MANITOWANING—Established in 1955, the Assiginack Museum and the Assiginack Horticultural Society were founded and both are celebrating their 70th anniversary this year.
“When the museum started, it was also the municipal building and library,” said Kelsey Maguire, curator of the museum. “Horticultural members would take care of the flower beds at the museum building and around the community (Manitowaning).”
The museum and horticultural society will be holding a combined celebration ceremony for their joint 70th anniversaries on Friday, August 8, at noon on the museum grounds in Manitowaning. “Our basic itinerary will include Deb Robinson leading everyone in singing the national anthem at 12 noon, followed by remarks by the Mayor (Brenda Reid),” said Mr. Maguire. He will then be presenting the history of the museum, followed by plaque presentations. A representative of the Horticultural Society will then talk about its history.
Everyone on hand is invited to join the museum and horticultural society for cake and refreshments afterward. There will be free admission to the museum all day, from 10 am to 5 pm.
Since 1955, the Assiginack Museum has been telling the stories and history of Assiginack township. The museum complex is home to several historic buildings, including an 1878 jail, the 10 Mile Point schoolhouse, a pioneer home, a blacksmith shop and the Sparrow Farm barn. Excellent collections related to the community’s history, farming, military, pioneer life, native art and artifacts, glassware and much more can be found on exhibit. A research room and the museum’s archives can be accessed by appointment.
