Step into history

Six local museums will open their doors in unison Saturday and at no cost in an effort to get more community traffic.

The sixth annual Nevada County Museum Discovery Day will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, sponsored by the Superintendent of Schools, involved museums and Joint Chambers of Commerce.

With most museum visitors from out of town, Discovery Day is intended to encourage locals.

"The idea is to get locals to our local museums. It's a great way to find out what's in your backyard," said Judy Nielsen, director of the Imaginarium, a hands-on science museum.

People can take train rides at the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum, visit a former convent and orphanage at the Grass Valley Museum and view relics of the Donner Party and Maidu Indian and Chinese exhibits at the Firehouse No. 1 Museum.

Children can participate in a scavenger hunt questionnaire at each site for a chance to win prizes and souvenirs. Several museums have a grassy area just right for picnic lunches.

Docents will dress in period clothing at some museums, Nielsen said.

"You can certainly do all six in one day," Nielsen said.

To contact Staff Writer Laura Brown, e-mail lbrown@theunion.com or call 477-4231.