(Cont’d) members’ only event (but it’s easy to become a member). Staff will be on hand to guide visitors through the exhibits. On October 26th, we’re hosting “The Story Behind It: Community Show and Tell.” Everyone who attends is invited to bring a special item and talk briefly (1-2 minutes) about that item. We think it will be a fun way for people to gather and share their stories. Finally, on November 9th, we’re debuting a documentary about the Ouilmette family, titled “Ouilmette,” by Susan Kelsey. A Ouilmette descendant, Sharon Hoogstraten, will join Susan for a discussion after the screening. L&J: How can people get involved—whether through membership, volunteering, or other forms of support? Rachel: We’re always looking for volunteer docents to lead tours and to work at special events like our annual housewalk. You can apply to be a volunteer on our website, or reach out to us if you have questions. We also have a membership program, which starts at only $25 a year. Membership comes with a few perks, including special behind the scenes events like I mentioned.
L&J: Can you share an example of an exhibit or program that has had a particularly meaningful impact on the community? Rachel: This spring we hosted a book launch for a book about Jean Cleland, a Wilmette resident who did work on fair housing and social justice. The event was put on by her family, but there were lots of people in attendance who knew Jean or knew of the work she did. Here’s the old event details: https://wilmettehistory.org/event/jean- rolfing-cleland-1923-2013-a-retrospective/ L&J: In what ways does the WHS engage with the local community, including schools, families, or organizations? Rachel: We try to center our programs and material to lots of different audiences. We have events that are better for adults, while others like our summer scavenger hunt, are directed at kids. We do school and scout tours. Also we have a community exhibition policy, meaning that we have a space set aside for community members or organizations to display their artwork, photographs, and other projects. L&J: Are there any upcoming exhibits, events, or initiatives you’d like the community to know about? Rachel: We have fun programming for the fall season! Our Curated Evenings event is on October 23rd from 5:30-7pm. This is a
For The Full Interview:
Made with FlippingBook interactive PDF creator