Maryhill Museum of Art in S Central Washington state offers indoor and
outdoor experiences. See http://www.maryhillmuseum.org/home.html 

Sherry

-----Original Message-----
From: Museum discussion list [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf
Of Marilynn Havelka
Sent: Tuesday, February 10, 2009 1:29 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: [MUSEUM-L] Program Shift for historic site

I wanted to seek some advice and perhaps comment from those who have
experienced or are thinking of a shift in programing (or have an opinion!).
Ruthven Park is a non-government, not for profit and we are in the throes of
increasing our audience base through membership, admissions etc. for revenue
genereation. We have 1500 acres of cultural and natural landscapes and a
wonderful Greek Revival mansion. We suffer the historic house malaise (been
there, done it) so are expanding our programming to the outdoors. Our shift
will be in offering a day of activities instead of just "one of" smaller
events - to create an experiential visit and a destination (oh yes the site
is rural). 

Any comments on this shift, experiences to share and ideas for great
programs? 

We are also going to increase our admissions - the historic house seems to
subsidize visitors who just come hiking, for picnics etc who do not pay -
the cost to keep the site and keep it safe and presentable for public
enjoyment is quite substantial. I know the economy is the pits and it
perhaps is a bad time to do this but on the other hand we have bills to pay.

Hoping to hear from colleagues.

Thanks
Marilynn


Marilynn Havelka
CAO
Ruthven Park National Historic Site
243 Haldimand Hwy. #54, Box 610
Cayuga, Ontario
905.772.0560  

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