Des Chutes Museum marks Smokey Bear’s 70th
The Des Chutes Historical Museum is celebrating the 70 th anniversary of Smokey Bear with special displays and events, thanks to a partnership with the National Smokey Bear Association, the Deschutes National Forest, and Discover Your Forest program.
Smokey Bear: 70 Years of Fire Prevention is an exhibit of rare and one-of-a-kind Smokey Bear memorabilia spanning seven decades. Smokey’s message and image have evolved and changed throughout the years and appeared on hundreds of different objects, from Smokey Bear charcoal briquettes and lighter fluid for adults and toys, books, clothes and more for children. The only thing that hasn’t changed in 70 years is the love and attachment of Smokey Bear fans. Visitors will be able to answer the question: Is it Smokey Bear or Smokey the Bear?
The National Smokey Bear Association is sponsoring a Smokey Bear Birthday Card Contest, hosted by the Des Chutes Historical Museum. Children in first through sixth grades are invited to make birthday cards for Smokey Bear. First, second, and third place winners will be chosen in three grade levels: 1-2, 3-4, and 5-6. Finished cards should be original artwork on 8 by 11 paper; please no computer scanned or electronically generated images. Drop off your card entry at the Des Chutes Historical Museum by April 19 and join us at the birthday celebration on April 23 to hear winners and see the card entries on display. Full rules and details at www.deschuteshistory.org .
Smokey Bear’s 70 th Birthday Celebration takes place Wednesday, April 23 from 3 to 6 p.m. Meet Smokey Bear himself, kids can become official Wilderness Explorers with Discover Your Forest, meet fire fighters, check out what kind of gear is used to fight forest fires, have birthday cake, and more. The event also features a special Smokey Bear cake display. Prizes for the birthday card competition awarded at 4:00. This is a free and fun event for the whole family!
The Des Chutes Historical Museum is located at 129 NW Idaho Ave, between Wall and Bond. Please visit the Des Chutes Historical Museum website at www.deschuteshistory.org or call 541-389-1813 for more information.
