EXPERIENCE HISTORY WHEN YOU STOP TO VOTE

On Tuesday November 4th, for those of us who step behind the curtain in the Clifford polling site, we will also be literally surrounded by some of the wonders of our local history. Outside the Clifford Community Center, see the flag walkway and the memorial markers. Inside the walls are now ablaze with color and tales of yesteryear. Numerous photos are hung on the walls depicting some of the people who once lived in the area, many of whom are friends, neighbors, or relatives of current residents. Look closely… you might spot someone you know. Among the pictures that hang throughout the museum, artist Michelle Jaconia McLain has painted vividly colored oversized murals that take visitors back in time to Clifford’s original settler, Adam Miller and his family in 1799. Another painting depicts the lives of Native Americans in Northeastern PA. This particular picture shares the display of an authentic Native American dugout canoe from the 17th Century that was discovered in the Township several years ago and was generously donated to the CTHS by Township residents Jim and Valerie Cole. In two adjacent rooms, the CTHS has displayed countless vintage artifacts and collectibles that local residents have found in their attics, back rooms, basements, and barns. Arranged as a kitchen, bedroom, general store, and an authentically replicated blacksmith shop, the life and history of Clifford Township beautifully and artfully comes to life. Every piece, each item, the family photos, books, furniture, pottery, and more tell stories of their own. Complimenting the displays, the CTHS also offers a wide variety of items for sale. Note cards and historical postcards, DVDs, collectible photo calendars, and ornaments, CTHS baseball caps and mugs, two well researched books by local historian and author Pat Peltz, along with jams and jellies made by CTHS’s volunteers. All items are nominally priced and make wonderful gifts for the upcoming holiday season. While the CTHS counts on the generosity of donors, sponsors, and matching grants, the additional funds raised through these sales go to the CTHS and their various projects. Several years ago, the CTHS restored the Township’s Hoover School, and their current project is the renovation of the Yarns Cider Mill. The museum will be open to welcome visitors during Election Day and is open year-round the third Sunday of each month, from 1-4pm. The Hoover School and the Clifford Baptist Church are open May through October, also on the third Sunday of each month, from 1-4pm. All facilities are staffed by CTHS docent-volunteers who are available to answer questions and share their knowledge of local area history. cliffordpa.com