2011 Museums accomplishments noted

2011 was a good year for the local museums. Both the Burroughs’ Home and the Railroad Depot museums drew visitors from all over the United States and foreign countries. Visitors numbered near 700 at the Depot and an additional 300 at the Burroughs’ Home. Visitors came from 32 states and from Canada, Germany and Mongolia.

Every year projects are accomplished to maintain the museums.

This year The Depot exterior lights and covers were installed and the fountain is now functioning. Additional work was done on the freight room door and the alumni room.

The Depot museum also now features a special gift shop, selling hats, t-shirts, mugs, railroad books and Mike Scovel prints.

Volunteers at the Depot include Dale Anderson, Chris Clinesmith, Dorothy Clinesmith, Darcia Dugger, Gaynel Gering, Liz Gillette, and L. R. Keith.

At the Burroughs’ home the rose garden was added in memory of Jarod Smith. A new grass area was added; irises and the brick path were moved to make maintenance easier. The floor of the wraparound porch was painted. Lura Maier, volunteer for 15 years at the Burroughs’ Home, was selected as “Volunteer of the Year.”

Most volunteers work several days a month and the regular list of volunteers include Yvonne Anderson, Carol Becker, Nancy Burke, Linda Gardner, Terry Janzen, Lura Maier, Dottie Telecky and Ann Telecky.

Others who gave tours and sold items from the gift shop included Herb Janzen, Della Kiesz, Ann Olson, Joanne McCrady, Velda Miller, Marge Schoessler and Roger Schwab. Ruth Gust was a substitute.

Both museums continue to accept donations, which add to their impressive collections.

Both museums are open on a regular basis from Memorial Day to Labor Day beginning at 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays.

Additionally, tours can be given by appointment and should be scheduled through the chamber office or by calling Carol Becker, president, at 659-0317.

Scheduling of volunteers has already begun for 2012 and anyone interested in volunteering can contact Gaynel Gering at 659-1279.

Throughout the year the Burroughs’ home can be rented for birthdays or other special events. A meeting will be held in April to welcome volunteers and to make plans for 2012.

Current officers include Carol Becker, Gaynel Gering, Nancy Burke, Ann Olson and Chris Clinesmith.