The Nelles Manor is now officially open. On Sunday May 1st, we had our grand opening for the new museum.
Support for the museum was on full display at the opening ceremony. Over 100 guests came and showed their interest for this new community museum. Representatives and councilors from the Town of Grimsby were out for the event along with community leaders and news organizations.
We have a special thank you to members of the Nelles family. We were extremely pleased to have over 20 Nelles family members at this party. This showed the great support we have had from the Nelles family members for the museum effort.
Grimsby Mayor Bob Bentley, along with house donators Barry and Linda Coutts cut the ribbon to open the house. Museum directors Bill Thompson used his great experience and charm to emcee the ceremony and Fran Chesney gave an inspired speech to the crowd that gathered on the front lawn for the ceremony.
The ribbon cutting ceremony was closed with a bang – re-enactor Phil Conklin was on hand with his replica pre-1812 musket, and fired the musket with all the noise and blue smoke that could be expected.
Afterward, guests were treated to wine and food, with lots of discussion and networking. Guests could wander through the house to see the rooms and furniture and artifacts on display at the house. Special artifacts on display at the museum for the opening day event included the Colonel Robert Nelles military jacket, original to the war of 1812. This is one of the very few remaining jackets in Canada.
A number of guests were given a special treat. After closing the ceremony with the musket firing, Phil Conklin stayed on and gave about a dozen guests instruction on the musket, and even allowed them to fire this formidable gun. Of course, powder only, no musket balls.
Wine was served from two Niagara wineries. Megalomaniac Winery, Vineland ON and Henry of Pelham, St Catherines both generously donated wine for the event.
The board of directors would like to send a few thank-you’s to others that helped with this event. The Best Little Menu from downtown Grimsby catered most capably offering many tasty bites. We would also thank Paul Bryan for the spectacular flowers. Mary Volk put on a wonderful musical treat with the harp, which enriched the entire occasion.
All in all, we were extremely pleased with the turnout and support we have felt we have had from the community of Grimsby and Niagara. We thank all who attended and showed support for the house.
This grand opening was a ticketed event. As such, it was a fund raiser for the house museum. The board of Directors were very pleased to note that in terms of fund raising, the even was a success as well, with well over $3000 raised through ticket sales to the event. All proceeds will go directly to funding the ongoing expenses of the museum.
It’s our hope that this new museum house will continue to be embraced by the community. Thanks again to all involved, a great start to this venture!
0