JACKSONVILLE, Ark. (KATV) — Jacksonville has a new spot to take a stroll through the past, with a few modern touches along the way.
The Jacksonville Historical Museum held its grand opening celebrating local history and culture. The museum showcases more than 150 years of local history, including art memorabilia and interactive displays, such as a train layout designed with families in mind.
The event highlighted exhibits featuring native Kris Allen, known for winning American Idol in 2009, and Heather Baker, a publisher and longtime community leader in Jacksonville.
Museum officials said the reopening is meant to connect residents with Jacksonville’s past and bring the community together in a more modern setting.
“The last museum just really never changed. It was the same seemed like for three years,” Jerry Sanders, President of the Jacksonville Historical Museum, said. “And we try to update this one with some bigger TVs, the new exhibits from popular people from Arkansas, Kris Allen, Heather, Wilson family… and we continue, we want to continue to change that stuff out and keep everything fresh.”
The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.