Chelsea celebrates opening of historical museum

Members of the Chelsea and surrounding community gathered for a special occasion this Sunday. 

On June 10, the Chelsea Historical Museum celebrated its grand opening in its new building. The museum, which was located in Chelsea City Hall, has reopened its doors across the street at the Crane House, located on 41 Weldon Drive, which formerly houses the Chelsea Public Library. 

"This is truly a momentous day for our city," said Mayor Tony Picklesimer, who also thanked volunteers for their hard work in putting together the museum. "All I can pledge to you is my continued support."

The grand opening was celebrated with a ribbon cutting, and the day also marked a celebration of Alabama's bicentennial and the Chelsea community's 110th birthday. The town's first post office opened in 1908, years before the area was officially declared a city.

The Crane House was packed with community members getting a first look at the museum and hearing guest speakers discuss the city's history. Museum curator Blake Lovett, a lifelong Chelsea resident and Chelsea Middle School teacher, said the aim of the museum is to share a narrative of the city's history. The building is broken into three parts, including the agricultural room showing the start of the community; the industry room highlighting early businesses, churches and other parts of the community; and the incorporation room showing the city's establishment as a city.

Chelsea Historical Society President Tony Nivens also welcomed everyone to the event, noting that they hope to help bring the community together, both lifelong residents and those new to the city.

"If you love Chelsea, then you have a place here," he said.

The museum will be open Tuesday and Thursday from 1-5 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon.