The East Contra Costa Historical Society (ECCHS) invites the public to its Community BBQ at the museum on Sunday, Sept. 9 from 2 to 6 p.m. The annual event is the major fundraiser for the operations of the society and its Byer/Nail Museum. The ECCHS receives no government funding.

In addition to being open to the public on weekends, the museum plays an important role in the East County elementary school curriculum during the week.

The BBQ features toe-tapping music by the Brentwood Community Band from 2 to 4 p.m. and Rod Linn and The Buzzards from 4 to 6 p.m. on the museum’s front porch. Activities include tours of the Byer-Nail House Museum, an extensive Civil War exhibit, blacksmithing demonstrations by Danny Love, and spinning wheel demonstrations by the Brentwood Spinners. New interactive experiences for kids include egg collecting at the chicken coop and an archeological dig pit.

Youngsters also can try their hand at gold panning, milking a cow or getting their picture taken on the historic 1947 fire engine.

Dinner is served beginning at 4 p.m., and features tri-tip barbecue with locally-grown corn, tomatoes and beans, plus rolls and dessert. A no-host bar will be open the entire afternoon.

Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children 6-12; kids 5 and under are admitting for free. Mail a check to the ECCHS at P.O. Box 202, Brentwood, CA 94513 or call Shirley McCall at 925-634-4049. Parking is free.

The museum is located at 3890 Sellers Ave. just south of Sunset Road on the eastern edge of Brentwood.