Waxhaw: Antique tools given to museum

The Museum of the Waxhaws has received a donation of antique tools, household and farming implements from the Charlotte Museum of History.

“The majority of these items are utilitarian and will be used in our 1840s log house and homestead area,” said Sandra Glenn, president of the Museum of the Waxhaws Board of Directors. “Most items are related to the everyday life of the backcountry settler. For example: Dutch ovens, baskets, kitchen table, kettle, churn, fireplace accessories, and items for the barn and blacksmith shop.

“The Museum of the Waxhaws is delighted and honored to receive the donations of these priceless utilitarian artifacts. We plan to use the items in permanent displays in the indoor museum and in the homestead area (cabin, barn, blacksmith shop, smokehouse).”

Glenn took me into the temporary display area during a recent visit where some of the items were being prepared.

A tall tripod marked the spot where an exhibit dedicated to surveying was being prepared. Glenn said three mint-condition wooden spinning wheels were going to be part of a showcase on textiles and processes. An enormous wood and leather bellows, as well as a simple kitchen table, flanked an array of earthenware crocks, buckets and kitchen utensils.

Glenn said there were several additional items expected on Jan. 31.

“We will have to catalogue and prepare all items for display, which will occur early spring of 2013,” she said.

“This has been a very positive experience for the Museum, and we have enjoyed getting to know the staff at the Charlotte Museum of History and the professional relationship we have developed with them through the acquisition of these artifacts. … The museum received more than we were expecting, and we are most appreciative of all the items.”

With this donation, the Museum of the Waxhaws continues to evolve into an excellent teaching resource for educators who want to reinforce their classroom lessons about America’s rural past. For those who appreciate ingenuity and craftsmanship, the new collection serves as a reminder of how far we have come – in a relatively short period of time – in terms of convenience and efficiency in performing everyday functions .

First Friday

Waxhaw is providing an opportunity to start your Valentine’s Day celebration early by making it the theme of the “First Friday” event on Feb. 1.

Natalie Jackson, Assistant Events Coordinator for the Town of Waxhaw, said, “Waxhaw is the perfect place to show your loved ones a great time. Looking for a way to treat your sweetheart? How about a father/daughter date in honor of Valentine’s Day? Looking for a way to say, ‘I love you,’ without needing a babysitter? Come to Waxhaw on First Friday to enjoy romantic music played throughout downtown, free carriage rides, special culinary delights, opportunities to be pampered and great Valentine’s Day gift ideas. The evening also will be great for kids who may want to make a Valentine card for Mom or Dad. ...”

First Friday runs 5-9 p.m., Feb. 1 in downtown Waxhaw.