Giving Tuesday is a worldwide movement that started in 2012 as a way to spread kindness and generosity. Participants are encouraged to help make the world a better place by giving back to their communities in a variety of ways, from helping a neighbor or donating to their favorite non-profit organization. This Giving Tuesday we ask you to consider supporting the Mount Prospect Historical Society by making a donation, becoming a member, or making a purchase in our Museum Store. Please read below to see some of the ways your donation contributes to the success of MPHS.
Collection
Our Historical Society mission is to preserve the history of Mount Prospect, but how exactly do we do that? In honor of Giving Tuesday, we’ll be taking you behind the scenes to show you some of the ways that we preserve history here at the Mount Prospect Historical Society.
We have over 6,500 artifacts in the Historical Society collection. Among these artifacts are pieces of demolished buildings, Sammy Skobel’s roller skates, Mayor William Busse’s suit, and hundreds of documents and photos recording people, places, and events from the last two centuries. And we’re always adding new artifacts! Each one of these objects contributes to the story of Mount Prospect and preserving them is one of the ways that we literally preserve history.
Historic objects, however, are tricky to care for. Different materials require different preservation methods, and all objects need archival-quality storage containers and packing supplies to prevent deterioration. With the right materials and storage conditions, all 6,500 artifacts under our care will continue to tell Mount Prospect’s stories for generations to come.
Education/Programming
Part of preserving Mount Prospect history includes sharing that history with all of you! We host various programs all year round that provide guests of all ages an opportunity to learn a little more about Mount Prospect’s past. Maybe you’ve stopped by the Historical Society to watch a Blacksmith Demonstration, taken a tour of the Dietrich Friedrichs House, crafted a masterpiece during a Second Sunday at the Society program, or perhaps you plan to attend this year’s Holiday Housewalk.
While an event may only last a few hours, each one is the result of months of planning. Staff, board members, and volunteers all pitch in to prepare by scheduling activities, testing out crafts, researching topics, reserving space, and purchasing supplies, just to name a few responsibilities. It really does “take a village” to make a program happen, and we couldn’t do any of it without such a committed team.
Museum Store
If you’re searching for a unique gift or an item that brings back memories of growing up in Mount Prospect, our Museum Store has just that. The best part is that you get to bring home or give a piece of Mount Prospect history, all while supporting the Historical Society.
Though it may not always be obvious, our Museum Store plays an essential role in fulfilling our mission. Proceeds from each purchase go towards covering various museum expenses, from restocking archival materials and program supplies to funding repairs on our historic buildings. Your donation/purchase also supports the creation of new product designs. If you haven’t yet checked out the products in our Museum Store, you can shop online at https://www.mtphist.org/shop/.