Heritage museum showcases memorabilia from everyday life HAZLETT VIEW - The Keeler Heritage Museum has been called "a hidden gem" by visitors who have explored its huge collection of vintage treasures. The museum is home to more than 30,000 items, displayed in four massive buildings on a repurposed farm complex. The exhibits represent the personal collection of Marvin Keeler, a lifelong resident of Hazlett View who has been gathering up local memorabilia since his childhood. Today, he is often seen relaxing in the museum's garden pavilion, where visitors can try their hand at operating the antique farm equipment on display. "It was Mr. Keeler's dream to start a museum," said facility manager Julia Halstead, who now leads tours for small groups. The museum's exhibits and historical timelines cover a variety of aspects of daily life in the region. Part of the museum shows off memorabilia from local industries, including an intact seating booth and service counter from Centralia Diner, which Mr. Keeler owned and operated until his retirement. A wide range of other historical items are on exhibit, from antique printing presses to old school uniforms. Exploring the museum, many visitors connect the exhibits with their own memories of past times. The museum is located at 1100 Ridge Road, just outside the small town of Hazlett View. It is open seven days a week, from 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. Admission is $8 for adults and $5 for students. Visitors should set aside three or more hours to view all of the museum's objects in a leisurely manner. The museum also offers a membership program that allows access to a range of special events. For more information on the museum, visit www.keeler-mus.org. |
