The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
I scream for ice cream and history
Historical Society holds annual Ice Cream Social
It was a step into the past at The Hickories Museum on July 9 where the Lorain County Historical Society held their annual Ice Cream Social.
With a $6 ticket, the community was invited onto the grounds of the historic home, 509 Washington Avenue in Elyria, to enjoy ice cream, food, games, a classic car show, music and self-guided tours of the museum.
The Hickories has been in the possession of the Lorain County Historical Society since 1975. Its original owners, Arthur and Mary Garford, were also the owners of Garford Manufacturing Company. The company built bicycle seats.
Executive Director Bill Byrd said the event usually draws about 700 people, but due to the beautiful weather he believed this year drew more than 800.
He also said more than 40 antique cars were exhibited.
“It’s a throwback to older times,” Byrd said. “Ice cream socials were very popular in days of yore, and we add to that the possibility for people to go through our house; which is very, very beautiful.”
The occasion proved bittersweet for Byrd, as it will serve as his final fundraiser before he steps down from his position Aug. 1 after 18 years at the helm.
According to Byrd, despite his leaving the role of executive director, he will still be active with the society. He said he may still chair some fundraiser.
His successor will be Kerri Broome, of Wellington, who previously served as director of development and publications at the Cleveland Restoration Society.
“The time has gone incredibly fast,” Byrd said. “I really enjoyed the experience. I feel fortunate to be able to work with these fantastic, historic homes. I’ve met some incredibly
The society is also hosting one free program a month to celebrate Elyria’s bicentennial. The next will be on the African American history of Elyria on at 7 p.m. on July 10 in the Lorain County History Center.
nice people.”
Byrd said he’s sad that some of the people who were involved with the society have since died.
“There was a whole crew of ladies that volunteered here when I started that just were there for every single thing we did; and they’re all deceased now except one and she’s in a senior facility,” Byrd said.
“It’s been great meeting people like that and working with them; and we’ve made some progress during my tenure,” he said.
The next Lorain County Historical Society fundraiser will be a barbecue and auction at Jack Matia Honda, 823 Leona Street in Elyria, in October, according to Byrd.
The society is also hosting one free program a month to celebrate Elyria’s bicentennial. The next will be on the African American history of Elyria on at 7 p.m. on July 10 in the Lorain County History Center, 284 Washington Ave. The presentation will be given by Shirley BrownReeder, Byrd said.