The Darwin R. Barker Museum has two current exhibits in place for the public. The Photography Exhibit presents a look at the history of photography. It includes a large number of pictures of Fredonia and local residents dating back to the mid 1800s. Also on display are antique cameras and equipment from the studio of Russell McClaren and his family, who operated a well-known business in Fredonia from 1918 to 1969.

Also in place in the entryway is “Feeding Fredonia,” including artifacts from Fredonia’s many seed companies and canning factories. In addition to the later large companies, such as Red Wing, numerous small canneries could be found on neighborhood blocks. Fredonia was home to a number of very successful seed companies, beginning with the Risley Brothers in 1833, and including the Card Seed Co. and Fredonia Seed Co.

These exhibits will continue until Nov. 1. New events will continue Oct. 22 with participation in the Harvest Moon Festival.

On Dec. 3, the next major exhibit will open. Mark Twain visited Fredonia many times, as his mother and sister resided here from 1870-1882. The Barker Museum owns a collection of Twain’s books and letters, and will present them as well photos and memorabilia. Fredonia’s own Steve Keefe will provide entertainment at the opening with his elegant Twain interpretation.

In January, the Barker will feature a lecture by author Thomas Reigstad. Prof. Reigstad’s book, Scribblin’ for a Livin’, is a fascinating look into Mark Twain’s time in Buffalo during the early years of his marriage. At that time, he had high hopes of establishing himself as a newspaper editor there.

Barker Museum is located at 7 Day St. in Fredonia, and is open Tuesdays from 4 to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 1 to 5 p.m., or by appointment. The phone number is 716-672-2114. Please visit the website at barkermuseum.org for more information and updates.