HD SOUTH - Home Of The Gilbert Historical Museum

PARTY IN THE STARS
2025-10-15 19:00 - 20:00 (America/Phoenix) | HD SOUTH, 10 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, AZ, 85296, United States
The East Valley Astronomy Club (EVAC) is a group of more than 100 astronomy enthusiasts which began in 1987 and includes members from all over the Valley. Join EVAC and HD SOUTH for a Star Party where attendees will learn about the cosmos and be able to view celestial bodies in our galaxy! This event takes place at the Observatory at the Riparian Preserve.
Registration is required.
~donations for EVAC are accepted at the observatory~

RIBBON CUTTING
2025-10-17 15:45 - 18:00

ART OF THE IMAGINATION
2025-10-18 10:30 - 12:00
Welcome back Debra McVay M. Ed., for this unique art workshop. Children are guided through a calming visualization that encourages relaxation, imagination, and self-expression. After the guided journey, they’ll paint what they visualized, turning their inner world into meaningful artwork. Visualization helps children build focus, reduce stress, and boost creativity and imagination—all while having fun and expressing themselves through art.
Ages 9—13. Registration is required. Space is limited.

PERCUSSION INSTRUMENT MAKE AND PLAY
2025-10-18 13:00 - 14:30
Play musical instruments from around the world with ASU Professors Emeritus Duane and Maureen Roen, in this fun and interactive musical workshop. Learn how to make and play simple percussion instrument from items found around the home. The workshop will end with a brief concert performance alongside Duane and Maureen. Supplies provided. Ages 6 & up.
Registration required.

CANCELLED YOGA AT HD SOUTH
2025-10-20 19:00 - 20:00
THIS CLASS HAS BEEN CANCELLED

Join HD SOUTH and Yoga’s Arc, Alyssa Schaeffer for an hour of yoga that will help relax participants while conditioning muscles. Enjoy the benefits of effective breathing, improved flexibility, and greater balance. This is an all-level yoga class for teens through adults. Please bring a yoga mat, water, and wear comfortable clothing.
Registration is required.

FAMILY LINE DANCING
2025-10-20 19:00 - 20:00
Join Laina Lee for a FAMILY NIGHT line dancing class! Have some good old family fun as you learn to line dance at HD SOUTH. Laina brings 30 years of training and experience to her classes, providing an outstanding opportunity to learn from the best. This is a good time of year to get our bodies moving to the rhythm of great country, Motown, and oldies music. It’s the most fun you’ll have while exercising your body and brain too! Learn popular line dances such as Copperhead Road, Cowboi Boogie, Rita’s Waltz, Old Time Rock n Roll, All Shook Up and more. Ages 10 and up.
Registration is required. This class is FREE

TRAVEL THE WORLD
2025-10-21 18:30 - 20:00
Join HD SOUTH as we welcome world travel expert extraordinaire Tim Steele and his wife Carol who will share their experiences with traveling the world economically. This travel presentation will include information on great travel locations, the cost of travel, accommodations, food, transportation, and more. Being prepared is the key! In this 3-part program, Tim and Carol will teach you how to make your next trip abroad a wonderful travel experience while keeping costs low. Bring a travel buddy and learn about these self-guided tours, no travel agent needed, for your next vacation. Pictures and artifacts are included. Handouts provided.
Registration is required.

FAMILY HISTORY – MEMORIES ON WHEELS
2025-10-21 18:30 - 20:00
Join ASU professor emeritus Duane Roen, founding coordinator for the Project for Writing and Recording Family History in the College of Integrative Science and Arts, for this unique look at our family history. A great way to access rich memories is to think about or ask a family member about experiences and memorable moments related to transportation of any kind. Maybe it’s a bike or car you saved up for—or that you never had but always envied. The bus you rode to school, a farm tractor, or your grandfather’s old, rusted Chevy. In this workshop we will share some of those memories in conversation and writing (please bring paper and pen or a laptop). Ages 14 and up.
Registration required.

COOKIE DECORATING WITH MAE’S COOKIE JAR
2025-10-23 18:00 - 20:00
Whether you come on your own or with friends, you will have a great time decorating gorgeous, themed cookie sets. Guided by the talented Vickie from Mae’s Cookie Jar, participants will learn a variety of cookie decorating techniques including how to hold the icing bags, outlining, flooding, wet on wet techniques, and more! All supplies and a take-home box are provided. Ages 10 and up. See website calendar for this month’s cookie set.
Registration is required. www.maescookiejar.com/hdsouth

STEM SATURDAY
2025-10-25 10:30 - 12:00
Spend a Saturday morning at the museum conducting fun and exciting science experiments. Local teacher, Erik Gillman, will guide participants through a workshop that will allow them to carve their own wood art project using computer numerical control. Kids will create a design on a Chromebook using EASEL software and convert the design into GCODE which the engraver understands. Then set up the engraver to start the process. Ages 12 and up. Supplies are provided. Class size limited.
Registration is required.

THE MAKING OF A CHILDREN’S BOOK
2025-10-25 13:00 - 14:30
Join local children’s picture book author-illustrator, Jenifer Tull-Gauger, for a book talk on the behind-the-scenes making of a children’s picture book. The author will show and tell about the adventure of creating her first children’s picture book, The Can-Do Karate Kids: A Dojo Kun Character Book on Defeating Laziness & Procrastination, from her character-building. Topics include inspiration, tough decisions, and the process that she went through to write and illustrate the book. Jenifer’s books are geared toward children ages 5 to 10.
Registration required. Ages 10 and up.

LINE DANCING
2025-10-27 19:00 - 20:00, 2025-11-03 19:00 - 20:00, 2025-11-10 19:00 - 20:00, 2025-11-17 19:00 - 20:00
Welcome back Laina Lee for a FUN evening of Line Dance classes! Laina brings 30 years of training and experience to her classes, providing an outstanding opportunity to learn from the best. This is a good time of year to get our bodies moving to the rhythm of great country, Motown, and oldies music. It’s the most fun you’ll have while exercising your body and brain too! Learn popular line dances such as Copperhead Road, Cowboi Boogie, Rita’s Waltz, Old Time Rock n Roll, All Shook Up and more.
Registration is required. Payment will be required when coming to the class
Cost: $60 per 6-week session or $12 drop-in. Laina takes Zelle and Venmo, and you can sign-up with her upon your first class.
Visit her site at www.Meetup.com/EastValleyKickers to learn more.

Payment must be received by Laina Lee for classes

SOUND MEDITATION FOR GRIEF
2025-10-28 18:30 - 19:30
Join Stuart Preston, a certified Sound Practitioner, for a deeply empathetic Sound Meditation Session designed for those grappling with loss. It’s not about moving on but finding moments of peace and clarity amidst sorrow. Bring a yoga mat, blankets, and a pillow to create your personal sanctuary. Dress comfortably and arrive 10 minutes early. Learn more about Stuart and this unique practice at www.LaoStu.com.
Registration is required due to limited space.

No refunds for registration fees will be given unless the class/program is cancelled by HD SOUTH staff. In the event a class/program is cancelled, please allow 3-4 weeks to receive your refund. Refunds will be issued via check.

SELF DEFENSE FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS
2025-10-30 18:30 - 19:30
Kids ages seven and older, teens, and adults are invited to join certified black belt instructors from East Valley Martial Arts to learn and brush-up on self-defense. Instructors are caring professionals experienced at teaching both kids and adults the life protection arts. Physical techniques for protecting oneself will be covered, as well as “street smarts” and prevention of incidents. Children ages 7 to 12 must have a parent or guardian present with them. Parents/guardians are welcome to join the class, or to sit quietly and observe from the sidelines. Safety is always a priority, and we recommend wearing loose, comfortable clothing.
Registration required.

CHILDREN'S AUTHOR VISIT & BOOK READING
2025-11-01 10:00 - 12:00
Meet Kathie McMahon, award-winning author of the Mortimer and Me chapter book series for ages 6-10. She will be introducing the new book from her spin-off series, Mortimer and Lily, featuring the younger sister of the first series. You’ll love the newest antics of her friend Mortimer the moose as Lily and her friends try to include Mortimer in a school project. Kathie will read from the book, Moose in Training, as well as provide a fun morning of games and activities. Special guest will be illustrator Tanja Bauerle who will demonstrate how to draw a moose. Books from both series will be available for sale and a personalized signing.
Registration is required.

KID’S CROSS-STITCHING
2025-11-01 10:00 - 12:00
HD SOUTH’S volunteer Louise Kircher is teaching her famous cross-stitching class again at the museum. Stitch along with other participants to create a cross-stitched wall hanging. The stamped cross-stitched design is done on unbleached muslin. Each participant will take home their completed project. All supplies are provided. Recommended for ages 8 to 14 years.
Class size limited. Registration is required.

Gente de Maíz Closing Reception
2025-11-01 13:00 - 15:00
I’m personally inviting you to come celebrate the Closing Reception for my ninth solo exhibition, “Gente de Maíz,” on Saturday, November 1st, from 1-3 p.m. at HD South Gallery 4 in Gilbert, AZ.

This exhibition honors departed family members, loved ones, and everyday people who embody the ancestral understanding that humans are like maíz. I’m especially excited for you to see it, as it’s my first show where I’ve experimented with creating all the portraits using watercolor, charcoal and graphite.

To celebrate our community, we’ll also have music, empanadas and warm beverages. As a show exclusive, the first 10 attendees will receive a special sticker!

Can I count on seeing you there? Please RSVP here so we can get an accurate headcount for the food.

More about the Gente de Maíz exhibition

This series of watercolor and drawing portraits is dedicated to everyday people who embody the ancestral understanding that humans are like Maíz. The portraits commemorate both departed family members and loved ones who remain, capturing their distinct identities and illustrating how they are intrinsically linked to the spirit of Maíz. Each piece features a grid in the background symbolizing societal constraints, while the subjects depicted represent the act of transcending these limitations to realize their fullest potential. Watercolor and graphite were chosen as primary media to highlight the nuanced beauty and complexity achieved through transparent layering, contributing depth and vitality to each portrait within the collection.

LUNCH HOUR BOOK CLUB
2025-11-03 11:30 - 13:00, 2025-11-17 11:30 - 13:00
Bring your lunch and join HD SOUTH and Literally, A Bookshop, who have partnered to host a community book club. The Book Club will meet twice a month, and the book selection will be discussed over the course of the two sessions. The November book selection is “The Queens Of Crime” by Marie Benedict. Set in 1930’s London, the five greatest women crime writers have banded together to form a secret society to solve an actual murder. Advanced registration is required and limited to the first 12 registrants.
To register and purchase the book, visit www.literallybookshop.com.

HISTORY OF NEWSPAPERS
2025-11-04 18:30 - 20:00
Join HD SOUTH and Professor Emeritus Dr. John Craft, Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at ASU, for this exclusive look into the history of newspapers in Arizona. Did you know that there have been almost 1,800 newspapers listed in Arizona since the first was established in Tubac in 1859? Time travel back to early Arizona history and learn about the newspapers that have kept Arizonans informed.
Registration required.

PORTRAIT OF A QUILT
2025-11-08 10:30 - 12:00
On January 25, 2025, Navy veteran and Gilbert resident, Lucy Wong organized, designed and directed four art sessions at the Astor Center in Mesa, and working with the veterans in designing their quilt blocks to create a quilt. In these sessions Lucy constructed her own quilt which was on display during the month of July 2025, at Art Studio 101 in Mesa, Arizona. It was then donated to “Goodwill” for a display at the Phoenix VA. Lucy will talk about her experiences creating this King size art quality quilt for Arizona veterans to be inspired.
Registration required.

SOUND MEDITATION FOR GRIEF
2025-11-11 18:30 - 19:30
Join Stuart Preston, a certified Sound Practitioner, for a deeply empathetic Sound Meditation Session designed for those grappling with loss. It’s not about moving on but finding moments of peace and clarity amidst sorrow. Bring a yoga mat, blankets, and a pillow to create your personal sanctuary. Dress comfortably and arrive 10 minutes early. Learn more about Stuart and this unique practice at www.LaoStu.com.
Registration is required. Ages 16 & up.

No refunds for registration fees will be given unless the class/program is cancelled by HD SOUTH staff. In the event a class/program is cancelled, please allow 3-4 weeks to receive your refund. Refunds will be issued via check

"3 For The Community" Food Drive
2025-11-13 09:00 - 16:00
In the spirit of community and compassion, HD SOUTH, Home of the Gilbert Historical Museum, is partnering with Midwest Food Bank for a special event called “3 For The Community.” On Thursday, November 13, HD SOUTH will offer free museum admission to any guest who brings three canned food items to support individuals and families facing food insecurity — including those impacted by the recent government shutdown.
Visitors are encouraged to drop off their canned goods between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. at HD SOUTH, located at 10 S. Gilbert Road. All donations will go directly to Midwest Food Bank Arizona, where they will be distributed to those in need across the Valley.
This collaboration is a wonderful way for the community to come together in support of our neighbors, while guests enjoy exploring Gilbert’s rich history at the museum, they’ll also be helping to make a real difference for families struggling during this difficult time.
Midwest Food Bank, a faith-based nonprofit, works year-round to alleviate hunger and poverty by distributing food to partner agencies and families in crisis. Through efforts like “3 For The Community,” HD SOUTH and Midwest Food Bank aim to remind residents that even small acts — like donating three cans — can have a lasting impact.
HD SOUTH invites everyone to participate — bring your cans, bring your friends, and be part of a community effort that celebrates both history and humanity.

FAMILY HISTORY – THE BUTTERFLY EFFECT
2025-11-13 18:30 - 20:00
Join ASU professor emeritus Duane Roen, founding coordinator for the Project for Writing and Recording Family History in the College of Integrative Science and Arts, for this unique look at our family history. The butterfly effect is the concept that small things can have a chain of unexpected consequences. In this workshop, we will discuss how some seemingly small things have affected our lives, and the lives of family and friends in a way we never expected. We will write about our experiences.(please bring paper and pen or a laptop). Ages 14 and up.
Registration required.

STEM SATURDAY
2025-11-15 13:00 - 14:30
Have fun at the museum on Saturday afternoon with AP teacher Karen Maas, from the Gilbert Classical Academy, and her STEM students as they share a STEM learning adventure with participants. GCA students will introduce a variety of activities including 3D printing with both 3D pens and printers, CAD applications using Tinkercad, Makey Makey apps with fruit, and more!
Registration is required. Registration will close at 12pm on Friday November 14th.

No Strangers Opening Reception
2025-11-15 18:00 - 20:00

COOKIE DECORATING WITH MAE’S COOKIE JAR
2025-11-18 18:00 - 20:00
Whether you come on your own or with friends, you will have a great time decorating gorgeous, themed cookie sets. Guided by the talented Vickie from Mae’s Cookie Jar, participants will learn a variety of cookie decorating techniques including how to hold the icing bags, outlining, flooding, wet on wet techniques, and more! All supplies and a take-home box are provided. Ages 16 and up. See website calendar for this month’s cookie set. Registration is required. www.maescookiejar.com/hdsouth
