MINDEN — Dangberg Home Ranch Historic Park invites the public to a special exhibit of historic toys, games and holiday decorations from the 1870s through the 1940s.
Highlights of the exhibit include board and card games from the 1870s and 1880s that were used by Fred Dangberg Jr. and his siblings, as well as numerous toys enjoyed by Fred’s five children in the first years of the 20th century. These include a fully furnished, homemade dollhouse, a small wood-burning cook stove, a child’s drop-front desk and a miniature tea cart. A variety of dolls, handmade doll clothing and doll accessories will be shown. The creative side of children’s play will be explored with a display of puzzles, building toys, paint sets, crayons and coloring books dating from 1900 to 1945.
“The exhibit is great fun to prepare,” said Park Interpreter Mark Jensen, “There are so many fascinating toys and games in the collection that it’s difficult to leave anything out. Just as intriguing are the stories connected with those toys. Volunteers decorate the house with vintage ornaments.”
During the event, volunteer pianists will fill the house with music playing the Dangberg’s 1916 grand piano.
“It’s like stepping back in time,” Jensen said.
The exhibit will be open from noon to 4:00 p.m. on Friday, December 4, through Sunday, December 6. Admission is $3.00 for adults and free for children 12 and under. Visitors should dress in warm clothing.
The park is located at 1450 Highway 88, one-half mile south of the Carson Valley Swim Center. A map and other information about the park can be found at parks.nv.gov/hr.htm or by calling 775-783-9417. Regular tours will not be offered during the exhibit.
