One of Plymouth State University’s newest editions, the Museum of the White Mountains, held its official commencement on February 23, 2013. Arriving ten minutes early, the small lobby was filled to the brim with anticipating students, families, and laymen alike- all of which, were discussing their relation to New Hampshire and their personal experiences with what one may consider one of the most vague words know to man, art.
When asked to pretend as if the interviewer had no prior knowledge of the Museum of the White Mountains, Melissa Cody, a Plymouth State University student and White Mountain Museum employee, told The Clock “all about it” in few words. “The museum is Plymouth State University’s very own. It displays the history and culture of the White Mountains region, by use of artifacts, paintings, and other forms of art.”
Naturally, this fulfilling yet terse explanation leads one to desire more knowledge. Luckily, Dr. Catherine S. Amidon, both an author and the founding director of the Museum of the White Mountains, was enthusiastic in her offer to give The Clock a tour.
While giving detailed history behind the artwork displayed in the museum, which consisted of paintings, written word, a wall-length map, a digital slideshow, and other physical artifacts such as a concord coach centerpiece, Dr. Amidon made it clear that the exhibit relates to people from all walks of life, regardless of their native region. Acknowledging that more often than not, people tend to find interest in things that relate to them, Dr. Amidon gave a direct correlation between the artwork displayed in the museum and its relevancy to those living in the world of today.
Demonstrating a vital piece of industrialization in the United States, Amidon stated, “In this era, the artists were creating a sense of place and what America was. These visuals represent the microcosm of the creation of this very nation and the settling that happened with it, along with the ease of life over time. Nevertheless, being a place of partying, gallivanting, and enjoying the outdoors.”
Erica Wiehler, a third year student and bystander, claimed that she had no idea of the significance of the White Mountains region. “Though observably smaller than what I would imagine as a museum, this exhibition is rich in detail, both historically and artistically.”
Regardless of one’s pleasurable pastime, there is clearly more to Museum of the White Mountains than meets the naked eye. While it is a place of archival interest for some, it is an unexpectedly relatable educational experience for all.