For the past two months, Historic Wrightsville Inc.'s museum has been temporarily closed. Inside the space, located at 309 Locust St., Wrightsville, big changes have been taking place, and now you're invited inside.

A new exhibit, "Art and History: A Perfect Pairing," will debut this month, featuring some of Wrightsville's artists and art related to Wrightsville. A grand opening weekend for the museum will start on Friday, Feb. 14, from 6 to 8 p.m. The festivities will continue on Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 15 and 16, from 1 to 4 p.m., and on Monday, Feb. 17, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday's events will have a special focus for young artists and historians who will be on Presidents Day break, with creative activities to complement that tour.

"This exhibit is a completely unique take on local history," shared Jeremy Young, co-historian for Historic Wrightsville Inc. "Art depicting Wrightsville has been paired with historical artifacts in order to illustrate the town's rich history. Guests will also learn about the relationship between history and art. Other areas provide vignettes of places and events that have not been displayed for some time."

As Young explained, the exhibit started from a donated portfolio of work by Wrightsville artist Cynthia Abel. It has grown to include original pieces by Wayne Kauffman Crumling, Gardiner Criswell, Mike Seitz, Evelynn Eighmey, Darby Williammee, Klaus Grutzka, John Heyl Raser, Rob Evans and others. These works depict various businesses, bridges and Wrightsville landmarks. 

But the new art exhibit isn't all that's new at the museum. All four display rooms have been updated, Young said.

"You can still find our exhibits on the bridges, railroads, canals, schools and businesses. They will be there in a new location with a fresh look," he commented. "We have even expanded into the kitchen. If you have visited us before, you will want to return."

Historic Wrightsville has a long history in the community. It was established in 1975 in preparation for the celebration of the country's 200th anniversary.

"The organization was incorporated in 1983 to promote interest of the community; to identify and preserve historic sites; and to promote community spirit by enriching the social, educational and cultural life of Wrightsville Borough and the surrounding area," Young said.

The museum also features a diorama, located at 124 Hellam St., that tells the story of the Wrightsville Skirmish.

"On June 28, 1863, the Union Army ordered the burning of the second bridge," he noted. "There is a multimedia presentation for guests to enjoy."

The diorama only operates in in the warmer weather and can be open by appointment. It will not be open for the February events.

At the grand opening weekend, refreshments will be available each day, and a few items will be for sale in the gift shop. Members who attend will receive a gift to commemorate the exhibit.

Appointments for the opening weekend are not required, but parties larger than six people are encouraged to call the museum at 717-252-1169 to ensure enough staff members are on hand for the visit.

After the weekend, the exhibit will run through the year and will be open on Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m.