Grapevine to open new museum

Just in time for the holiday season, the Grapevine Historical Society is opening its expanded museum in the Ted R. Ware Plaza on Nov. 15.

The Grapevine Fire Department will kick off the grand opening with the dedication of 1907 Grapevine Fire Bell followed by a dedication ceremony, ribbon cutting and a speech from Mayor William D. Tate.

After the ceremony, the historical society will be offering guided tours of the new museum. Light refreshments will be served.

"Countless volunteers, city staff and the Grapevine Convention & Visitors Bureau have dedicated more than three years to restoring artifacts, detailing histories and developing this wonderful new facility, which tells the story of life in Grapevine," said Joe Anne Standlee, president of the Grapevine Historical Society, in a news release. "We are thrilled to share the story of the Grape Vine Prairie through these interactive exhibits and displays for generations to come."

The historical society contracted with Museum Arts of Dallas for the interior design and layout of the 3,000 square foot museum. It is roughly three times the size of the previous museum.

It features 2,000 square feet of exhibit space and 1,000 square feet of space for staff to curate, preserve and store local artifacts.

The museum is designed to take visitors on a journey through time starting with the lifestyles of early Grapevine settlers from 1800s to today. A few exhibits include a restored 1870s organ, three wedding gowns from different areas, and an interactive exhibit from Tate about growing up in Grapevine.

The new museum is located at 206 W. Hudgins St. in Grapevine. Beginning on Nov. 16, the museum is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is free.