ARLINGTON — History museums in Snohomish County are struggling with budget cuts and dwindling grant money.
Despite the economics involved, people who are passionate about local history continue to document and preserve the past, said Karen Prasse, president of the League of Snohomish County Heritage Organizations.
“With no money and no staff, people are producing the most amazing projects,” Prasse said. “When our group gets together it provides a way for historians to share their experiences. People get to talk about what works and what doesn’t when they interpret history.”
At its recent annual banquet, the league bestowed its Malstrom Award to the Stillaguamish Valley Pioneer Association of Arlington and Larry and Helen Starr for publishing “The Story of A Great Forest, 1888-1951.”
The book is Will Verd’s 1954 account of the local logging industry, primarily in the Stillaguamish Valley. The book serves as an important resource, Prasse said.
Two special recognition awards also were made.
Everett Public Library’s Northwest Room podcast team was recognized for its use of new technology in interpreting local history beyond the traditional responsibilities of libraries.
The team includes Kara Fox, Melinda Van Wingen, Cameron Johnson, Doug Oakes, Kevin Duncan and David Dilgard.
Charles LeWarne, author of “The Love Israel Family,” published last year by the University of Washington Press, also was recognized. The book is a study of the Love Israel community and an analysis of popular culture.
The Malstrom Award was created in honor of league charter member Helmer Malstrom. Malstrom was an author and historian specializing in Everett history.
The award has been given annually since 1985 for the outstanding heritage project in Snohomish County. Awards have been made for historical publications, the rebuilding of historic structures, the creation of new museums and various special exhibits.
Also nominated for the Malstrom Award this year:
“Bridges Around the Darrington Area” research project and program by the Darrington Historical Society.
Sno-Isle Libraries’ oral history project “Collecting Our Veteran’s Stories.”
“City of Lynnwood’s 50th Birthday” exhibit by the Alderwood Manor Heritage Association.
The 2010 calendar “Marysville Historical Society’s Tribute to the 100th Anniversary of Women’s Suffrage in Washington State.”
A collection and digital index of “The First People Collection” by Sno-Isle Genealogical Society.
An exhibit, study guide and program, “E.C. Ferguson in Steilacoom, 1858-59: A Prologue to the Founding of Snohomish,” by the Snohomish Historical Society.
For more information about the awards, go to www.snocoheritage.org.
Gale Fiege: 425-339-3427; gfiege@heraldnet.com.
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