Vermont Business Magazine The Vermont Historical Society will receive $210,000 as part of the Fiscal 23 Comprehensive Appropriations Bill passed by the Senate on December 22, 2022. The funding is part of a total of $42 million secured by Senator Sanders through a congressional-led spending process for his 51 projects in Vermont. It benefits communities across the state.
Congress-directed funds will be used to implement an Open Storage and Research Gallery at the Vermont Historical Center in Barre, Vermont. Today, the Vermont Historical Society holds 30,000 of his items in its object collection, some of which are on display at the Vermont Historical Museum in Montpelier, and a smaller exhibit at the Historical Center in Barre. Open Storage showcases the objects that make up Vermont’s story to help expose more of these items.
“These funds will help the Vermont Historical Society complete the vision of the Vermont Historical Center that was launched in 2001,” said Stephen Perkins, executive director of the Vermont Historical Society. “The Vermont Historical Society maintains an impressive collection of museum items that illustrate the long and rich history of Vermont. Completing the Object Study Center will allow Vermonters to experience a hands-on, visual experience of their history. Thank you Senator Sanders for securing these, and thank you to all the donors who have supported the funding and this project from the beginning.”
“Open storage, sometimes referred to as visible storage, is a technique for presenting historical artifacts so that they can be viewed and studied up close,” says VHS Collections and Access Director. Amanda Kay Gustin said. To take out hundreds of previously unseen objects and bring them into the public eye. We hope that this installation will expand the possibilities for research, research, and teaching at the Vermont History Center. ”
“We have made great strides in making our collection digitally accessible through our online catalog, short videos and podcasts,” says Gustin. Thanks to Senator Sanders, this funding allows for a truly first-class setting to share some of Vermont’s treasures with visitors. ”
“Understanding history is essential for all of us,” said Senator Sanders. “Vermonters of all ages and backgrounds should be able to learn about the history of our state. We are proud to have secured sufficient federal funding.”
About the Vermont Historical Society
Founded in 1838, the Vermont Historical Society engages both Vermonters and “Vermonters at heart” in exploring the state’s rich heritage. Our aim is to reach a broad audience through superior collections, statewide outreach, and dynamic programming. We believe that understanding the past changes lives and builds better communities.