On April 1 at 7:00 p.m.,  the W.K. Gordon Center in Thurber will be hosting a Museum after Dark Spring Ball informal evening program. The event will be completely free of charge to those who attend.

“Every semester, the Gordon Center hosts a Museum after Dark event as a fun way to bring people to the museum. In the past, we’ve had flashlight tours and scavenger hunts, but we wanted to change things up a little this semester and offer a space for music and dancing,” Shae Adams, Assistant Curator at the Gordon Center, said.

“In the early 19^th Century, the R.D. Hunter Fishing and Boating Club hosted dances for some of Thurber’s residents. These dances were opportunities for hard working people to relax and enjoy time with their neighbors,” Adams said. “We wanted to model our event after the Hunter Club balls to show a side of history that doesn’t always get talked about: the everyday lives of people similar to ourselves.”

The entire event is free and free music and food will be provided. This event is appropriate for all ages.

“At this event, we will have the museum decked out with spring decorations and lights. Attendees will be invited to sample our food selection and will be encouraged to enjoy the museum and our new touchscreen exhibits,” Adams said. “We are lucky enough to have four Tarleton musicians who will be playing live jazz music from the 1920s and 1930s. Guests who feel inclined will be welcome to dance the night away on our dance floor, although dancing is not required for this event. Really, we just want people to enjoy themselves and have a chance to see the museum in a different light.”

There are no reservations for this event, so all students have to do is show up. Free transportation for Tarleton State University students will be offered. To be added to the ride list, contact [email protected] or 254-968-1886.

The event does not have a dress code, so Adams said dressed for an evening of dancing. If you are comfortable in a t-shirt and jeans, Adams said you can come in that or get dressed up in formal wear.

“This is going to be a fun event and one that we aim at Tarleton students. The museum is a free resource for Tarleton students and not many on campus know that we’re out here,” Adams said. “We want to use this event to show off all that the museum has to offer and we hope to have a great crowd for this fun evening!

“Anyone who thinks that a night of live jazz music and free food sounds like a fun time can attend!”