Exhibit Opening: Learning Through Play

The Beaumont Heritage Society is proud to announce the debut of its newest exhibit, “Learning Through Play: Educational Toys in the Chambers Family Collection,” opening to the public on July 30th, 2026, at the Chambers House Museum. This exhibit explores how a middle-class household created an environment where learning extended beyond the classroom and helped shaped the academic achievements of two college-educated women in southeast Texas in the early 20th century.

Drawing from the Chambers family’s own collection of toys, photographs, and personal items, the exhibit offers a unique lens into how play was beginning to be used as tools to supplement educational activities outside of the classroom in the early 20th century.

At its center is a recreated mock “classroom” that allows guests to rediscover the wonder of learning through alphabet blocks, storybooks, and, of course, toys. “Learning Through Playing” examines how childhood experiences, family encouragement, and playful discovery shaped a lifelong pursuit of knowledge.

The exhibit will open at the Chambers House Museum on Thursday, July 30th, during regular operating hours. A free opening reception will take place at the museum (located at 2240 Calder Ave, Beaumont, TX 77701) on Friday, July 31, 2026, from 10am to 2pm. Ms. Morgan and Collections Manager Jayden Franke will be available to discuss the exhibit and answer questions from guests. Light refreshments will be served. The reception is open to the public, and no registration is required.