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Mission museum and archives re-opened to visitors Thursday

Mission District Historical Society announced new safety measures in place
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The Mission Museum and Mission Community Archives re-open Thursday, after the pandemic closed their doors for more than a year.

The Mission District Historical Society, which operates the two facilities, said new health protocols are in place to ensure the safety of visitors, staff and volunteers. These include mandatory masks, visitor screening, one-way traffic flow, and regular cleaning of high-touch surfaces.

Reduced visitor capacity will also be in place, and people will have to book an appointment prior to coming.

The archives date back to the early 1890s, originating from a variety of sources – from the municipal government to families and individuals. Visitors can browse the reference library, view historical photographs and maps, read the old newspapers and listen to recorded stories of local pioneers and prominent citizens.

Archive staff can give advice, and help with research year round. “No question is too small or too big,” said a news release from the Mission Community Archives.

The museum’s current exhibit is called “Tuned In: Tools and Technology in Mission,” and features artifacts from old industries and communities, exploring the impact of changing technologies and relationships within the local environment.

It was launched shortly before the museum’s closure in March 2020, but has been extended until February 2022.

Last summer during the closure, staff carried out a “deep clean” of their permanent exhibits. New artifacts from the collection are now on display in the museum’s Victorian parlour room and the 1920s kitchen, and atmospheric sound effects have been added to each room.

The Mission Community Archives are open on Thursdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. To visit the archives, send an email to mca@missionarchives.com, or phone 604-820-2621.

The museum is open Thursdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., as well as on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Book a time online at www.missionmuseum.com, or phone 604-826-1011.

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