The Bell County Museum is a treasure trove of opportunities for local families to connect with history, science, and culture. Whether you’re exploring the permanent exhibits, taking part in one of their monthly free family events, or making use of their incredible resources like sensory bags or travel trunks, the museum offers something for everyone.
This article is sponsored by Bell County Museum.
Sensory Bags for an Inclusive Experience
For younger children and visitors with sensory sensitivities, the Bell County Museum provides sensory bags for free rental during your visit. These thoughtfully designed bags include noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses, fidget toys, a social story, a sensory discovery walk, and more to ensure an enjoyable and accessible museum experience for all.
Discover Bell County: Permanent Exhibits
The museum’s permanent exhibits offer a deep dive into the history and culture of Bell County:
- Discover Bell County: Check out the 1904 Historic Carnegie Library and explore the rich history of Bell County. This exhibit is divided into four fascinating themes: The Land, Agriculture and Ranching, Transportation and Industry, and Education and Culture. Through interactive elements, historic photos, paleolithic artifacts, and even the famous Moustache Teacup Collection, visitors of all ages will be captivated by the stories of Bell County’s past.
- The Gault Site: A Wealth of New Archaeological Evidence: Travel back over 13,000 years to the Gault Site, a significant archaeological location. Featuring murals, microscopes, discovery drawers, and an interactive dig pit, this exhibit offers a hands-on exploration of the lifestyles of the earliest peoples in Texas. Don’t miss the accompanying film, The Gault Project: An Adventure in Time, for even more insight.
- Little River Log Cabin: Step inside a reconstructed 1850s log cabin originally built near Little River/Academy, one of the earliest Anglo settlements in Bell County. Learn about pioneer life in Central Texas and admire the craftsmanship of this historic structure.
Temporary Exhibits: Explore Art and Stories
The Bell County Museum regularly hosts temporary exhibits that bring unique stories to life:
- The Vietnam Experience (On display through January 2025): Dive into the history of the Vietnam War through artworks from the Naval History and Heritage Command. Explore artifacts, archival documents, and even leave your own remembrance or story in the interactive memorial.
- Gemstones in Genealogy (On display through January 2025): Local artist Marla Ripperda’s work shines in this exhibit, showcasing her family’s history in Bell County through painting, collage, and other mediums. Visitors of all ages can also enjoy an interactive scavenger hunt.
Monthly Family Events
The Bell County Museum hosts free family events every month, providing engaging activities for all ages. Some upcoming events include:
- Homeschool Day
- Full STEAM Ahead
- Sensory Friendly Morning
- Tiny Thinkers
Additionally, the museum hosts special programs like Historic Escape Games and Summer Camps, where participants can put their problem-solving skills to the test (note: some events may have a cost).
Educational Resources for Families and Educators
The Bell County Museum goes beyond exhibits by offering free travel trunks for educators and homeschool families. These trunks cover a wide variety of history topics and are perfect for classroom use or at-home learning. The museum also offers field trip opportunities, allowing students to experience history in a hands-on and interactive way.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re a history buff, a science enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun and educational outing with your family, the Bell County Museum is a must-visit destination. With interactive exhibits, inclusive resources, and exciting events, there’s always something new to discover. Start planning your visit today and let your family’s curiosity lead the way!
