In recent days, Gary and I have been working on various projects at the museum. He is repairing holes and fixing the old siding of the house in preparation for a fresh coat of paint and a new sign that will say, "Albert Long Museum." Ever since I've known him, he's been restoring old buildings and homes, and I believe he always will. Throughout most of my adult life, I've been organizing and sorting books, papers, and memorabilia. There is something very satisfying about bringing order to chaos, though the process can feel like navigating turbulent waters until a calm scene finally appears. I'm managing to keep my head above the waves, and having someone to share the task with certainly makes it easier. Mike Spohnholtz is mapping our current electrical outlets and capabilities and will suggest updates. Our goal is to bring past recorded interviews with Entiat residents, some of whom have passed away, to a future video display for visitors to listen to and watch.
By chance, the topic we are currently discussing and learning about in our Volunteer Museum Learning Cohort is titled "Collections - Should it Stay or Should it Go?" As we sift through the numerous papers, tools, books, artifacts, and various items—some related to Entiat history and others uncertain—we need guidance to make good decisions. I am optimistic that what we learn this month will assist us in making those choices. Phyllis Griffith, our historian, is the foremost authority on most of our holdings, and the insights of other long-time members will also be invaluable.
The true rewards emerge when, during the process of organizing, a photo, a drawing, or a story surfaces that creates a genuine connection to the past lives in the Entiat Valley. The scenes below, featuring a stunning mountain captured by a hiker in the valley, a group of diners in a cafe in the old town, of customers shopping in Fate Dick's hardware store, of three men observing an excavator shaping the future path of Highway 97A and the soon-to-be-flooded town below, a drawing of the old home, shed, and barn before it became a museum, and Gertrude Bonar, born in this old home, standing in front of the museum at its dedication in 1979, all captivated me and made the effort worthwhile. Even more inspiring is the hope that this old home will foster connection and warm conversations with visitors in the upcoming summer season.
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