Branson Centennial Museum grand opening and celebration set for April 1

Excitement reigns in the city of Branson, Missouri as its centennial year celebration is surrounding every ounce of preparation pouring into the Grand Opening of the Branson Centennial Museum slated for Sunday, April 1, 2012 at 1pm.  The Museum, situated at the corner of Business 65 and Main Street in the very heart of Branson, will welcome notables, citizens and visitors that day to hear snippets of speech as recited by its forbearers, have opportunity to sign a copy of the original 1912 petition to incorporate as a city, and enjoy an afternoon of street musicians, walking tours, and story tellers. 

The celebration event begins at 2:00pm with Mayor Raeanne Presley and invited speakers arriving at the Museum entrance in horse drawn carriage. Ceremonial elements, including a blessing of the crowd by Bob Hubbard, the National Anthem, performed by local George Dyer, and a Color Guard presentation by local Veterans will set the tone for an earnest but uplifting celebration for its citizens. Celebrity Ventriloquist Jim Barber will serve as Emcee, and featured Speakers in addition to Mayor Presley include Museum Supporter Leon Combs and Katie Danner, Department of Missouri Tourism. Following the formal ceremonies, citizens are invited to sign a mock version of the petition, enjoy comedy entertainment and follow a Dixieland band into Downtown Branson for more music, fun and festivities until 5pm. 

The intersection of Business Highway 65 and Main Street will be slowed to traffic during the ceremony, between 1:15 and 2:30pm. Those attending the festivities are encouraged to utilize both available city and street parking, and to come early to get the best viewing spots in front of the Museum. Seating will not be provided for this short ceremony.

The Branson Centennial Museum is the fruition of a labor of love, culminated through the work of the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce (BLACC), the City of Branson, The Downtown Branson Mainstreet Association (DBMA) and The White River Valley Historical Society (WRVHS) intertwined over the course of many years. Through the gracious donation of space from Mr. Jim D. Morris, philanthropist and local merchant, the Museum will reside at 101 Veterans Blvd in a building formerly housing Morris Oil Company. With its prime visibility, visitors and locals alike will find the museum attractive and engaging. Exhibits will remain fresh and interesting, with rotations expected on a six-eight week basis, depending on content. Some of the initial exhibits planned include “Early Branson, prior to 1912 incorporation, The White River, The Roots of Tourism and School Days. “  Curators Jim and Jean Babcock are hard at work along with many volunteers, preparing the museum for opening day.