Belton Museum to Celebrate County's French Connections
Greg Wilson/Anderson Observer
The Belton Area Museum Association (BAMA) is celebrating the history and culture of France with their latest exhibit “C’est la Belle Vie! (It’s the Good Life),” which opens Sunday at 3 p.m.
Concentrating the influence of France on the history, culture, and present-day Anderson County, the exhibit feature artifacts from area community members’ trips abroad and local businesses with French ownership.
In addition to viewing the interesting items on display in the exhibit, Carolina Petanque will be onsite demonstrating the popular French game and visitors can try learning to play during the opening of the exhibit.
“We will also have some French pastries to taste including macarons, a sweet round French sandwich cookie adorned with a variety of fillings, and crepes, a favorite French thin pancake filled with all types of fruits and jams,” said Museum Director Abigail Burden.
The exhibit will be available for viewing through March 9, Wednesdays–Fridays, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturdays, 10 a.m.–noon, or by appointment for groups by contacting 864-338-7400 or beltonmuseum@bellsouth.net.
Throughout the exhibit, the community will have the opportunity to enjoy several cultural tie-in activities, including:
French Cooking Class: “The Best of French Homestyle,” Jan. 29, 6 p.m., at the Belton Depot, cost is $30 per person, with a local chef will conduct a cooking class featuring traditional French cuisine. Old world wine, cassoulet with duck confit, micro green salad, a variety of French cheeses, and apple tarte Tatin will be part of the culinary experience.
Home School Educational Event: Immersion Culturelle, Feb. 1, 10 a.m. – noon, $2 a student Reservations required by Jan. 31, for this immersive educational experience in French culture with hands-on activities
Theatre: “French Fairy Tales,” Feb. 9 – 10, 6 p.m., $7 admission. BHP Drama will present five French fairy tales in the round, with colorful costuming and minimal set design.
“An American in Paris” by author Kathryn Smith, Feb. 20, 6 p.m. This free presentation showcases Kathryn’s many trips to France along with tips and tidbits, stories and must-know facts shared with her audience in a humorous format.
A Night for the Museum-Celebrer le Musee! March 7, 6:30 p.m., $40 per person, $75 per couple, BAMA’s live and silent auction event for all those who love and support our small museum. With French cuisine provided by the Bradbury Bistro, wine, and music, along with bidding among friends, this biennial event helps fund infrastructure projects and educational programming for the Belton Area Museum Association.