Colorful nutcrackers will enhance the holiday decorations at the Brick Tavern Museum this year.
Watkins Glen collector Nick Crosby is sharing his enchanting treasures for an exhibit through Dec. 23.
Crosby has been collecting nutcrackers since the age of 6, when he received his first as a Christmas present.
Appreciating the beauty and fun of nutcrackers is a family tradition. His mother, Cindee Frederick Crosby of Watkins Glen, also collected nutcrackers. Many of his nutcrackers were passed on to him from the collection created by his grandfather, Bob Frederick of Watkins Glen, and his late grandmother, Doris, Crosby said.
From 3-inch pieces to some reaching 3 feet, Crosby’s collection now holds nearly 300 nutcrackers, Crosby said. He expects that number will increase this holiday season. During the year, most are stored away, but not all.
“A few old ones are left out. They’re kind of special,” said Crosby, whose collection includes nutcrackers from Germany and some celebrating other holidays, such as Halloween.
Crosby’s nutcrackers have been displayed at the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel and the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce Visitors Center and in the windows at Watkins Glen Promotions on Franklin Street.
The Brick Tavern Museum, located at 108 N. Catharine St., Montour Falls, is open on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Thursday from 2-8 p.m. Admission is free.
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