“The melting pot,” a grand gala hosted by the Cecil County Arts Council, kicked off the arrival of the Smithsonian’s traveling exhibit, “Journey Stories” in Cecil County yesterday. As the evening got underway, downtown Elkton shops remained open to celebrate the occasion.
For July, it was a comfortable evening as those doors opened to greet a gathering of over 300. Enjoying the professionally curated exhibit, along with performances by the Heritage Troupe, this crowd filled the cultural center on E. Main Street. Out in the street, enjoyable original music flowed while people strolled along, stopping at businesses to sample fine foods and browse the merchandise.
It was delightful to see the business area filled with strollers, enjoying the ambiance of the evening, the entertainment and the display, while sampling local delights offered by seven restaurants. Strollers paused, as they passed from shop-to-shop, enjoying an old Main Street.
This was a wonderful demonstration project for the community. Hundreds of patrons made the county seat a destination and were introduced to an old Maryland community’s town center. After the show, a number of the older businesspeople remarked about how surprised they were with the turnout and how they too enjoyed the evening. It reminded them of a time long ago when Main Street was bustling place on shopping nights.
Thank you Cecil County Arts Council for sponsoring this fine gala opening. Now look forward to a full calendar of events sponsored by all the collaborating groups, including the Cecil County Public Library and the Historical Society.
“Journey Stories,” a Museum on Main Street exhibit, is brought to the state by the Smithsonian and the Maryland Humanities Council.
