Offering something for everyone; McKinley Presidential Library & Museum more than just another attraction
By Jennifer R. Demuth
While it’s true that the words “presidential library” don’t exactly create excitement for most, visitors to the McKinley Presidential Library and Museum (adjoining Canton City Parks at 800 McKinley Monument Dr. NW, Canton) will be pleasantly surprised to discover that the attraction is anything but boring. With hands-on science exhibits, the ability to experience a tornado, just about anything you ever wanted to know about our nation’s 25th president, and a new million-dollar exhibit, this is one presidential library and museum that is sure to please adults and children of all ages.
As a privately owned entity, the McKinley Presidential Library and Museum is home to the largest collection of McKinley artifacts in the world. However, the historic site isn’t just for history lovers. The on-site interactive science center is also a popular venue. “The McKinley Presidential Library and Museum features presidential and Stark County history, an interactive science center, a planetarium and a life-sized street of shops from the early 20th century,” explained Joyce Yut, director of the library and museum. “We also own and care for the McKinley National Memorial, entombment site of our 25th President William McKinley, First Lady Ida McKinley and their two young daughters.”
At the street of shops, visitors can view an 1888 Ahrens Steam Pumper, a full-scale model train layout, and more. Kids will enjoy trying their luck at sliding down a real fire pole at the attraction’s fire station replica. At the Industrial Hall, interactive exhibits teach visitors about the history of industries like Hoover, Timken, Sugardale and the American Electric Power Company, all of had or have locations in Stark County.
Kids are most likely to enjoy the attraction’s Discover World and Hoover-Price Planetarium where they can have fun with physics, electricity, astronomy, paleontology and ecology. Included at Discover World are the popular full-size allosauraus dinosaur and a walk-in tornado. Through August 30, the museum is also showcasing a Smithsonian traveling exhibition, The Working White House. Visitors can learn from archival and contemporary images, videos, and fascinating oral histories of White House employees who have served presidents from William Taft through George W. Bush.
This fall, the museum will celebrate the opening of a new one million dollar permanent exhibit that will highlight the 200 year history of Stark County. The new exhibit will open to the public on Sept. 26 with special activities planned for the day.
From November through January, the museum will host a Life in Miniature temporary exhibit, featuring dollhouses and miniatures from the museum’s collection, as well as pieces on loan from the Stark County community.
To discover why the McKinley Presidential Library and Museum is a treasure amongst Stark County attractions, plan your visit today. The attraction is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors and $5 for children. Children who are 2 years old or younger receive free admission. Visit www.mckinleymuseum.org for more information.
