KP Historical Society has plenty to see and do

Staff Report

A detailed mock-up of a spar tree plant, on loan from the estate of Dale Boquist, is on display at the museum. Photo by Colleen Slater, KP News

The history of huckleberry harvesting on the Key will be presented by the KP Historical Society at Gateway Park during the KP Farm Tour on Oct. 5.

A huckleberry cleaning machine will be displayed and a video of a local family operation will be available to view. Free booklets featuring the local history and “tried and true” recipes, samples of huckleberry taffy, hands-on activity for children and a raffle basket of huckleberry products will all be available. Proceeds benefit the society’s Peninsula High School scholarship fund.

Carrying on the theme of “Tall Trees, Tall Men, Tall Tales,” tuition-free classes designed for home school families this month will be “History of Key Peninsula Forests.” Classes for both primary and intermediate students will take place at the museum, 9 and 11 a.m., on the first four Wednesdays of October. Contact 884-1400 for registration and questions.

A special morning at the museum for dads and preschoolers will take place on Saturday, Oct. 19. Admission is free, no registration necessary, but it’s a drop-in from 9 to 11 a.m. View the logging exhibit, explore early logging equipment, participate in a craft activity and enjoy a logging camp treat of apple cider and donuts.

The Historical Society received a $5,000 grant from Pierce County for historic preservation. Funds will be used for classes, workshops, presentations and community events related to the current display of logging on the Key Peninsula.

Society board members are continuing to interview and videotape some of the older citizens of the Key Peninsula who have several generations of roots in the area.

Many books on local history, including recent reprints of some out-of-print books, are available at the museum for purchase.

The museum is open every Thursday and Saturday through November from 1 to 4 p.m., except on holidays or this month, on the day of the KP Farm Tour.

Appointments can be arranged for other days or times if needed. Call 888-3246 for information.