Currently, the Phippen Museum has an exhibit showcasing the work of its namesake, George Phippen. But next week, the museum will mark Phippen‘s 100th birthday with a weekend-long celebration from Friday, July 10-Sunday, July 12. From a special birthday dinner to a presentation by the president of the Cowboy Artists of America, the museum will make it a milestone to remember. Marketing and Communications Director Edd Kellerman said the museum hasn’t previously celebrated Phippen‘s birthday in such a manner. “Being his 100th birthday, it’s an auspicious celebration,” Kellerman said. At the dinner will be Phippen‘s son, Darrell Phippen, who Kellerman said will be giving a presentation of the family history. Kellerman also stated that Darrell will be available on Saturday, July 11, to give another talk on Phippen family history at 1 p.m. The museum will have free admission and birthday cake on that day.

The festivities don’t end on Saturday. On Sunday, July 12, at 2 p.m.,  Bill Nebeker, the current President of the Cowboy Artists of America will be giving a personal tour of the “Happy Birthday George.”     According to Kellerman, “George inspired Bill to get into sculpture” and said, “it’s interesting that he’s in the same position George was in,” noting that George was the first president of the Cowboy Artists of America.

Seats for the dinner are available for $50 per person, with reservations required by Sunday, July 5, and can be acquired by calling the museum at 928-778-1385. The “Happy Birthday George” exhibit will be on display until Sunday, July 19. For more information on Phippen Museum events, call the museum or visit www.phippenartmuseum.org. The museum is located at 4701 AZ-89. Follow Jason on Twitter @PrescottWheels. Reach him at 928-445-3333 ext. 2037 or at 928-642-5277