In honor of the many contributions of Rev. George and Hazel Anderson, the Allen Heritage Guild is inviting the community to a 1950’s theme celebration. The doors of St. Mary Baptist Church will be open from 4-8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, 402 East St. Mary Dr.  Longtime educators in Allen, Rev. and Mrs. Anderson also served as minsters at St. Mary when it was an active church.

Pianist Nancy Laine, accompanist for the Allen Symphony Chorus, will play a medley of holidays selections from 5-8 p.m. Guests can also view Paula Ross’s timeless, handcrafted Santa collection. Visitors will be treated to hot cider and wrapped chocolates.

Kids will be afforded an opportunity to ring the vintage St. Mary bell.   This icon rang for the commencement of school and church in an era when personal timepieces were rare and expensive.   

St. Mary is the only surviving one-room school in Allen.  It served as both a church and a school for Allen’s African-American community from 1910-32.  Now a part of Allen Heritage Village, St. Mary is currently available for weddings and tours.

For information or scheduling, call Paula Ross at 972-740-8017.