On Thurs., Oct. 25th, Plymouth State University hosted an opening reception to celebrate the upcoming opening of the Museum of the White Mountains in the PSU Ice Arena.
The Museum of the White Mountains project began after the Methodist Church on Highland Avenue was purchased by Plymouth State in 2010. At the opening, renovation floor plans showed how the project had progressed over time. “We just received our certificate of occupancy, so we’re going to be moving in after Sandy passes over,” said Catherine Amidon, the Museum’s Director.
While the Museum has mostly historic photos, Lindsay Burke, the Collections Assistant for the Museum, stated that the museum will be trans-disciplinary in nature. “We’re not trying to be an Art Museum, a Science Museum, or anything like that. We are trying to show as balanced a story as possible.”
While the Museum has a traditional gallery within it, the staff has digitized many of the photos and documents it has attained, to allow for further access. “It gives the collection a feel from afar, and it allows for remote access anywhere that has an internet connection,” said Burke. “It’s also keeping with the trends in the museum world, allowing more people to see the exhibits.”
Another digital component to the Museum is the developing a community share website, where people can upload stories, photos, or anything that could be considered a part of the story of the White Mountains. Burke said, “The story never stops, it’s always changing.”
Along with the general welcoming of community members to explore the Museum, there was a book signing of Mountain Voices: Stories of Life and Adventure in the White Mountains and Beyond. Written by Rebecca Oreskes and Doug Mayer, the book profiles 15 people, who live in the White Mountains and the stories they have to tell.
While many came to the event to learn about the museum, Amidon hopes that people use the museum, not just as a learning tool, but as something that encourages them to explore. “Being in Plymouth, we act as a gateway to the region. We hope that people will take in the experience and then explore the region some more.”
The Museum is due to open its doors Feb. 23rd, 2013.