08-05-2025
Tioga County Historical Society reopens with brand new look
OWEGO, NY (WIVT/WBGH) – The Tioga County Historical Society is preparing to show off its brand new look following months of interior renovation.
The museum on Front Street in Owego is holding a grand reopening party this weekend.
Over the past 4 months, major upgrades and reorganization has occurred in the 65 year old building.
There's new carpet and flooring throughout and the research center and gift shop have been moved to the upper floor, in part to protect them from potential flooding by the nearby Susquehanna River.
The Historical Society is also celebrating the opening of 3 new exhibits: one focused on Abraham Lincoln, another on agriculture and textiles and the third looking at the hsitory of Earth Day.
Executive Director Gerry Smith says it's his job to bring these stories from the past to life.
'I get to tell stories, because that's what I always considered myself, a storyteller. They'll ask a question or they'll push the button and watch video segments explaining the stories here. Because I tell people there are 6 main themes, they all revolve around the Lincoln portrait and Kevin Bacon has nothing to do with it,' he said.
The Lincoln exhibit, titled 'Now He Belongs To The Ages' is centered around a portrait of the president based on a photo by the legendary 19th Century photographer Matthew Brady and its connection to Owego.
A Grand Reopening fundraiser will be held from 6 to 8 on Saturday featuring music by Rick Pedro and food from the Cellar Restaurant.
There is no admission fee, but good will donations are encouraged.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WIVT - News 34.
