Strawbery Banke Museum, a cornerstone of historical preservation in the state, is proud to announce its new designation as a Smithsonian Affiliate. This prestigious recognition marks a significant milestone for the museum, making it the first Smithsonian Affiliate in New Hampshire and connecting it to a network of over 200 affiliates across the United States, Puerto Rico, and Panama.
The Smithsonian Affiliation is an esteemed status that allows museums and cultural institutions to collaborate with the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex. For Strawbery Banke Museum, this new partnership opens up a wealth of opportunities to enhance its offerings and deepen its impact on the community and beyond.
A Gateway to Smithsonian Resources
As a Smithsonian Affiliate, Strawbery Banke Museum will serve as New Hampshire’s official link to the vast resources of the Smithsonian Institution. This relationship will enable the museum to host traveling exhibitions, borrow artifacts, and co-host public lectures by Smithsonian scholars. The affiliation also allows Strawbery Banke to collaborate on unique public programs and workshops, and co-develop youth programs that bring history to life for the next generation.
"The designation as a Smithsonian Affiliate is an incredible honor for Strawbery Banke Museum," said museum officials. "This partnership will provide unparalleled access to Smithsonian resources, enriching our programs and offering new opportunities for our visitors to engage with history in innovative ways."
Exclusive Benefits and Collaborative Opportunities
In addition to access to Smithsonian resources, Strawbery Banke Museum will have the exclusive right to use a special Smithsonian logo, further solidifying its connection to one of the world’s most respected cultural institutions. The museum will also offer a unique two-in-one membership that provides its members with a range of Smithsonian benefits, including discounts, priority access to events, and invitations to special programs.
This collaboration is expected to bring new educational and cultural opportunities to the region. "By becoming a Smithsonian Affiliate, we can now bring a broader array of exhibits and programs to Portsmouth," said the museum's leadership. "Our visitors and members will have the chance to experience the richness of the Smithsonian’s collections and expertise right here in New Hampshire."
A Legacy of Historical Preservation
Located in the heart of downtown Portsmouth, Strawbery Banke Museum spans 10 acres and interprets over 300 years of history, from Indigenous heritage to the present day. The museum’s historical houses, set on their original foundations, heirloom gardens, traditional crafts, and costumed roleplayers all contribute to an immersive experience that tells the stories of the families who lived in the waterfront neighborhood of Puddle Dock.
The museum is known for its commitment to preserving and sharing the rich history of Portsmouth and the surrounding region. Throughout the year, Strawbery Banke welcomes visitors, members, schoolchildren, and volunteers for a variety of programs, exhibits, skating, and signature special events.
Strawbery Banke Museum is supported by grants from various organizations, including the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation, the New Hampshire State Council on the Arts & National Endowment for the Arts, the Institute of Museum and Library Services, and the National Endowment for the Humanities. These contributions have been instrumental in helping the museum fulfill its mission of preserving and presenting the history of New Hampshire.
As Strawbery Banke Museum embarks on this new chapter as a Smithsonian Affiliate, the museum is excited about the future and the possibilities that lie ahead. This partnership not only enhances the museum’s ability to offer high-quality programs and exhibits but also strengthens its role as a cultural and educational hub for the state of New Hampshire.
For more information on Strawbery Banke Museum’s upcoming events and programs, or to learn more about the new Smithsonian Affiliate membership benefits, visit [StrawberyBanke.org](http://www.strawberybanke.org).
This new affiliation marks a momentous occasion for Strawbery Banke Museum and the state of New Hampshire, promising to bring even more enriching experiences to the local community and beyond.