Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum showcasing Hess’s history
The Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum will host a holiday program titled “Relive Hess’s Department Store: Through Three Generations of Shoppers” on Saturday, Nov. 7, at 1 p.m.
“No store in America could rival the magic of a visit to Hess’s Department Store, especially at the holidays,” said James Higgins, Ph.D., executive director of the Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum.
Drawing on the experiences and memories of three generations of shoppers, historian Kathy Long’s lecture will recreate the spirit of awe and excitement that once drew countless national celebrities to Allentown, including Johnny Carson, Rock Hudson and the original Superman, George Reeves.
Long will articulate the excitement and wonder that shoppers in her family and thousands of others experienced year after year. Above all, one generation to another, Hess’s brought families together for the holidays, featuring fashion shows, eccentric products and lavish dining. The public was kept in awe.
Long is a prominent Lehighton historian, professional storyteller and vice president of the Lehighton Area Heritage Alliance. She will bring her creative insight and historical expertise to the stage to celebrate the magic and memories of “Hess’s Department Store,” an icon of incredible stature and awe.
The Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum is a teaching institution that attracts a diverse audience. Its collections of historical Americana, located primarily at its headquarters, the Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum, 432 W. Walnut St. in Allentown, include over 35,000 three-dimensional objects, 3 million documents and more than 200,000-plus vintage photographs.
Regular museum hours are Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Regular admission is free to members, but there is an entry fee for nonmembers. Children under 3 are free.
For more information, contact Higgins at 610-435-1074.