My answer... "little by little."
Dear Friend of the Museum -
So many friends and colleagues ask - "How is it going?" As you can imagine, there is not a simple answer. I try to embrace the positive things that are happening. I report I am truly grateful for the emergency support we have received, and for all who are helping us move our program forward. We are getting stronger and moving forward "little by little."
It is an understatement to say this moment has not been a challenge beyond imagination. Made worse because no one knows what the future holds. Our business community, our social service networks, our local government, and our cultural community have been hugely impacted. We all feel this.
The ACM has been affected as well. Virtually all our earned revenue has been reduced or eliminated. And for a nonprofit cultural organization, this can be a crisis. We are fortunate we are so small. While we have cut back on our expenses, no one has been let go and our plans for the future are intact. And most important, when you read below, you will see we are "making the pivot" and have begun to develop online programs for you.
Also, our efforts to develop the Industrial History Center continue. This has not been easy, but it will happen. And when we come out from this, we will have much to share and celebrate. Little by little - we are getting there. I hope you will stay with us!
Sincerely yours,
John Mayer, Executive Director
jmayer@amesburycarriagemuseum.com
Here is a listing of things ahead:
Mill 2 Panorama - Bonnie Brady photographer - on view in Aperture on Amesbury.
Aperture on Amesbury - an exhibit in Amesbury City Hall on view by appointment from July 20 to September 24, and soon to be online. Organized by ACM staff Bonnie Brady and guest curator Courtney Jordan, this is a presentation of images made by participants who were part of our 2019 tour.
Family Stories - this year we will present an online program with Bob Grodzicki, a community curator and advocate for Amesbury history. We have partnered with Amesbury Community TV and will present our conversation on Wednesday, August 19. Details will be available soon.
Annual Meeting - our 35th annual meeting will be a virtual affair on Monday, September 14. You will be able to join us online and be part of a special program followed by our business meeting. Stay informed and involved - and plan to join us!
The Early Industries of Amesbury - coming this Fall, the date for this program is to be determined. Organized by members of our Industrial Survey Team, the event will feature a hybrid of presentations, tours and workshops organized to explore the history of worklife in Amesbury beginning in the 1600s.