New arrivals in the gift shop at the Escalon Historical Museum are jigsaw puzzles, top photo, depicting the Escalon caboose in Main Street Park. The puzzles are available in two sizes. The 504-piece puzzle is priced at $17.50 and the 35-piece puzzle is priced at $15. At side, currently on display in the front window case at the museum is a collection of nutcrackers belonging to Esther Payne. These carved wooden figures have evolved into a traditional symbol of Christmas. Esther started this collection in the 1960s, purchasing one per year. Her grandson loves the nutcrackers so much that he has started his own collection and will one day inherit grandma’s collection as well. The museum will be open during the holiday season on Wednesdays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., except for Dec. 24 and 31, the two holiday eves. There is no charge for admission but donations are always welcome.

Photos Contributed