Outdoor party launches the Great Bend Museum’s newest exhibit

RAVENSWOOD, W.Va. (WV News) — The Great Bend Museum wants everyone to party like it’s 1920.

The 1920s and 1930s are the eras that are being celebrated with the opening of the newest exhibit, “Behind Clara’s Lens,” which showcases the life and photography of Ravenswood native Clara Weisheit.

Director of the Great Bend Museum, Faith Walker, describes Weisheit’s work as “providing a pictorial history of the years between the two world wars and the amazing events like Prohibition, women’s suffrage, and the Great Depression. But she made it very personal, as well. You feel like you’re there with her.”

What better place to have a party than at Washington’s Riverfront Park, where history is on display?

To set the mood, Lady D and Mi$$ion will perform soul and rhythm and blues music. Learn to do some dances from the era, including ‘The Charleston.’ Wander on down to the large parking lot next to the Great Bend Museum and enjoy the antique car show. Of course, there will also be food with four planned food trucks, two of which are Jimmy Avocado’s and Hinode.

“It’s going to be a wonderful evening,” Addie Smith, the AmeriCorps worker who has coordinated the event, said. “Although it’s certainly not required, we encourage you to wear your 1920s and 1930s-themed outfits.”

Anyone who would like to bring their antique or classic car to the event is welcome to do so. There is no entry fee.

As the invitation says, “Whether you’re a car enthusiast, a collector, or just someone who appreciates the beauty of finely crafted automobiles, this event is for you.”

The party is free and everyone is welcome to attend from 6 pm to 8 pm on Saturday, May 17. Entry to the “Behind Clara’s Lens” exhibit is $5 and children under 18 are free.

The Great Bend Museum, 220 Riverfront Park in Ravenswood, is open Tuesday through Saturday from 12 to 4 p.m. Follow on Facebook, visit www.cityofravenswood.com/museum, call 304-273-1999, or send an email to museum@cityofravenswood.com