SUMNER — The Rumford and Mexico historical societies are planning a fall kick-off picnic at the petroleum collectibles museum from 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19. The Past Gas & Ancient Oils Museum is owned and operated by Tim and Sue Wallace at 380 Black Mountain Road.

Wallace has been collecting and restoring memorabilia from old-time gasoline stations and the country stores associated with them for the past 35 years. He has recently opened his collection to the public in a country setting.

The picnic and tour of the three buildings, housing restored items, will be held rain or shine. In the case of inclement weather, Wallace will provide a large tent and chairs. Iced tea and lemonade will be provided by the societies, and members and guests are asked to bring their favorite picnic fare to share.

Cost is $7 a person and is nonrefundable. The public may also attend for the same fee.

Those who attend may also stop at the nearby wool processing, dyeing, knitting and yarn shop to get supplies for their winter creative ventures. Marty Elkin and Mary Ann Haxton, owners of Wrinkle in Thyme Farm, 106 Black Mountain Road, have agreed to open their shop for a visit.

Send checks for $7 a person, made out to Rumford Historical Society, and mail to Jane W. Peterson, 231 Eaton Hill Road, Rumford, ME 04276 no later than Monday, Sept. 7. Those who need a ride should indicate it in their response and include a phone number.