We got this blog started a few weeks back by kindling a vision for the Museum as a place of conversation in Chilliwack. I believe that our Museum can be a place where learning about our rich history informs the way we live in the present, as well as our dreams and plans for our community’s future. We’re thinking about The Place of the Museum in the City.
Why don’t we get the ball rolling? The Chilliwack Museum & Archives is beginning a new Speakers’ Series – open to everyone – Monday July 6th, here at the Museum @ 7pm. This initial evening will feature a panel discussion which will respond to the question: “How can Museums relate to their communities in new ways?” To answer that question, we will take a look at the Species at Risk travelling exhibition, what goes into the creation of something like that, and what can learn from it. While our Museum focuses primarily on human history, we still have a lot to learn from the incredible natural cultures surrounding us – flora and fauna. Featured panelists will include:
- Dr. Gavin Hanke, Curator, Vertebrate Zoology, Royal BC Museum;
- Janet Hutchinson, Executive Director, Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve;
- John Martin, Member of the Legislative Assembly, Chilliwack;
- Yours truly, Matthew Francis, Executive Director, Chilliwack Museum & Archives.
A while back I got a call from Chis O’Connor from the Learning Department at the Royal BC Museum – that great place of wonder inspiration in Victoria. Did you visit there as a kid on a school trip, or with your family? Maybe you have enjoyed it many times throughout your life. Chris let me know that their Museum was planning a travelling exhibition on Species at Risk, and they were hoping to stop in Chilliwack. Would we be interested in partnering with them to showcase Species at Risk in Chilliwack. For sure! So, for one day only – July 6th – you will have three unique opportunities to experience this informative Royal BC Museum Exhibition here in our city! All these events are free of charge, and open to all.
- July 6th, from 10:00am-12:00 Noon the Species at Risk Exhibition will be located at Hillkeep Regional Park – a pristine wilderness area perched atop Chilliwack Mountain. Never been to this amazing park? This is a great opportunity to check it out and enjoy the lush vegetation and birdsong. I’d like to the Fraser Valley Regional District for making this part of the day possible!
- July 6th, from 1:00pm-4:00pm, Species at Risk will be at the Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve.
- July 6th, 7:00pm: Species at Risk will be showcased in The Place of the Museum in the City Speaker’s series here at the Chilliwack Museum.
Bring your family and friends to see Species at Risk, and experience the Chilliwack Museum as place of learning and fun.
Any questions? Send me a note any time at matthew@chilliwackmuseum.ca.
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