On March 30 of this year, the Princeton Museum opened its doors with limited Spring hours.
On Saturdays and Sundays the museum will be open from 12 to 4 p.m., until summer hours begin in July. Volunteers are most welcome to join.
This year is “all about the kids,” said museum manager, Robin Lowe-Irwin, “it is important that they feel excited and engaged.”
The summertime exhibition at the museum will be all about toys—history and celebration of the joys of childhood.
Plans to expand on the successful summer camp programs for kids are well underway. Last years programs were a huge hit.(CSI Camp, Archaeology Camp, Girl Guide sleep overs etc)
The museum board hopes to increase its volunteer base. There are a number of projects they would like to see come to fruition. Outbuilding improvements, digitization of the newspaper and photo collections—to just name a few.
Although the museum has applied for grant funding, board members are working hard towards self sustainability.
Revenue generating ideas such as; museum rentals, (private parties, meetings etc) gold panning tours, book sales, photo sales, research and gift shop expansion are being discussed and implemented. Participation in the upcoming Outback Jacks Flea Market is planned as well.
Engagement with the community is priority for museum board members. Community group visits are encouraged and enjoyed, school field trips welcomed and birthday parties may also be held at the museum.
The latest in beautification and enhancement of the Princeton Museum and Archives is the installation of the Museum Donor Tree. This tree will house the names of individuals, businesses and organizations who have donated to the Princeton Museum.
Lowe-Irwin and friend Richard Simpson created the tree out of various strands of rope and foam-coat. It branches across two walls at the museum entry way. Leaves, birds and butterflies will carry the names of the donors.
Simpson, was the lead designer in the museum renovations and was most happy to return to assist with the Donor Tree project.
It looks like a busy year ahead for the members of the Princeton Museum. If you have an interest in preserving the history of our area, want to help out by becoming a volunteer or just want to visit the museum, stop in at 167 Vermilion Avenue.
For more information please call 250-295-7588 email princetonmuseum@gmail.com or visit www.princetonmuseum.org.
