Calendar

  • February 28

    History Detectives are the Fenton's young historians for grades 4-7. The students will meet 10 times a year to discover Jamestown's past stories, people and places. Cost $8/month or $60 for the year. Last Saturday of the month Jan.-July, Sept. - Nov. from 1-3 PM at the Fenton History Center.

  • April 11

    NEW! Brown Bag Lecture Series
    Noon to 1 PM. Come hear about an important part of Jamestown's history during the lunch hour. Donations encouraged, Meets the 2nd Wednesday of the month April through October, at the Fenton Mansion until further notice.

  • May 19 - September 29

    "From Stage to Talkies; Theaters in Jamestown"
    Vaudeville, touring companies, talent shows, silent films and talkies - all are part of Jamestown's long history in entertainment. The exhibit features images, stories, playbills and more about the over 20 theaters in Jamestown's past.

 

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Lucille Ball: Not the Girl Next Door

The Fenton History Center presents "LUCILLE BALL: NOT THE GIRL NEXT DOOR" exhibit highlighting Lucille Ball. The exhibit focuses on her early years in Jamestown and Celoron and her return trips to the area throughout her career. Included are restricted photographs taken by her friend Marion Strong VanVlack, showing a touching, and human aspect of this internationally loved comedian.

Born on August 6, 1911, at home at 60 Stewart Avenue, Jamestown, New York, Lucille has often reflected upon fond memories spent in this area. Most of Lucille's childhood was spent in Celoron, New York. Here the excitement of Celoron Park surrounded her, planting seeds for her future career.

Lucille made four notable visits to the area: one in 1933, in 1944 when Grampa Hunt died (also tying in a campaign to sell war bonds), in 1946, and in 1956 when her film Forever Darling premiered at Dipson's Palace Theater. She was scheduled to come again to receive an honorary diploma from Jamestown Community College in 1989, but succumbed on April 26, following heart surgery.

Also on display at the museum are period rooms including the Fenton's Drawing Room, and a variety of exhibits pertaining to local history.

Guided tours of the museum for schools, scouts and civic groups can be arranged by contacting calling 716-664-6256.

The Fenton History Center is open Monday - Saturday 10 am - 4 pm. Admission is $8.00 for adults, $4.00 for students, and children under 3 and members are admitted free.



Looking for more about Lucille Ball? Check the Timeline of Lucille Ball's Life & Career and The Many Names of Lucy and Family pages.