A day at Rockville Centre's museum

More than 60 Wilson Elementary School second graders recently completed a walking tour of the village with stops that included Sky Athletic Club, Chase Bank, ARTrageous Studio and finally, The Phillips House on Hempstead Ave. At the Phillips House — which is also known as The Museum of Rockville Centre — trustees gave the students and their teachers a guided tour of the home and explained the importance of the furnishings and artifacts in the house in regard to the early days of Rockville Centre. 

The trustees all agreed that this was one of the year's highlights especially because the children were so attentive, well behaved and asked some very intelligent questions. Those who escorted the students also agreed that the worthwhile experience gave the children a look into Rockville Centre's past.

With Christine Pannenbacker's class, are from left, in the back row, trustees Bill Devlin, museum President Frank Seipp, and Grace Skrzpczak, teachers Christine Pannenbacker, Theresa Cohen and Peggy McCadden, and trustees Nate Allen and Thomas Hodge.

The museum is open on weekends from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Groups and school classes can make appointments for weekday visits by calling (516) 764 -7459. The museum is open to all free of charge. The gardens are open all week long until dusk and the public is invited to enjoy an ever unfolding display of annuals and perennials. Benches are located on the property for those who wish to sit a while and enjoy the quiet of a garden. Residents may bring a blanket and a picnic lunch to enjoy a meal in a serene setting.