Zane Grey museum bounces back for festival

LACKAWAXEN, PA — The Zane Grey museum, which suffered severe damage during last year’s June flood, is back in all its glory for the annual Zane Grey festival, to be held on July 14 and 15 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. During the flood, the home of the famed western writer suffered major damage to the furnace, electrical components and fire suppression systems, as well as damage to the building’s foundation. Throughout the winter, park staff put back the objects and exhibits that had been temporarily removed, and the building reopened earlier this summer.

On Saturday, July 14, Peter Osborne of the Minisink Valley Historical Society will speak on the bluestone industry and its connection to Zane Grey. Greg Giblim will present dramatic readings of Zane Grey’s local fishing stories and Lynn Dennis of Grey Towers will explain the connection between Zane Grey and Gifford Pinchot.

For those interested in early film, a presentation by Brigid Jennings of Edison NHS will talk about Thomas Edison and Zane Grey’s influences on film. Sunday, July 15 will open with Dr. Stephen Miller providing an insight into the lore and legend of the American cowboy. Park staff will present programs on the relationship between Zane Grey and Dolly Grey and a tour of the property.

Throughout the weekend, the exhibit Toys of the Past will have many toys visitors and their children can play with. Toys on display will include some that many of us played with as children, but have been around long enough that Zane and Dolly’s children might have played with them too, including Lincoln Logs, which were invented in 1914, Tinker Toys and Teddy Bears.

For American Girl enthusiasts, the early 1900s will be celebrated with stories and crafts much like those that American Girl Samantha might have enjoyed. Dolls are invited, too.

Summer museum hours are Friday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. 4:00 p.m. The museum is free of charge.

For more information call 570/685-4871.