March 25, 2005
Barbecue!
The very word brings most kids running. And this weekend, your family can tear into a tasty load of the smoky stuff — with a little history and culture on the side.
Mesa Historical Museum’s Western Heritage Celebration will use music, dancing, live demonstrations, educational displays and plenty of sticky fingers to bring our area’s heritage to life.
Johnni Judd, the museum’s volunteer coordinator, says it’s a good double feature. "It really is a great event," says Judd, "and the meat is wonderful." Built within the confines of a 1913 schoolhouse, the Mesa Historical Museum is an overlooked local treasure. "People are surprised what they can learn about Mesa’s past," says Judd. "That’s why it’s important to preserve our history."
This year, live country music from local artist Lloyd Congers shares the bill with clogging from Jeanne’s School of Dance. A full beef barbecue, with all the fixings, will be served from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Museum spokeswoman Lisa Anderson says that between the toe-tapping and the clog dancing, artisans will demonstrate biscuit making, hand quilting and other pioneer skills.
"Families will also get to see our quilt exhibit, which is in its closing days," says Anderson. "It features 75 authentic quilts dating back to the 1800s." Admission includes lunch, entertainment and free run of the museum. Hands-on permanent exhibits include a pioneer cabin and a full-sized replica of Mesa’s first schoolhouse. Kids can have a ball learning the lessons, taste and texture of the culture that fostered their modern-day home.
Western Heritage Celebration
When: 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday
Where: Mesa Historical Museum, 2345 N. Horne
Cost: $8 for adults, $5 for children (proceeds benefit the museum)
Information: (480) 835-7358
