Former Breton Village Holiday Train on Display at Museum

Former Breton Village Holiday Train on Display at Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum 
rom December 1, 2019 to January 5, 2020.

For the second year in a row, the train exhibit formerly on display at Grand Rapids’ Breton Village Mall has settled into its new home in the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum. The extensive collection of train engines, cars, and the surrounding village and scenery was donated by the DeVries family last year. Since that donation, a team of Museum staff and dedicated community volunteers have worked side-by-side to restore the display and add some new touches as well.

A new addition this year is a circus scene complete with a big top, a circus trolley, and moving rides. Also new this year, are a few structures that reflect historical landmarks both in Grand Rapids and in the life of Gerald R. Ford: the Pantlind Hotel, Ford Paint & Varnish Co., and the Quonset hut that served as headquarters for Ford’s congressional campaign. The Quonset hut and paint company structures were both handmade from scratch by volunteer, Larry Avery.

The train exhibit opened December 1st at the Museum’s Holiday Open House and will remain on display through the beginning of January. Regular admission applies except during the two-week school break running from December 23rd through January 3rd when the Museum is offering free admission.

Each Friday morning, a special program for young children will be offered with train-themed stories and songs. This program is presented in partnership with the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, and the Grand Rapids Public Library.

We invite you to include a visit to this treasured icon as you make holiday memories with your family this year!

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This