A few days ago a nice gentleman stopped by the museum with a letter he had written to the board and administrator (me). Howard spent a lot of time composing said missive and I would like for him to know how nice it is to get input from the community. He had some constructive criticism and interesting points to make. This is the 5th year I have worked here at the museum and often, I forget how the public perceives us. I have the "insiders" viewpoint and know what we are working on and what we think needs to be done, but can be rather blind as to whether our efforts are a success or need some adjustment. 
This is the first winter we have "officially" been open all winter for quite a long time. The heating system has been repaired and now it is comfortable enough to bring in speakers for Saturday programs. Our field trips have been well received and more promotion has helped boost membership in the Historical Society. Several local foundations have granted us funds to revamp the metal building, digitize maps and newspapers, sponsor field trips, restore windows and work on other programs. 
Without input from the community, organizations can stagnate. The current board of directors represent a broad range of general interests and ages. We appreciate those of you that are willing to tell us what you would like to see us do, what you think we are getting right or what needs improvement.  

Kimberly Williams Brackett will be at the museum to discuss her book "Keepers of the Record". Starts at 1 o'clock and feel free to ask questions. Kimberly will be available to sign her book after the presentation.

Over 60 people were at the museum to hear Shawn Willsey talk about the unique and exciting geological formations in the Magic Valley. The presentation was VERY interesting and the museum has added his book, "Geology Underfoot in Southern Idaho" to our library collection. Shawn talked about the Yellowstone Caldera, also the Bruneau and Jarbidge eruptions as well as many other details about the rimrock in the Snake River Canyon near pillar falls. The audience posed some great questions, which Shawn readily answered and explained. Many thanks to Shawn Willsey for coming to do this presentation for us.

Saturday, February 23, the Pioneer Button Club will explain military and uniform buttons, how buttons are made and from what materials, and numerous other fun facts about buttons. 
Event begins at 1 o'clock with a presentation from Pioneer Button Club members, then question and answer period with group. Stay and talk as long as you like, the museum is open until 5.
You may want to bring a chair as seating is limited and parking is in the rear of the museum building. 
​Admission is FREE!!!

What a great turnout for Max Black's presentation on Diamondfield Jack. 

Peggy Cristobal has been gone more than a year now, but the summer before she passed away, she worked on research for her "Rogerson" book, here at the museum. She would often share a tidbit she had stashed away and this newspaper clipping is one.

Former director Ron Yates donated this map from the Department of Interior. It shows the principal explorers and early roads and highways of the United States. Map is dated 1907

Elmer Haag carved a number of figures, boxes and animals that he sent to his sister Eileen Allison in Reno. Eileen's daughter Kristen Avansino has donated these to the Historical Society and they will be on display at the museum. We appreciate all the donations received, especially those as unique and appropriate to our mission as this one. There a several carvings which will be accessioned into the museum as a collection, complete with provenance and photos. Many thanks to the family of Elmer and Eileen.