The East Contra Costa Historical Society celebration of ECCHS Museum Day, held Saturday, May 5 from noon to 5 p.m., promises to give the folks a slant on history they can reach out and touch.

Costumed docents will conduct tours of the museum and outbuildings. Attendees are encouraged to take photos of their experience and enter them in a photo contest in celebration of East County History, sponsored by Karen Spann and The Monthly Grapevine. Winning photos will be announced and prizes awarded at the event.

Many historical demonstrations and exhibits are also planned, such as a Dutch oven demonstration featuring free samples by Gene Newberry, a display of the Byron Hot Springs Omnibus project, the newly restored caboose and two antique fire engines, plus costumed Civil War re-enactors and a battlefield tent containing period artifacts. Gold panning is one of several interactive activities provided for families.

A painting by local artist Johnny Lopez featuring a historic Knightsen landmark will be on display – and on sale at a raffle held at the ECCHS annual barbecue slated for September.

Two dance teams will demonstrate on the patio: the Delta Squares Dance Club will perform traditional square dancing favorites, and Byron Folkloric, a group of children performing classic Mexican dances, will give a special Cinco de Mayo performance.

Hot dogs and drinks will be available for sale. Admission to the Museum Day is free, and free parking is provided adjacent to the museum grounds, 3890 Sellers Ave. just south of Sunset Road.

For more information, call Ginny Karlberg at 925-513-1281 or Sam Young at 925-684-2020.