Director's Message

Summer 2002

The Higgins Armory Museum held its 74th Annual Meeting on April 24. Trustees, Incorporators, and members gathered to hear the good news: 2001 was a banner year for the Higgins, with income (Revenue and Support) exceeding $1 million for the first time. And, in a year when many of our sister organizations experienced a sharp decline in attendance, the Higgins reached an all-time high with more than 54,000 admissions, and another 20,000 people attending special events and Outreach programs. Attendance at education, exhibit-related, annual, and special-interest programs increased by an average of 30% over last year. Certain events, such as Founder's Day and Holidays at the Higgins, saw attendance of more than double 2000 numbers.

Our most beloved special event was held recently; nearly 2,000 people heralded the "Merrie Month of May" at the largest Higgins Faire ever. Visitors enjoyed performances by the Higgins Armory Museum Sword Guild, Pumpernickel Puppets, and Magic by Peter Gross. Representative artisanal works included steel forging by Ted Hinman, jewelry and accessory design by Ellen Kraus, and mail-making with Marcia Cummings. The Higgins Armory Museum thanks sponsors A.G. Edwards, the Telegram & Gazette, Polar Beverages, and the Young Businessmen's Association for contributions of financial backing, promotional support, material supplies, and volunteer hours, which ensured the success of the Faire.

The Faire kick-started the summer programs for Higgins enthusiasts of all ages. Whether you are interested in historical swordplay or in sending your young Sir Galahad for a week with King Arthur, the Museum offers a wide variety of visitor experiences. Cool your heels on one of our special summer gallery tours, with topics from Shakespeare to the Peloponnesian wars. Educators of students grades K-8 can participate in the Museum Institute for Teaching Science program in July, exploring the Higgins Armory Museum and four other Central Mass museums. With three Castle Quest weeks this summer, parents have a variety of options for their children ages 8-11. Finally, the Higgins Armory Sword Guild will sponsor its first event, a special hands-on workshop and book-signing by Christian Tobler, who has recently translated a manuscript on secrets of German medieval swordsmanship.

As we expand the scope of our programs to cover as broad a cultural and historical context as possible, we ask our visitors to continue to challenge us. Let us know what programs you would like to see, to help you "step back in time". During your visits to the Higgins Armory this summer, please take a moment to complete a visitor evaluation form at our Front Desk, and consider a Museum Membership. With your involvement, you can help us continue to bring the past to life.