N.GRAFTON — In celebration of its 50th anniversary, Willard House and Clock Museum is rolling out a variety of engaging programs and events, starting this April.

“While Willard is known as a center of expertise for horological subject matter, we are also a museum of 18th century life in all of its facets. Some of my personal favorites are period music, entertainment and eating birthday cake in celebration of Simon Willard’s 269th birthday! We are always looking for events which add a new dimension, above and beyond horology to attract diverse interest in the museum among our community,” says Executive Director and Curator, Robert C. Cheney, “a museum’s 50th anniversary is a rarity among small museums today and is a worthy milestone for a celebration.”

The museum is kicking off the celebration with Simon Willard’s 269th birthday on Saturday, April 2, from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. Visitors can enjoy birthday cake, special tours and children’s activities.

Mr. Potter’s 19th Century Magic Show comes to the museum on Saturday, April 23, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Veteran magician, Robert Olson, brings Richard Potter’s 1800s magic to audiences, using original and recreated props (cards, coins, ribbons and boxes) as well as costumes and the language that was used during that period-– all used to carry the audience back in time. His prior appearance here was standing room only! Learn more about Richard Potter: https://geniimagazine.com/wiki/index.php?title=Richard_Potter

Though a generous donation from Gaudette Insurance of Whitinsville, award winning Americana string band, Grain Thief kicks off the Willard House & Clock Museum Music Series on Saturday, April 30, from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. Weather permitting, the performance will be held in the Willard barn. Weather not permitting, the concert will be held in the museum’s main gallery. Check out Grain Thief: https://grainthief.com/home.