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Since 1994, the Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center has rekindled childhood memories for thousands of visitors with its Hayes Train Special model train exhibit. This year the elaborate, interactive display not only marks its 15th anniversary, but also its first-ever business sponsorship. Century Die Company of Fremont is underwriting expenses for this year’s exhibit that is open Nov. 30, 2008 through Jan. 4 2009.
The Hayes Train Special has become a tradition for families in Northwest Ohio and Eastern Michigan since its inception in 1994. Each year, the operating model train display features a different layout and new special features. This year, an eighth train has been added and with it more interactive buttons that allow visitors to control aspects of the display’s operation – like sounding whistles or raising crossing gates.
All the trains featured in the Hayes Train Special have significance to the life of 19th U.S. President Rutherford B. Hayes or members of the Hayes family. The 24x24-foot layout rises to the ceiling of the exhibit space in three tiers that include 19th century trolleys, a Victorian village, and a Christmas tree.
Another special feature of this year’s Hayes Train Special is a display of the art of Dr. Thomas Clark. A retired Michigan surgeon, Clark has earned the title “Dr. Snowflake” for the intricacy of his paper snowflake artworks. The more than dozen works in the exhibit interpret “The Little Match Girl” story by Hans Christian Anderson. Dr. Clark’s exhibit runs concurrent with the Hayes Train Special.
Admission to both exhibits is included in the Hayes Museum admission fee of $6/adult, $5/senior citizen (age 60+) and $2/children 6-12. Hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, noon-5 p.m. Sunday. All facilities at the Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center are CLOSED on Christmas and New Year’s Day.
The Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center is located at the corner of Hayes and Buckland avenues, Fremont, Ohio. The facility is affiliated with the Ohio Historical Society. Check the Hayes Presidential Center website www.rbhayes.org for a complete list of year-round special events.
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