Cumberland Museum and Archives re-opened its doors on Friday afternoon.
While many facilities had temporarily shut down because of COVID-19 restrictions, the museum had an additional reason. The facility was going ahead with a major overhaul both to improve the infrastructure of the facility and allow for more options for exhibits.
As Mayor Leslie Baird said during her remarks at the re-opening, “I have noticed so many artifacts that we have never seen before.”
Some of the aims of the renovation were to increase the area for collections storage and improve public access to the archive collection. Other work included adding a new HVAC system, lighting and electrical upgrades. The redesign also meant the washroom was made more accessible.
Executive director Rosslyn Shipp pointed out the archives have their own HVAC system and a fire suppression system that does not use water.
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During the opening, visitors had the chance to walk through the interactive display areas, which featured exhibits on mining, forestry, fishing, recreation and more. Downstairs, one wall displayed “Community Curiosities” such as wooden bowling balls, sheet music for “My Little Comox Valley,” a poster for a Michael Franti and Spearhead concert in Village Park and a bottle from Cumberland Brewing Company alongside an empty can of Lucky Lager.
Most conspicuously was an empty case commemorating Cumberland’s Black community members going back to the early years of the gold rush in the 19th century. As a sign pointed out, museums have often focused on European or colonialist points of view, resulting in gaps in the community’s story.
During the opening, Shipp alluded to the evolutionary aspects of history while speaking about the facility’s own 40-year history.
“Over these 40 years, the museum has grown, shifted, as have the stories of our community and the lens through which we view them,” she said.
She and board chair Karen Melnyk credited the efforts of many partners, including the K’ómoks First Nation, staff and volunteers, financial supporters and the construction team.
“Every step, every decision, every detail was meticulously reviewed,” Shipp said.
Most notably, they credited the generosity of Raymond and Terry Heung. Through the Y.P. Heung Foundation, they made a grant that covered a large portion of the project’s costs. The project also received funding support from the Canadian Heritage, the province and local government.
Courtenay-Alberni MP Gord Johns was also invited to say a few words, as he pointed out the reputation of the facility extends across the country. He also complimented the project organizers for making considerations around accessibility and clean energy.
“What an incredible contribution to Cumberland,” he said. “This is a great investment by Canadian taxpayers.”
mike.chouinard@comoxvalleyrecord.com
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