Showcasing history (WITH GALLERY)

Published 12:00 am Wednesday, April 2, 2025

By Heath Harrison

Burlington hosts annual wax museum

BURLINGTON — For nearly a decade, students from Burlington Elementary School have been honoring past figures, as well as those from the present, while learning about their contributions to history.

The ninth annual Living Wax Museum took place at the school on Thursday, with the school’s three second grade classes dressing up for the occasion.

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Figures in the show included U.S. presidents, like George Washington, Abraham Lincoln and Barack Obama, artists such as Leonard da Vinci, musicians, such as Johnny Cash and Loretta Lynn and sports figures like Tom Brady and Pete Rose.

Students research their chosen figure and write a short report on their life, before dressing up and posing for the exhibit, which other classes at the school tour. A show takes place in the evening for parents and the community, second grade teacher Courtney Ray said.

The event was started by Ray, and former teachers Mary Matney and Amanda Clay, and has taken place each year, with the exception of the year schools were closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ray said for the 10th anniversary next year, the hope is to invite back the students who took part in the initial year of the wax museum, who are now in high school.

This year’s exhibit saw some new editions, such as actress Rita Moreno, musician Tom Petty and others.

Ray also pointed out that there were variations on old favorites.

“This is the first year we’ve had a Jailhouse Rock Elvis,” she said. “And the first time we’ve had an Eras Taylor Swift.”

Altogether, 54 students took part in this year’s event. 

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