McDowell-Phillips Museum opens up for open house tours for the winter

MEDINA — The Medina County Historical Society opened up the McDowell-Phillips Museum for open house tours during the 2022 holiday season. The McDowell-Phillips Museum is a mansion that has been converted into a historical museum for preservation of Medina County history, and features old literature, architecture, and records in its historical political past. "It's an appreciation of our history. Many people have admired this house for years," said Medina County Historical Society President Brian Feron. "So a lot of it is curiosity." Feron and other members of the Medina County Historical Society have begun giving tours for the McDowell-Philips Museum's open house tours, hoping to share knowledge of Medina County's history with guests and visitors. Feron said that the museum helps the local economy by bringing in people from outlying towns, villages, and cities to learn. "If you come to tour here, you'll get something to eat nearby," said Feron. The revamped mansion has become a point of admiration by residents and passersby according to Feron, which leads to more recognition. "It's being considered for the national registration of historical sites," said Feron. Feron and other members of the Medina County Historical Society have decorated the now-museum for Christmas, using a mix of vintage and modern ornaments and decorations to partake in the seasonal celebrations. "Some (of the decorations) are vintage," said Feron. "There are also some more modern things." Feron believes that more people will take interest in the museum, as well as Medina's past, as the museum has gotten awards, recognition, and modern housing accommodations added into and onto it. "This house has won some major awards. We're always looking for new volunteers for the work. We have much to do this spring," Feron said. Feron encourages residents to come study their county's history, and learn about the McDowell-Phillips Museum's past. Contact reporter Mason Savoia at (330) 957-3043 or at msavoia@medina-gazette.com.