It’s been a long time coming, but the day is almost here for the official opening of the 900-square-foot addition to the Gwynn’s Island Museum. A grand opening celebration is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 5, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony set to begin at 1:15.

Ground was broken last May for the $68,000 expansion project, which has provided space for many exhibits that the museum had acquired, but previously lacked the space to display.

What makes this project extra special, Museum curator Jean Tanner said, are the many people who have made this project possible—spanning a period of several decades—providing financial support, giving their time or donating items for exhibit.

Tanner said she and fellow volunteer Pat Kurovics have spent countless hours over the last few months assembling and dressing mannequins and putting exhibits together.

The idea for the expansion began under the tenure of past Gwynn’s Island Civic League president Art Dubey...