On Friday, August 16, the Lowell Area Historical Museum opened its doors for an evening of history, community, and celebration. The annual Summer Fest fundraiser, a cornerstone event for the museum, brought together residents and history enthusiasts to support the preservation of Lowell’s rich heritage.
Founded in 1989 by a group of dedicated community members, the museum’s mission is “to enrich, delight and inspire the public through the presentation and preservation of the Lowell area history”— a mission that was clearly embraced by the attendees.
As the museum’s grounds transformed into a lively gathering spot, guests enjoyed an array of local culinary delights and beverages from local establishments. The evening was further enriched by the music of the Lowell High School Fusion Quartet, a talented group of students from the Lowell High School Chamber and Symphony Orchestras. Their performances added a melodic backdrop to the festivities.
For many, the evening was a chance to reconnect with friends and neighbors while supporting a cause close to their hearts. Lisa Sostecke, one of the event’s attendees, expressed her appreciation for the museum, stating, “The Lowell Historical Museum is such an asset to the community. We love supporting the museum.”
Jim Hodges, a long-time Lowell resident, echoed this sentiment, sharing how the museum holds a special place in his family’s history. “When we moved to Lowell 42 years ago, I was the YMCA Director, which was formerly housed on the east side of the museum building. My wife, Chris, worked in the library on the west side of the building. We would tap on the walls as a means of communication during the workday,” Hodges reminisced. The couple recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary at the museum, where they hosted a dinner party surrounded by family and friends.
For others, the event was a return to familiar traditions. Kim Lum, another attendee, fondly recalled how the fundraiser was once held on the showboat but was brought back to the museum to highlight its offerings. “This event is about the museum itself, and it’s important to showcase everything it has to offer,” she said.
Jackie Tousley, a retired educator and repeat attendee, shared her deep connection to the museum. “The museum is an educational place, and education will always be a part of my life,” Tousley said. “I always enjoyed bringing students here, and the fact that I grew up here makes it even more special. I appreciate that the story of Lowell is being preserved.”
A particularly moving story came from Annie Whitlock, who spoke about her family’s discovery of hundreds of letters from her grandfather, Bruce McMahon, who served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. These letters have become the basis of a podcast titled Letters Home, which is available on Spotify and highlighted on the museum’s website. Whitlock’s story is a testament to the museum’s role in preserving personal and collective histories alike.
The success of the fundraiser is measured not just in dollars raised, but in the connections made and the community spirit fostered.
“First, this event is to raise money for the programs we host. It’s also to bring people into this beautiful space,” explained Lisa Plank, Director of the Lowell Area Historical Museum. Plank, who has led the museum for the past decade, emphasized the importance of showcasing local businesses, with food and beverages provided by a variety of local sponsors. “We measure the success by headcount, and this year was no disappointment,” she added.
As the evening drew to a close, it was clear that the Lowell Area Historical Museum had once again succeeded in bringing the community together in support of its mission. For those who attended, the fundraiser was more than just an event; it was a celebration of Lowell’s history, its people, and the shared stories that make the community unique.
To stay connected with the museum and support its ongoing efforts, Plank encouraged guests to sign up for emails, visit the museum’s Facebook page, or make donations through their website.
This year’s fundraiser was a vivid reminder of the power of community in preserving and celebrating the past while looking forward to the future.
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