Every family has a story to tell. Does your family’s story involve coming to Archuleta County?
One hundred years after the founding of our nation, Colorado became the 38th state to be admitted to the Union, earning the moniker of the “Centennial State.”
The Pagosa Springs History Museum is creating a history vault this season to preserve memories of families who came and settled in Archuleta County for future generations.
Local history is being collected, which will then be stored in a vault. This will be locked with the request that it not be opened until the bicentennial celebration of the state of Colorado in 2076.
What will be included in this exhibition? A collection of books, both in print and out of print, has been curated. Local family histories and writings have been permitted to be included in the vault. Oral histories have been conducted and will be included.
Would you be willing to allow your family’s written story to be included in the vault? If so, please drop your story by the museum during open hours before July 24. If you need the story copied and returned to you, please indicate that when you drop it off.
The historical society is working to gather all the family histories possible to leave a gift for future generations.
Imagine the excitement when this treasure trove is opened in 50 years, sharing our collected history. The hope is that the collection will be added to and resealed to share with future generations.
On Aug. 1 at 10 a.m., a short celebration will be held recognizing the 150th anniversary of Colorado’s statehood and the closing of the history vault to preserve the collected memories.
The collection
The majority of the items on display were found, used or produced in the area, including metal art and fossils of the extinct mosasaur — an aquatic reptile that was discovered in Archuleta County.
A few of the exhibitions available to view at the museum include a gem and mineral collection, musical instruments loaned from founding families, some art by beloved community member and teacher Worthe Crouse, and more.
Connect
The museum is located a short walk from downtown at 96 Pagosa St. (the corner of U.S. 160 and 1st Street).
Donations are accepted to offset the operating expenses. The museum relies on private funding and grants to operate, and all donations are greatly appreciated.
The museum is located by the bridge at the east end of downtown. Days and hours of operation are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.
For updates or more information, visit www.pagosamuseum.org.
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