Program focuses on HSC Museum history

The next meetings of the Hot Springs County Historical Society and the Pioneer Association will be on Saturday, April 8 at Hot Springs County Museum. The Pioneer annual meeting is scheduled for 12:30 p.m., while the Historical Society meeting will be at 2 p.m.

However, there will also be a special joint program at 2:15 p.m., titled “Of Archives, Conundrums, Spooks and Strategies: The Story of Our Museum,” presented by museum staff.

The program will highlight what the present staff is doing to make the museum more researchable, more relevant, up-to-date and a destination for those coming to Thermopolis. Both staff and board members will be present to answer questions and show parts of the museum considered “behind the scenes,” such as the clothing room, storage area and library.

Pete Coggi with the museum further noted the program would include information about the founding of the museum and how it came to be in its current location, as well as the recent work they’ve been doing to put the museum collection on computers and online, and make it more interactive through QR codes which can be scanned.

Other points of the presentation are the strange, unexplained events that happen in the building and tours of “dungeon,” a term used to describe the mannequin room.

Ray Shaffer added he’s heard from people that Hot Springs County Museum is one of the best in the state.

Coggi said the event also serves as a call for volunteers. He noted there are several jobs people can do, and anyone interested in helping out and/or learning more about the museum is welcome to come to the program or stop by any time during regular hours.

Following the program, take the opportunity to whet your whistle and belly up to the world famous Hole in the Wall Bar, a special venue for refreshments including sarsaparilla.

The meeting is free and open to everyone interested in the history of Thermopolis, Hot Springs County and the State of Wyoming.