It's that time of the year when children ask Santa for all the newest toys.
On Wednesday evening, the Schuylkill County Historical Society will take a look at simpler toys, and guests could even have an opportunity to play with them.
Patrick M. "Porcupine Pat" McKinney, environmental education coordinator with the Schuylkill Conservation District, will take a walk down memory lane and compare past and present styles of play and toys, from 7 to 8 p.m. at the historical society's headquarters on North Centre Street in Pottsville.
"Some toys go back 200-plus years and represent popular toys at the time," McKinney said. "This will be a show 'n' tell and then a hands-on presentation for both children and adults."
Some of the Appalachian Mountain-type toys include the "whimmy-diddle gee-haw," "moon-winder" and click-clack."
McKinney presented other unique toys at previous presentations, including a "buzz saw" that is made using a small wooden disk by cutting out two small holes, inserting a long string and tying the ends. When the string is wound up and pulled in and out, it makes the disk spin.
Many of the ideas come from the Firefox series of books that focus on the culture of Southern Appalachia.
McKinney had said that all the toys have a history, one being the ball and cup that Thomas Jefferson played with.
The program is sponsored by the Schuylkill County Historical Society. Freewill donations will be accepted.
According to a press release, the historical society is a member-supported organization that exists for the benefit of those who want to take advantage of its diverse collections and opportunities to use its research materials. Every membership represents a belief in the society's commitment to preserving the history and data of Schuylkill County.
For more information about the program, visit www.schuylkillhistory.org. If you go
· Event: Old-fashioned toy display
· When: 7 to 8 p.m. Wednesday
· Where: Schuyl-kill County Historical Society, North Centre Street, Pottsville
· Admission: Free, but freewill donation will be accepted