Local Businesses Step In To Improve The Nellie McKnight Museum

The Nellie McKnight Museum is undergoing many much needed improvements thanks to the generous donations and support from local businesses. Barber Utilities and Star Valley Construction have installed a new driveway and drop off area for visitors at the 70 Main St. property. Homestead Comfort has taken care of the museum's plumbing needs and will be installing insulation in the attic of the house museum. A much needed septic system is due to be installed this spring by Skips Wastewater Services and Kloter Farms has donated a new shed to house a Vintage Wares Shop.

Mark Maciolek, president of the Ellington Historical Society states "The outpouring of support from local businesses is incredible and much appreciated. We would not be able to reach our goal of becoming a cultural center for all to enjoy without the donations from local businesses and volunteers. It is so inspiring to be part of such a giving community"

Volunteers have worked throughout the winter to create Nellie's Mercantile on Main and new exhibits in the house museum. The classic old fashion country store features farmhouse collections, town themed Ellington décor, local artisan wares and an inviting wonderland of Christmas shop. The historic 1812 Federalist style home's new exhibits feature eras of styles, a tribute to Nellie McKnight, a wedding dress collection, vintage nursery, antique china collection, sewing and textile exhibit, kitchen nostalgia, a vintage women's clothing boutique and much more.

The Historical Society will be holding A Vintage Flea Market on Saturday May 8th from 10am-3pm. Donated items include furniture, china, glassware, home décor linens and more. Donations of vintage items are still being sought. Contact ellingtonhistoricalsociety@gmail.com to arrange pick up or drop off. The house museum, farm exhibit and Mercantile will be open during the event.

Props and Photo Ops for Prom Day will be held both Friday May 14th and Saturday May 15th before the Ellington High School Junior and Senior proms. A variety of prop options from antique and classic cars, trucks and tractors to floral backdrops for prom photo shoots will be set up at the museum. This is a free event, families and friends of prom attendees are welcome attend.

Additional information about the Ellington Historical Society and the Nellie McKnight Museum can be found at https://www.ellingtonhistsoc.org . Private tours of the museum and mercantile can be arranged by contacting the historical society at ellingtonhistoricalsociety@gmail.com