The City of Colton is shining a bit brighter this week with the grand reopening of the Colton Area Museum, a historic gem that's received a cutting-edge makeover. The museum, which once housed the original 1908 Colton Carnegie Public Library, closed its doors in 1982 only to be reborn as the Colton Area Museum in 1991. Following an extensive revamp, the museum is back in action, promising a modernized experience that doesn't just pay homage to the past but invites community engagement.
In what has been a clear effort to both preserve and contemporize, the San Bernardino County Museum (SBCM) teamed up with the museum and the City of Colton to give the museum's exhibits and space a much-needed facelift. They managed to not just successfully redesign, but also to create a fun, interactive, and inclusive space that's ready to accommodate Colton's complete community with an ever-evolving narrative.
Christina Perris, Board President of the Colton Area Museum, expressed gratitude for the substantial guidance and assistance offered by the San Bernardino County Museum's director and curatorial staff. "We truly hope that this new vision of the museum speaks to a more inclusive, ever-evolving narrative history of Colton, which will grow and change as more exciting pieces of Colton’s rich past are discovered by residents and hope they will become active patrons in the museum’s bright future," Perris conveyed in a statement obtained by the official announcement.
The collaborative project aimed to provide fresh insight into Colton's rich history, its cultural heritage, and the enduring community pride that has helped shape Colton's character and culture to this day. SBCM Director David Myers highlighted the partnership's significance, saying, "The project provides a new perspective into the exceptionally rich history of Colton and shares a look into their cultural heritage and sense of community pride, which still exists and has helped shape the character and culture of Colton to this day." Myers stated with an air of pride in an interview with the San Bernardino County website.
The Colton Area Museum is all about uplifting public awareness of local history through its displays of historic artifacts and outreach programs. Indeed, the City of Colton, with its burgeoning role in business and community opportunities, is determined to ensure it remains among the finest places in Southern California for work, life, and enjoyment. As the city marches forward, it preserves a focus on essential aspects of the community such as high-quality living, education, job creation, and a rich cultural tapestry. Colton bills itself as a destination for those in pursuit of both community and an exceptional quality of life.
For those itching for a taste of culture and history, more information about the revamped museum and its offerings can be found by visiting museum.sbcounty.gov or by dialing (909) 798-8608 for the San Bernardino County Museum's ears only.
