• Sunday-What'sUP August 26 - 08:35 pm

It was a standing-room-only crowd at the old school in Eagle River this afternoon as the Eagle River Museum officially opened. In the top photo, the two ladies in vintage dress (Marcia Mason-L and Joanne Bollinger-R) lead the audience in a rousing song written just for the occasion. (I recorded a little, and may have it later :o) The officials seated in front (starting from the left) are Phil Mason, Jim Vivian (behind Marcia), Mel Jones, Mike Pflaum, and Virgina Jamison.

After all the thank yous to the numerous volunteers who made the day possible, we had refreshments and a tour of the new museum. As you can see there are many photo-history displays and facts and artifacts of the area. The piano in the final photo may well have been the first piano in the Keweenaw, built in 1852. Mel Jones, director at Gitche Gumee and leader of the museum project, told of a fund set up to restore this magnificent instrument to its original quality. We would love to hear Mel's daughter Susie give a concert on it someday. Mel's son Steve Jones did give a little concert on the guitar as guests enjoyed discovering all the new museum had to offer.

Congratulations to the Park Service, Houghton Township, and Keweenaw County Historical Society (of which Edie and I are Lifetime Members) for this milestone in preserving the rich heritage of the Copper Country.

Have a good week :o)

Another interesting location to add to the list when
in the area; what a great addition to "things to do
in Eagle River". It really shows all the hard work
put into it.

Thanks for sharing this with us Charlie!

I echo what Jbuck said!!

How 'bout Marcia's and Joanne's hats! That looks like it was lots of fun!
My oldest sister had a piano like that.
Thank you, Charlie, for sharing all these great "Memories"!

A nice way to preserve history. (BTW, only 4 months until Christmas.)

Superb photographs Charlie---and oh, what an
absolutely wonderful day! The Eagle River Museum
team deserves our kudos for a truly outstanding
accomplishment. Paul and Kathy LaVanway

Good morning Charlie,

The poster which announced the opening of the museum is very interesting! Where did that come from?

And pardon my ignorance, but can you identify the buildings in the poster? Perhaps a church and a couple boarding houses?

What an accomplishment. I am a member of the KCHS as well as the current Vice President of the Allegan County Historical Society. 500+ miles away in lower Michigan. We have the 1st piano in Allegan Co. from 1840 and closely resembles the one above. Very heavy.

Bite your tongue, Thomas.;)