New Depot Museum exhibit tells Batavia’s story through quirky and unique objects

A grenade. A foot prosthesis. A painted mannequin. These are some of the quirkier items from the Batavia Historical Society's collection now on display at the Batavia Depot Museum, a facility of Batavia Park District.

The new fall exhibit “Uncovered: Quirks and Curiosities of the Batavia Historical Society” opened on July 26, and will run through Nov. 23 with an opening reception on Friday, Aug. 8, from 6 to 8 p.m.

What do a wreath made of human hair and an Italian chair from Brigham Young’s mansion have in common?

“These were pieces in the archives that didn’t have a category,” said Museum Curator Jessica Meis. An idea evolved to create an exhibit showcasing these hidden treasures, unique and mysterious items.

“We picked these pieces because we wanted to be able to tell the stories that haven’t been told,” said Museum Director Kate Garret. “This exhibit will allow people to reminisce while also learning about something new.”

There are several pieces in this exhibit that have traveled all over the world, but found a home in Batavia, including a Spyglass that came to Batavia with Captain Leonard J. Carr after traveling the seas.

“While looking at these pieces I was surprised to see how far Batavia's connection goes; we have pieces that have traveled the world and it shows off the diversity of experiences in Batavia,” Meis said.

Another surprising find is two Harden’s Star fire grenade extinguishers that were found at Batavia’s Bellevue Place where Mary Todd Lincoln stayed in 1875. They were stored on the walls of the institution for easy access in case of an emergency. One of the grenades on display still has the original saltwater or carbon tetrachloride in it.

“The fire extinguishers were such a unique find and they wonderfully tied back to the other items currently on display from Mary Todd Lincoln's stay at the Bellevue Place,” Garret said.

Along with the “Uncovered: Quirks and Curiosities of the Batavia Historical Society,” the Depot Museum is introducing a temporary exhibit, “Uncovered and Unconditional Love,” which runs through Aug. 24. This exhibit, which illustrates the undeniable love that Batavia residents have with their pets, is sponsored by Fat Sam’s for Pets in Batavia.

This exhibit was inspired by local Batavia author Peg Tyndall Jackson's story, “Sparky the Fire Dog” that was published in children's magazine “Jack & Jill.” The exhibit encapsulates the long-standing history of Batavia residents and their beloved pets.

“There is one thing that people from all generations can agree on and that is the love for pets,” Garret said. “The exhibit feels so connecting and serves as a universal human touch point.”

Both exhibits give a glimpse into Batavia's past; other quirky objects in the exhibit include everything from a Monkees hand puppet to a monkey metal bank.

“We want people to come into this exhibit with a sense of curiosity and leave with a sense of wonder,” Garret said.

Admission to the Batavia Depot Museum is always free. For more information on our Batavia Park District programs and events, call (630) 879-5235 or visit bataviaparks.org.

If you go

Where: Batavia Depot Museum, 155 Houston St.

When: Opening reception for fall exhibits: Aug. 8 from 6-8 p.m.

Museum hours: 2-4 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

Cost: Free admission