CAMBRIDGE — For January 2015, the Heritage Museums and Gardens of Dorchester is starting with a flourish, offering programming that reflects “New Year, New-Seum!” from Jan. 13. through Jan. 17. Those interested are encouraged to attend one or all, with programs that will begin promptly at noon and end at 1 p.m. — designed to accommodate everyone’s work day — with no preregistration or cost.

Recently, the Dorchester County Historical Society, the qualified 501 (c) 3 nonprofit corporation that operates the Heritage Museums, received significant grant funding from the Maryland Heritage Areas Authority which will be used to rework, freshen and improve the Museum’s exhibits and will include professional design, cohesive signage and a plethora of hands-on, interactive elements. To celebrate this reinvigoration, it was decided to start off 2015 with programming that is geared to an expanded audience.

On Jan. 13, local children’s book illustrator Laura Rankin will share her “Love of Felting.” This old world craft captured Ms. Rankin’s admiration several years ago and she began to experiment on her own. Learn the history of this craft and enjoy her wonderful, whimsical creations that are limited only by imagination. Attendees will have the opportunity to try their hand at dry felting and see the tools and tricks of the craft.

On Jan. 14, Leslie Grove, owner of the new Shops at Magnolia Grove in downtown Cambridge, will share “Vintage, Again. The New Fashion.” She will share ideas on how to incorporate vintage pieces into your wardrobe, as well as other helpful clothing tips that you may want to try. Her recently opened shop combines local artwork, vintage clothing and a coffee bar, a testimony to just how eclectic Ms. Grove is.

Jan. 15 will welcome Brian Joyner, the acting superintendent of the newly-named Harriet Tubman National Park. Mr. Joyner, intent on welcoming interaction with the Tubman story will facilitate “Old Thinking, New Perspective. What Would Harriet Do?” If you could bring Harriet into 2015, what do you think she would make of the state of affairs in the country today? This conversation is not simply for scholars and historians, but promises to make attendees more thoughtful.

On Jan. 16, “Restyling, Repurposing, Redecorating with Vintage and Antique Pieces” will be offered by local Deborah Jackson who is the owner of Court Lane Emporium. Mrs. Jackson will bring examples of items that can be reworked to fit into modern décor. If you have an heirloom but don’t know how to use it or integrate it into your lifestyle, this is an opportunity to get advice.

On Jan. 17, the East Cambridge Country Store interactive exhibit will open for business. This permanent exhibit was recently installed and includes local artifacts including an authentic mailbox unit from the Elliott Island Post Office, an early scale from E.S. Hubbert when it was located in Linkwood, early “cash registers” from Phillips’ among many other gems. The area has been appointed with church pews and benches for comfortable seating, authentic vintage games, including checkers and many other favorites.

There is also a new child’s play area at the Heritage Museum that encourages children to experience many old toys and games from bygone times. Everything from a children’s laundry set, books, games, blocks, a vintage wooden doll house and more awaits young people to bring them to life. Introduce the youngster in your world to the pastimes that brought you joy. Young folks will want to play dress up and get their photos taken to prove it!

For more information on these programs, please call 410-228-7953 or e-mail dchs@verizon.net. The Heritage Museums and Gardens of Dorchester is located at 1003 Greenway Drive in Cambridge.