Museum InteriorHallett PlaqueOver 100 hundred people - including officials of the town and other historical societies - crowded onto the sunny sidewalk in front of the Lodi Museum to witness its grand opening on June 30.

Antique cars owned by Lewis Rosbaugh, Bob Covert and John Mulford were parked at the curb.

Following a welcome by president Carolyn Zogg, an original song, "Lodi," was sung by Marj Wilson Clark of Interlaken, who also performed "Bless This House."

Seneca County historian Walt Gable offered an introduction and words of support were given by Lodi Historical Society trustee emeritus Charles Jennings; historical writer Alta Boyer; Romulus Historical Society president Peggy Ellsworth; Ovid Historical Society president Naomi Brewer; Interlaken Historical Society president Allan Buddle and Nelson Delavan, Jr. represented the Delevan Foundation.

Lodi Historical Society trustee emeritus Fred Hallett was presented with a plaque of recognition for his steady oversight of the remodeling of the 1845 Main Street building sold to the society by the Town of Lodi for one dollar.

Builder Herb Austic carried out painstaking foundation improvements and leveling of the former tinsmith's shop and fire department headquarters, before adding drywall and track lighting on the inside. Woodworker Stuart Swick crafted moldings and sills throughout. Artist Chris Wolff of Interlaken, a member of the collections committee, designed and painted the sign that now graces the exterior of the building.

Kate Thomas, also a member of the collections committee and designer of The Record, worked with trustee Jim Covert, his wife Rosemary and their daughter, Jennifer, prior to the opening to label and hang exhibits and photographs contributed by the community. Mark Brown, son of the late town historians Clayton and Edith Brown, attended the opening and provided many photographs from his parents' collection, as well as a historical word search game he designed for children visiting the museum.

Trustees Mary Ellen Stevens and Noel Clawson assisted reception chair Joan Covert in serving punch and a cake made by Debbie Rappleye, as visitors viewed exhibits.

Since the opening, the museum has opened its doors to the public on Saturdays and many former residents and newcomers have stopped in to see our progress and sign the guest book