Academy. It is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Through permanent and changing exhibits, the museum brings to life Elgin's heritage.

Permanent exhibits include Elgin National Watch Company, the E. Maude and Carl Parlasca Native American Collection, and Elgin Road Race memorabilia.

The museum is open from noon to 4 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday. For details, call (847) 742-4248 or visit elginhistory.org.