Merced County Courthouse Museum will open the “What’s That For? – The Stories of Obscure Artifacts” exhibit on Thursday, March 7, at 5:00 p.m. There are so many artifacts in our collection that have yet to be seen by or known to the public. No longer the accessories to augment an exhibit, these objects finally have their own show to shine in the spotlight. Come to learn about these obscure artifacts and their fascinating stories from the covered wagon days to the cell phone era. One such item is the wooden bowl from the Harlan family, who successfully made it through their westward journey in 1846 while the Donner Party met its tragic faith. At the opening, local author Eugene Hart will discuss his reassessment of the Donner Party tragedy and autograph his book, Salt and Snow. For more information about the exhibit, please contact the Museum office at (209) 723-2401.