NORWICH – To encourage support of the Chenango County Historical Society (CCHS), members of the museum’s board of trustees will collectively match any donations made during this year’s “Summer Barn Party”—up to a total amount of $2,000.

New this year, CCHS is collaborating with Commerce Chenango for an admission-free gathering, to be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on June 25 at 43 Rexford St.

An evening of fun, food, and friends in celebration of the museum, the evening’s festivities are inspired by the newest Community Gallery exhibit: “Chenango County’s ‘Better Half’—The Life and Works of Randy Glasbergen.” In keeping with the theme, Binghamton’s MelMac Studio will provide demonstrations of live guest illustrations throughout the event.

During the community celebration, members of the museum’s board of trustees will actively collect donations to support the museum’s mission, with the goal to match the $2,000 total that has been pledged by board members.

“We hope that this collective investment helps inspire the community to join us in financially supporting the mission of CCHS,” said Stacey Flanagan, board treasurer. “Every gift will help us preserve and present our local history.”

Summer Barn Party guests will enjoy light refreshments provided by the Blue Star Café at NBT Bank and the Canasawacta Country Club, with soft drinks provided by Norwich Beverage and bottled water from Lowe’s. Local establishments including Beardslee Homestead, Better Daze Winery, Bittersweet Farm Brewery, Forged Brewing Company, Knuckle Down Coffee Company, Mastodon Hot Sauce, Old Home Distillers, and Uncommon Kin Cidery, will offer complimentary tastings.

The ultimate way to enjoy a summer evening, this year’s Summer Barn Party will also serve as a Commerce Chenango “Business After Hours,” meaning that while tickets are required, there will be no admission charged. Be sure to register at TinyURL.com/BAHSBP.

First established in 1939, CCHS is the area’s premier heritage museum dedicated to celebrating local culture—its unique traditions and noteworthy stories. Programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. CCHS is also a proud partner of Bloomberg Connects, an app that allows visitors to enhance their exhibit experience through audio clips, videos, and more. Download this free digital museum guide via the Apple Store or Google Play, and visit ChenangoHistorical.org for more details about this and other museum programs. While the Summer Barn Party is a free event, donations to support this and other CCHS programs are appreciated.