Highland House Museum to host grand opening for vintage bridal exhibit June 8

A vintage bridal exhibit will be displayed at the Highland House Museum from June 8-July 27.

Have you ever come across a box in the attic filled with pictures of a wedding from the days when photos were taken in a studio, and the happy couple looked anything but happy? Maybe you found a Bible with the marriage certificate in the center, an old wedding invitation enclosed in not one but two envelopes. 

Perhaps you found a quilt of intertwined circles made from feed sack and scraps of other fabrics as well as some embroidered pillowcases in a cedar chest. Have you hear your grandparents talk about a belling but had no idea what they were laughing about? You might have just stumbled onto the remnants of a vintage wedding. 

If you are interested in the dresses and customs of weddings from the 1800s to mid-1900s, then mark your calendar to attend the vintage bridal exhibit being sponsored by the Highland County Historical Society at the Highland House Museum, 151 East Main St., Hillsboro. 

The exhibit will begin June 8 and run through July 27. Weather permitting, the grand opening on June 8 will start at 11 a.m. with the re-creation of an actual March 1803 wedding held in New Market. The groom and bride, Michael Stroup and Polly Walker, will be played by Jeff and Tara Beery, with Bob Brown portraying Squire Oliver Ross, who presided over the original ceremony.

Prior to the ribbon cutting to open the exhibit, there will be a reception in the Hodson House adjacent to the museum and a short program about the exhibit and the history of weddings.

Reservations are requested for the opening so that there are adequate refreshments and should be made by contacting the museum at (937) 393-3392. There is no charge for the wedding and reception or for the exhibit, but please note that the museum itself will not be available to tour until after the ribbon cutting. Food and beverages cannot be taken into the museum due to the nature of the exhibit. While the exhibit will encompass both floors of the museum, there will be plenty to see if an individual cannot access the second floor.

If you are unable to attend June 8, the museum will be open every Friday and Saturday from 1-4 p.m. If a group would like a special tour, they may call (937) 393-3392 and talk to the museum director, Vicki Knauff.

Publisher's note: A free press is critical to having well-informed voters and citizens. While some news organizations opt for paid websites or costly paywalls, The Highland County Press has maintained a free newspaper and website for the last 25 years for our community. If you would like to contribute to this service, it would be greatly appreciated. Donations may be made to: The Highland County Press, P.O. Box 849, Hillsboro, Ohio 45133. Please include "for website" on the memo line.