News-Press Online - Arbor Day Celebration

By Grace Johnson

The Wildwood Center in Nebraska City will have something for everyone Arbor Day Weekend.
“We’re so happy the Arbor Day Committee decided to have so many events at Wildwood this year,” said Pat Friedli.
On Friday, April 27, a community tree planting will be held in Wildwood Park.
In addition to the house, Wildwood Victorian Gardens will be open, and the ever-popular plant sale will be hosted by the Tree City Garden Club on Saturday, April 28.
Admission Saturday is free. At 4 p.m. that day, a reception will be held in the Victorian Gardens to honor the Arbor Day Honoree and Tree Planter Award winner.
At 6 p.m., the Arbor Day Barbecue will be held at Wildwood Park, with live music by Dusty Blue.
Wildwood Park and Historic Home is the site of the popular Family Fun Festival, held from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, April 29. Each year the event draws families with a variety of activities.
This year’s event will feature a magician, balloon art, Make It and Take It Crafts, train rides, a bounce castle and concessions.
In the Art Gallery all weekend, artwork will be on display and available for purchase. The featured artist is Armand Gibbons. His favorite subjects are the grain bins that dot the Nebraska landscape. He draws directly in pen, and loves to do candid sketches of people.
Visitors can also browse a variety of merchandise. “Consignors for the season include favorites from the past along with some exciting new pottery, jewelry and scents,” Gail Wurtele said.
The Victorian home, built by Jasper Ware as a gift to his wife in 1869, is restored to the period of 1860 to 1880. Clothing from the period, including a maternity top, will be displayed. “The maternity top is something seldom seen,” said Gail Wurtele.
The House will be open Friday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. and Sunday from 12-5 p.m. A costumed tour guide will take visitors through the home.
The Wildwood Historic Center is open from Arbor Day to the end of October.