11/22/2025
We made the front page of the Leader Times and we could not be more proud of our team of volunteers who work tirelessly to create a stunningly decorated historical
campus for the public to enjoy. We hope to see you at our Open House!
Thank you to the staff at the Leader Times for always supporting local events.
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FOR THE LEADER TIMES
ACHS to host annual Christmas Open House and Carriage House Grand opening
The event is open to the public, and all ages are welcome
The Armstrong County Historical Society (ACHS) is inviting the community to celebrate the holiday season during its annual Christmas Open House at the historic McCain House Museum, along with the grand opening of the new Jim and Ann Oakes Carriage House and a special vintage holiday exhibit.
The event will take place from noon to 4 p.m. Nov. 29 and from 1-4 p.m. Nov. 30 at 300 N. McKean St. in downtown Kittanning.
Visitors are welcome to stroll through three historic buildings decorated for the Christmas season:
The McCain House Museum, adorned in traditional holiday décor;
The historic Log Cabin, open and decorated for a cozy 19th-century Christmas atmosphere;
The newly opened Jim & Ann Oakes Carriage House, featuring the debut of the exhibit “Fantastic Plastic Vintage Christmas.”
This special exhibit showcases mid-20th-century holiday décor and collectibles from the 1940s through the 1970s, including iconic pieces from Gurley Candle Co., Paramount Electric, Royalite, and other nostalgic makers whose designs became staples of American holiday homes.
In addition to the exhibits, guests will enjoy live music throughout the weekend:
Nov. 29: Holiday dulcimer music by Nelda Martin;
Nov. 30: Guitar and violin performances by The McCarney Minstrels.
The 62nd Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry Living History Family will also be on-site in authentic Civil War period attire, offering interpretation and conversation about life during the era.
Light refreshments will be provided, and admission is free.
There will be a children’s Scavenger Hunt with pictures and questions for the kids.
Free parking is available along Vine Street, North McKean Street and behind the museum via North Grant Avenue.
“Opening the Jim & Ann Oakes Carriage House during our Christmas weekend is a meaningful milestone,” said Tyler Woodside of the Armstrong County Historical Society. “This event highlights not only our community’s rich local history, but also the stories, collections, and cherished traditions that connect generations across Armstrong County. We are proud to welcome families, neighbors, and visitors to experience a warm, old-fashioned Christmas with us.”
The event is open to the public, and all ages are welcome.
