No, this isn’t a current photo of the dogwood tree at JPJ, but it’s cold here at the home office, so some sunshine was needed. Soon, the snow will melt and the flowers will bloom!
Our Warmest Thanks to the Thaxter Foundation
The Portsmouth Historical Society recently received a grant from the Rosamond Thaxter Foundation for an exhibition titled “Imagine That! The Power of Picture Books,” planned for display in 2022. Rosamond Thaxter was a philanthropist, writer, public speaker, artist, world traveler, and lifelong resident of Kittery Point, Maine. The Thaxter Foundation has been a consistent supporter of the Society, providing much needed funding for repairs and interpretation at the John Paul Jones House, and supporting past exhibitions at the Discover Portsmouth Welcome Center.
New City Committee to Address Needs of the Arts Community
The Mayor’s Blue Ribbon Committee on Arts and Nonprofits had its first official meeting this week. The committee, which includes a representative of the Portsmouth Historical Society, will work to identify and address the needs, concerns, and issues facing Portsmouth-based nonprofit arts and culture organizations in 2021. As the community navigates and eventually emerges from the ongoing pandemic, the committee’s primary goal will be to work with the city to foster an environment that supports and nurtures our arts and culture organizations and, where possible, provides resources that help them succeed in 2021 and beyond. Portsmouth Historical Society is proud to be part of the team making sure the cultural institutions and nonprofits that make our city such a wonderful place have the support of City Hall. You can see the recording of the committee meeting on the City of Portsmouth’s YouTube Channel.
What Goes On in the “Off Season”
Just because we’re closed doesn’t mean we’re not busy! While building maintenance isn’t the sexiest thing historical societies do, it certainly is important! This off-season we have been working hard at upgrading some of our HVAC motors, doing some redecorating in the Museum Shop, and just recently we had new smoke and heat detectors installed. All very important, and, for those staff members who manage these things, very exciting!
H/t William J. Iannazzi, Inc. for all their hard work!
Springtime Cheer at the Museum Shop
This fun vase is a lovely way to add an artistic flourish to your home office. Made from BPA-free plastic, it lies flat when not in use, and features Claude Monet’s water lilies. Available at our online shop!
History. Arts. Culture.
