Last chance to see Edison exhibit

The last day to see “Thomas Alva Edison: The Person, The Vision, His Genius” at the Sparta Historical Society’s Van Kirk Homestead Museum is Sunday, May 23. Artifacts on loan for the exhibit will then be packed for their return.

Because the Van Kirk museum is a historic home, the historical society board decided to continue to open only the changing exhibit gallery, which currently houses the Edison exhibit. The rest of the house, including the out buildings, will be closed to visitors through the end of May, although visitors may stroll through the grounds to see the gardens.

Six guests at a time will be allowed on 45-minute tours. They must remain six feet apart at all times, except for those who reserved tickets together. Masks are required. If you have received your two doses of vaccine, bring your card.

Time slot choices are 1 p.m., 1:45 p.m., 2:15 p.m., and 3 p.m. on the second and fourth Sundays of the month. Masks are required. Arrive 15 minutes prior to your reservation. If you have received your two-dose vaccine, bring your vaccination card.

Upon arrival, visitors should expect a short virus protocol and talk preparing for their entry into the house. An accompanying docent will discuss the highlights of the exhibit.

The museum is located at 336 Main Street (Route 517, use middle school driveway) Sparta. To make your reservations, visit vankirkmuseum.org.

Funding has been made available in part by the New Jersey Historical Commission through the County History Partnership Program, as administered by the Sussex County Arts & Heritage Council.