 Doris Shaw, Chair, Board of Trustees |  Mindy Krazmien Executive Director |
2011 Annual Appeal
Dear Friend,
As we write, our celebrated painting, The Gun Foundry, John Ferguson Weir’s 1866 depiction of America’s industrial life, lights the gallery at the Brigham Young University’s exhibition of Weir family works of art. We are already looking forward to opening our own 2012 exhibition season with the reprise of one of the most successful exhibitions in PCHS history—America The Beautiful: Women and the American Flag, which has been on its own coast-to-coast tour for several years!
Events such as these remind us that we are indeed keepers of the flame—preserving the history of this community for 105 years. You—and all of our members—play an essential role in this mission as supporters of our efforts to enhance understanding of the history of our region and its critical role in the wider history of our nation.>
We ask you to continue your support. We have successfully managed the challenges of a faltering economy throughout 2011, and, while we expect 2012 to be another tough year financially, we are excited about our plans.
Key among them are strengthening our roots—reinstalling our beloved 19th century schoolroom, returning our West Point Foundry parade Parrott cannon to its proud position on our front lawn, and mounting a new permanent, hands-on exhibition from our collection of Putnam County farm implements and domestic objects. These projects are costly but significant reflections of our rich heritage. The revenue generated by our annual appeal is vital to achieving these enhancements.
Following America the Beautiful, we will present another major special exhibition in June—A Summer Afternoon: A Century of Fashion, 1850–1950—featuring highlights from our outstanding collection of women’s costumes. We are delighted that Hanky Panky, a lingerie firm owned by Lida Orzeck and Philipstown resident Gale Epstein, will generously provide substantial funding for this exhibition—and design a small collection inspired by charming period fashions to be included.
We have a lot on our plate. In addition to special exhibitions and new initiatives, we open our doors five days a week as a museum, lecture hall, genealogical resource, research library for young students and scholars, and social network. We strive to keep a flame of passion afire, among residents and visitors both, for the things that make this place special— our storied past, the natural splendor of the Hudson River Valley, and our commitment to small-town community.
We depend on your support to ensure our plans become reality!
Sincerely,