Five experienced appraisers in locations throughout the museum will describe the history and estimated value of each item presented. They include Jacob Berner (Donnelsville) – antiques and fine art; Dan Fawcett (Cable) – collectibles; Buzz Jackson (Springfield) – military artifacts; Rob Pollock (Urbana) – mechanical music, radios, business machines and office equipment; and Greg Shipley (West Liberty) – Native American artifacts. At least one of the appraisers has appeared on the PBS TV show.

The price of admission – $20 in advance, $25 at the door – includes one appraisal and a wine and cheese “bistro” provided by Freshwater Farms so that folks can socialize during the event and tour the museum rather than simply wait in line.

Regarding the “show” component, an appraiser will be announced five times throughout the evening; he will then present a special item to those gathered in the main meeting room.

Tickets may be purchased at the museum (Mondays and Tuesdays), at local banks – First Central National, Peoples, Perpetual, Civista Bank, all county Security National Bank locations – and online.

In addition to benefiting the museum and preserving its artifacts, the event is expected to be entertaining to attendees of all ages and hopefully one that will build from year to year. This is an opportunity to have evaluated a family heirloom, an item from the attic or perhaps something found when spring cleaning.

On Sunday May 13, the Champaign County Historical Society recognized state finalists in the National History Day competition during a special program at the museum.   The Judge Evan P. Middleton award was presented to all finalists who also received a one-year membership to CCHS.

Students receiving awards were Zoey Cahall, Bryant Chamberlain, Rylie Daniels, Paige Deere, Henry Harrigan, Raegan Hepp, Michael Holland, Hannah Louck, Paige Martinez, Gatlin Ridgwell, Anna and Stephanie Selvaggio, Bree Stouffer,  Lily Talebi, Grace Ullom, and Jenna Weimer.