'Heirloom' event to feature vintage tools

Vintage farm, woodworking, automotive and other hand tools will be the focus of "Heirloom Saturday at the Museum," set for 10 a.m.-noon Saturday at Delta Gateway Museum in downtown Blytheville.

This month's category covers a wide variety of objects, such as saws, drills, planes, wrenches, scythes and hatchets. Other items including measuring devices, lamps, oil and gas cans, and salesman's samples also fit the theme. The public is encouraged to bring items from their own collection for others to learn about and appreciate. Coffee and donuts will be served.

"We would love to see instruction manuals, original packaging, catalogs and advertisements for your tools, as well," said Leslie Hester, museum director.

Hester notes that in this age of Mars rovers and particle colliders, many people enjoy the simple pleasure of collecting both ordinary and rare antiques. Hand tools could well be considered the father of all antiques, as manmade objects must start with the right tools, she said.

The museum will also have a small collection of vintage tools on display through the end of August. Regular hours are 1-4 p.m. Wednesday-Friday, and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturday.

Delta Gateway Museum is housed in the historic Kress Building at 210 W. Main St. For more, contact Leslie Hester at lhester43@yahoo.com or 870-824-2346.