Old Trails Museum offers glimpse into Winslow history
WINSLOW, Ariz. - Located at 212 Kinsley Ave., the Old Trails Museum has much to offer for people interested in the history of the West and particularly the Winslow area.
Located in the heart of Winslow's historic district, the museum, operated by the Winslow Historical Society, is housed in a 1921 bank building that retains the original marble-faced counters, mosaic tile floor, and vault and provides a perfect backdrop for a step back in time.
On permanent exhibit are collections representing the history of Winslow and the surrounding area, enhanced with rotating displays on additional facets of town life. Together they provide a fascinating glimpse into the development of this high desert community.
Since Winslow is one of 41 recognized sites on the Colorado Plateau for Columbian Mammoth remains, the museum's exhibits begin with the Ice Age, displaying locally discovered fossils from this time period.
Exhibits also include artifacts from ancient Native American tribal life, excavated locally in the early 1900s. With some items dating as far back as 1,000 years ago, the collection includes pots and vessels of various types, and a necklace that is one of the oldest artifacts on display.
Jumping ahead to the late 1870s, exhibits include items from the area's first Mormon settlement, as well as an entire room dedicated to the Santa Fe Railway, which also features Fred Harvey dishware, a Harvey Girl display, and other Harvey House memorabilia.
Other exhibits feature local animals and plants; Meteor Crater; information on local Native American, Latino, and Anglo families; area trading posts, ranches, and schools; the Lindbergh-designed airport and Route 66; medical, dental, and pharmaceutical collections; fine art and rare china; and a library focused on local and regional topics.
Many more collections are showcased throughout the year.
The Old Trails Museum is a non-profit corporation financed by city of Winslow grants, donations and fund-raisers. The museum opened officially in 1988 but has been a scaled down enterprise since 1970 as part of the Navajo County Historical Society. The Board of Directors President is Bill Mead and the Museum Director is Mary-Ann Lutzick.
The Old Trails Museum is located across the street from the Standin' on the Corner Park and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. There is no entry fee, although donations are welcome, and photography is allowed. Tour groups and classrooms are welcome with advance notice, and research requests by appointment are also accepted.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (928) 289-5861.
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