Photo submitted to the Times Observer Pictured are Sharon Johnson and Sue Johnson.

The Elk Township Historical Society will open its museum from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday – opening a window into the past.

Housed at the four corners in Scandia, the museum is brimming with early historical antiques, artifacts, and collectibles that tell the story of life in Elk Township. One of the highlights is the fully restored 1800s one-room schoolhouse, where visitors can take a seat at the teacher’s desk, ring the old school bell, or even experience the infamous paddle – strictly for show, of course.

Children and adults alike can squeeze into original wooden student desks and write on slate chalkboards. Visitors can also browse more than 100 years of school records and photographs, many of which include names and faces of community members who attended one of the 12 schools that once served Elk Township. Long-time locals may even recall fetching water by the bucket from the nearby Scandia Store.

Although the outhouse is a relic of the past, indoor restrooms are available for modern comfort. The museum also houses extensive cemetery records, obituaries, and notebooks documenting early families who made their lives in the region, making it a must-visit for genealogy enthusiasts.

In addition to exploring local history, visitors will enjoy a special live demonstration of pine needle basket weaving by Sharon Johnson and Sue Johnson. This unique craft is believed to have been practiced by early Seneca residents along the Allegheny River long before the construction of the Kinzua Dam.

The open house is free and open to all. For younger guests, pickleball will be available (sneakers required, and a parent must be present at all times), and the playground offers additional fun and games.