The Niagara Area Historical Museum and Niagara Public Library have teamed up to present “Lunchroom Lore: Uncovering the Flavorful History of School Lunches.”

The program will start at 6 p.m. at the museum at 1364 River St. in Niagara.

The unique event plans to serve up a blend of nostalgia, insight, and intrigue as it explores the evolution of school lunches in America.

Attendees will uncover the stories behind the meals that have fueled generations of students — from humble beginnings to modern-day innovations.

MaryBeth Dixon purchased the first Niagara Area Historical Museum fundraiser brick in honor of her parents, Tom And Phyllis Dixon, from program coordinator Darlene Kadulski. Kadulski will be present during Tuesday’s event displaying bricks so the community can check them out as well as purchase.

They will learn the origins of iconic cafeteria staples, how cultural influences shaped school lunch menus across different eras, and gain new appreciation for the role that food plays in the educational experience.

The Niagara School’s lunch programs, foods, and lunch ladies are a focus of the program, along with longtime head cook Jeri Allen, who will be present to prepare a special recipe.

When many locals think of Niagara school recipes, a cookie comes to mind. Historical Society President Karen Klenke noted that it wasn’t a school recipe, but people love them.

Another lunchroom favorite was the meat roll. “Everyone went crazy for it,” Klenke said.

The library will have complimentary cards of three of the favorite school recipes.

Librarian Rebecca Livick has done an extensive investigation on school lunch programs to create “Lunchroom Lore,” said Klenke. They will also have numerous photographs on display of past cooks over the years.

Klenke said that when Livick approached her with the idea she was immediately onboard. “We (the museum) can connect the library on a lot of issues,” said Klenke, noting the team at the library is very creative.

Livick notes that whether you’re a history buff, a food enthusiast, or simply curious about the lesser-known aspects of American culture, “Lunchroom Lore” will have something for everyone. “We’re thrilled to partner with the Niagara Area Historical Museum to offer this one-of-a-kind program,” said Livick.

They hope to continue offering different topics. “Who knows what else we have in our back pocket for people to come and enjoy the museum and learn something new,” Livick said.

Everyone of all ages is welcome to the free program, donations will be accepted.

Museum volunteer Darlene Kadulski will be displaying special engraved bricks, which is a new fundraiser for the Niagara Area Historical Museum. They will be on sale now through the end of the year.

Funds raised from the brick sale will be used for its second property, “Serenity Woods,” which is currently being developed.

Anyone can place an order at the event.

Terri Castelaz can be reached at 906-774-2772 ext. 241, or tcastelaz@ironmountaindailynews.com.