Folks from as far away as Clatsop County, Oregon, were treated to an “Afternoon with the Arts” at the Northwest Carriage Museum in Raymond March 5.

On hand were special guests author Jan Bono, photographer Cathy Russ and singer/songwriter Jessica Marie Porter, who offered their insights to visitors as they strolled through an impressive collection of horse-drawn carriages that date back to the 1850s.

“It was quite a nice gathering,” Director of the museum, Laurie Bowman said. “We opened our doors back in 2002, and have grown by leaps and bounds.”

Bono, is a retired teacher-turned author, playwright and poet from Long Beach. She has recently completed a mystery series, which is set on the Southwest Washington Coast.

Russ, a 20-year resident of Pacific County, recently released “Barns” — a collection of old barn photographs throughout the county.

Porter, began writing songs as a young woman growing up on the Willapa River. After temporarily abandoning her dreams to be a working musician, Bowman said Porter has returned to her roots, writing distinctive songs. Her music, she said, has been described as a dose of folk with a dash of country and a whole lot of love.

The museum, under the tutelage of curator Jerry Bowman, has seen its collection of 19th century carriages more than double from 20 to the now 50 horse-drawn modes of transportation.

In April 2015, the museum added 3,900 square feet of additional display space to accommodate the growth. But there is more to see than just carriages there. Other exhibits include a 1890 schoolhouse, a wheelwright/blacksmith shop, an educational transportation timeline, period clothing, artifacts, pictures and “unique” gift shop.

The museum is open daily, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The cost of admission is $8 for adults, $5 for children 6-18. Children 5 years old and under get in free. Seniors, military personnel and AAA members get a $1 discount.