Thanks to the vision of three dedicated community members–Melinda Johnson, Jennifer Madigan and Kim Slocum–the concept of a children’s interactive museum has evolved from an idea into a concrete plan with property secured, a Board of Directors in place, and early-stage capital campaign planning underway.

Melinda Johnson, executive director of the Jefferson DeFrees Family Center, announced that the upcoming museum will be named the Kinzua Area Discovery Center and will be located at 4115 Market St., the former Red Maple Inn property next to Ed Shults of Warren.

“The idea began in December 2023 when the three of us started dreaming together,” Johnson said. “Now that dream has come full circle, and while there’s still a long way to go, we are thrilled with how far we’ve come.”

The Jefferson DeFrees Family Center is playing a pivotal role as the major donor and sponsor of the project.

Photo submitted to the Times Observer Shown is the new logo for the Kinzua Area Discovery Center

“This new museum is only possible through the generosity and vision of our Board of Directors,” Johnson emphasized. “Their belief in what this can mean for families and children across our region is inspiring.”

The Kinzua Area Discovery Center promises to be more than just a museum. It will be an immersive indoor adventure where nature and imagination meet. Exhibit plans envision a whimsical experience featuring an enchanted forest, winding river, and charming animal friends. Designed to promote imagination, creativity, self-expression, and family togetherness, the center will emphasize playful learning, exploration, and engagement at every turn.

“There is no projected opening date yet,” Johnson noted, “but we do have exhibit concepts and potential building designs. However, we’ll need to raise a significant amount of money to make this dream a reality.”

To help support the museum’s launch, Johnson encourages community members to contribute during the upcoming Warren Gives Day on Wednesday, May 14. Donations made to the Jefferson DeFrees Family Center can be earmarked specifically for the Warren County Children’s Museum initiative.

“This museum will be a living adventure of shared discovery,” Johnson said. “And we’re asking the community to be part of building something truly magical for generations to come.”

Photo submitted to the Times Observer Melinda Johnson, executive director of Jefferson Defrees Family Center is shown signing the papers for the purchase of the land for the museum..

For more information or to support the project, visit the Jefferson DeFrees Family Center’s page on warrengives.org on May 14 and select the Warren County Children’s Museum as your donation designation.