Historical artifacts and displays at the Pioneer Museum on the second floor of the Castle Dale City Building will soon be moved to the Museum of the San Rafael. The Emery County Museum Board voted unanimously to relocate these reminders of our local pioneer heritage because of concerns about the stability and accessibility of the current Pioneer Museum space. Moving these historical treasures to the Museum of the San Rafael will preserve and protect them while allowing easier access for the viewing public.
The Castle Dale City Building was erected in 1902 and is showing its age. The roof leaks and shows signs of structural failure. Some of the building’s adobe walls are damaged or disintegrating. The Museum Board is obligated to protect displays, and can’t guarantee the safety of historical objects in their present location. Castle Dale City is moving to a new building in the near future, raising questions about future maintenance of the Pioneer Museum.
The current Pioneer Museum does not meet access requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Museum of the San Rafael is fully compliant with the ADA. People who would otherwise not be able to view these objects will now be able to enjoy them.
Pioneer Museum displays will be carefully relocated to the multi-purpose room of the Museum of the San Rafael, where they will be stored and displayed. The Museum Board recognizes that this room has been used for public and private events, and regrets that this will not be possible so long as Pioneer displays are housed there. However, suitable options are available nearby for these events. The overriding concerns of the Museum Board are the safety, preservation and enjoyment of historical objects. The stated mission of the Museum is to “…preserve the vast heritage of Emery County and to stimulate interest, pride, and education of our Native American, Paleontological, Archeological, Geological and Pioneer historical heritages.” This action is necessary for the Board to carry out its mission.
Questions, comments or concerns can be directed to Maegan Wilberg, San Rafael Museum Director at 435-381-3560 or 435-381-3561.
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