07-08-26 Douglas County Museum Unveils "Timeless Treasures: Museum Bicycles & Toys" Exhibit (Photo) - 07/08/26

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 8, 2026

Douglas County Museum Unveils "Timeless Treasures: Museum Bicycles & Toys" Exhibit

(Douglas County, Ore.) – Douglas County Commissioners Tom Kress, Chris Boice, and Tim Freeman along with staff at the Douglas County Museum of History and Natural History are pleased to announce the opening of "Timeless Treasures: Museum Bicycles & Toys," a nostalgic new exhibit showcasing more than a century of childhood history through an extraordinary collection of vintage bicycles, toys and model trains. 

The exhibit features 29 vintage bicycles and 104 toys, many of which were generously donated by the family of the late Joe Burris, a passionate collector and restorer who spent years preserving historic bicycles. Thanks to the Burris family's generosity, visitors now have the opportunity to experience one of the Museum's most unique and engaging collections.  Among the oldest artifacts on display is a small metal-and-wood child's sled dating to the late 1800s, offering a glimpse into childhood recreation more than a century ago.

"One of the greatest joys of our museum is its ability to preserve the stories of everyday life," said Board Chair and Museum Liaison Commissioner Tom Kress. "This exhibit celebrates the craftsmanship, innovation and memories associated with bicycles and toys that generations of families grew up enjoying. We are grateful to the Burris family and our Museum staff for making this remarkable exhibit possible."

The exhibit was conceived by Museum Director James Davis, whose lifelong appreciation for vintage toys inspired the Museum to pursue the acquisition of such a significant collection when the opportunity arose.  "These bicycles and toys represent much more than playthings—they tell the story of American childhood, ingenuity, and recreation over more than 100 years," Davis said. "We are excited to share these timeless treasures with visitors of all ages."

The exhibit was curated by Karen Bratton, Museum Research Librarian and Collection Manager, and expertly fabricated by Jim Aune, Museum Operations Technician, whose craftsmanship transformed the collection into an engaging and visually striking display.  Visitors will discover bicycles spanning from the late 1800s through the mid-1960s, including early "boneshaker" bicycles, classic men's and women's models, tandem bicycles built for two, as well as children's bicycles and tricycles.  Among the exhibit's featured pieces are two exceptional Schwinn bicycles dating from the 1950s and 1960s:

• A Schwinn Police Special, complete with helmet, originally used by the Eugene Police Department.
• A beautifully preserved Schwinn Deluxe 7 in near-mint condition.

The companion toy exhibit showcases a remarkable assortment of artifacts dating from the mid-to-late 1800s through the twentieth century, including:

• Metal pedal toys
• Rocking horses
• Wooden and metal sleds
• Scooters
• Dolls and doll buggies
• Vintage games
• Numerous children's toys from generations past

The exhibit also includes an impressive collection of model trains drawn from both the Museum's collections and the personal collection of Jim Aune. The train display features multiple scales, from Z scale to O scale, with trains dating from approximately 1960 through 2000.

"Timeless Treasures: Museum Bicycles & Toys" will remain on display at the Douglas County Museum of Natural & Cultural History for at least one year, giving residents and visitors ample opportunity to experience this one-of-a-kind collection.  Whether guests remember riding a bicycle like the one they had as a child, recognize a favorite toy from their grandparents' home, or simply appreciate the craftsmanship of a bygone era, the exhibit offers something for every generation.

For more than 50 years, the Douglas County Museum has been dedicated to preserving and showcasing the region’s rich cultural and natural history. Through engaging exhibits, the museum connects visitors with the industries and communities that helped shape Douglas County, from timber harvesting and farming to transportation and mining.  Located at 123 Museum Drive, Roseburg, Oregon (conveniently off I-5 Exit 123, adjacent to the Douglas County Fairgrounds), the museum is open seven days a week from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Lavola Bakken Research Library is open Tuesday through Saturday from 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.  Admission Prices: Free for members and children ages 0-4, $2.00 for students (ages 5-17), $8.00 for adults, $5.00 for seniors and veterans. Visitors can also explore the Museum Mercantile, the museum’s gift shop, offering a fantastic selection of books on Douglas County’s history, Oregon-themed gifts, educational toys, and unique souvenirs.  For more information, to plan your visit, or to learn about volunteer opportunities, click here or please call the Douglas County Museum of History & Natural History at (541) 957-7007.  The Douglas County Museum system is a division of Douglas County Government.

The Douglas County Board of Commissioners invites the public to visit the exhibit and rediscover the timeless treasures that have inspired imagination, adventure and cherished memories for generations.

Douglas County Museum - Discover the stories - Explore the legacy - Experience history!