Prior Exhibits

The museum was pleased to have on display a fine collection of metal die-cast model aircraft with designs from the 1930's and on. Sleek racers from the 1930's are included along with models of WWI and WWII airplanes. Some notables are the B-24 Liberator and B-25 Mitchell. The B-25 was used in the famous Doolittle Tokyo raid early in WWII, on April 18, 1942, where the bombers took off from the Navy aircraft carrier USS Hornet and carried out a bombing raid on Tokyo and other targets. Although little damage was done, the raid proved to be a huge moral booster for the American people. Read more about the raid here: Click here - Doolittle Raid The following is from the Wikipedia and a link to the full article is included at the end. "Diecast (or die cast, or die-cast) toys were first...

In 1901, W. E. Doyle and Thomas Hanks leased the lake known then as the State Reservoir. Wm. Doyle owned the land on the east Side of the lake. They built the original icehouse with a short chute to carry the ice from the lake. It was known as "Hanks and Doyle Ice Company". The first ice plant was built of native lumber from a sawmill located in the Black Forest and owned by J. W. Higby. Harvesting ice at that time was done by men and horses. The power for conveying the ice up into the houses was supplied by horses. The ice harvest began about the middle of December and the cakes of ice were 24 inches thick after being planed. 20,000 to 30,000 tons were harvested. 4,000 tons were stored in the houses and the balance shipped to Pueblo and Denver. In 1909, Doyle bought out Hanks and...

The Museum presents an exhibit of hand carved & painted birds. These Birds of a Feather are meticulously detailed, life-size and presented in a natural setting and pose. Many are seen in the local Tri-Lakes area. Master Carver, Howard Miller has given us the opportunity to get up-close to these avian friends. So, come and flock to the Museum to see this never before presented exhibit.

The Vaile Museum, in honor of the 25th anniversary of our being located in the Vaile Library/Museum building, has presented the community with a fashion show comprised of period clothing from the 1880's up through the 1960's. The show took place on June 25th. Over forty fully accessorized outfits were presented with historical narration and musical accompaniment. The current museum exhibit features vintage lingerie and clothing from our permanent collection. Please visit this site again as photos of the fashion show and the exhibit are now being prepared for your viewing.

An old English custom, The Yule Log Celebration was brought to Palmer Lake by Lucretia Vaile and Miss Evalena Macy in 1934. They sent for a splinter of the Lake Placid, NY yule log and the first event was held in a local home. Fifty persons went on the hunt for the hidden log resplendent in red or green capes. The first yule log was discovered by C. R. Hays. He was rewarded with a ride astride the log, pulled by the other searchers. They were greeted by 200 cheering residents and visitors. Half of the log was burned with the other half being saved for the next year. A spicy cider drink called Wassail was drunk in great quantities while watching the ceremonies by candle light. Hundreds of yule log splinters have been sent all over the world to those wishing to start their own holiday...

A wide variety of needlecraft artworks including quilts, embroidery, and tatting. Our pioneer homemakers spent a great deal of time creating these works of art for the entire families use and enjoyment. The items on exhibit are truly heirlooms, made in the past for all of us to now enjoy.

A variety of clothing and items from our permanent collection illustrates the clothing, utensils, and items used in the everyday life of those people of a century or so ago.

In 1903 two guys, W. S. Harley and A. Davidson, had an idea for a motor-driven bicycle. The Rest Is History. A great exhibit of Harley Davidson memorabilia including a 71' Electra Glide.

"A Railroad Retrospective" displays many fine artifacts and memorabilia from the days when rail was the king of transportation. Many photographs, tools, and documents are on display. Come and find out what a 30 lb rail is and what it is used for then and now. Marvel at the Georgetown Loop. Now showing through November 30th.

Our display of “Vintage Cameras” highlights the exquisite craftsmanship that went into the making of these beautiful old cameras. Early cameras, some dating to 1875 are on view. The display is from the collection of Mr. Bob Smith, professional commercial photographer. The museum patron is invited to hold, examine, and operate some of these cameras and view many items used by early photographers. Now showing through July 31st.

A display of Police and Women's hats from around the world. Everything from the Italian Gendarmes plumed head warmer to the highest in ladies fashion (1950s and earlier.) We are sure you will enjoy this eclectic display of men's and women's head plumage!

A salute to our local area firefighters. This display is a hands-on experience where a firefighter's outfit and helmet can be tried on and worn. Hoses, nozzles, axes, tools and oxygen tanks can be lifted to feel just how much weight the firefighter must bear in doing their work. Photographs show actual fires being fought, training exercises, and the many community services performed by our local Palmer Lake Volunteer Fire Department. Free literature and other handouts are available to learn more.