MIDDLETOWN, Calif. – Time has run out for notorious outlaw Buck English.

Napa/Lake County’s favorite livestock rustler and stagecoach robber was sworn to avenge his murdered father and brothers. This boy with a gun made a life of crime and prison but never killed another man.

Now he bites the dust in the back archives of the Gibson Museum, making room for colorful decorations of a joyous holiday season in Middletown.

With mountains of colored lights and greenery, volunteers readied the Gibson Museum’s exterior for Christmas in Middletown (on Dec. 9) and later holiday festivities.

Inside the gallery, a full-size glowing Christmas tree stands before the cathedral window to invite visitors inside.

A 44-year collection of nativity scenes, Santa Clauses and snow scenes are shown through the generosity of Voris Brumfield, president of the Friends of Gibson Museum.

Smaller displays of children’s books, Hanukkah menorah, and Latin luminarios are on view as well.

Visitors are invited to join the festivities and celebrate with a hot drink and cookies in Granny’s old-time kitchen on Dec. 9.

The Museum’s permanent educational exhibits are still in place, and the holiday festivities will extend through Jan. 7.

Regular hours are Thursday, Friday and Saturday from noon through 4 p.m., with special evening hours until 8 p.m. on Christmas in Middletown event Dec. 9.