From data processing to sound to phonographs to typewriters and calculators, they are forms of communication.  The current exhibit now opening is simply called “Communications”.  It has been arranged in a fashion that these items show how they relate to each other.  It also shows the wide variety of items housed in the museum collection.

Brad Henderson, volunteer who is 16 years old, has had the lead in the assembling and researching the items in the exhibit.  Albert Warren, volunteer, and Louise Colville, Museum director, have assisted in the technical aspect and the arranging of the artifacts.  Many of the items displayed were placed in the exhibit for two purposes, showing the artifact and also having them available to be touched by the visitors.  The items that can be touched will need to have assistance from the museum staff. 

 An old table top Silverstone record player fills the museum with music of a century ago.  An antique pump organ gives a work out as the music is made.  The almost century and a half square grand piano thrills everyone with the quality of music that it gives.

The stereoscope was the first 3D viewer of its kind.  The person using the viewer can see photos that are printed with two pictures side by side and when looking through the two lenses at the photos, the viewer can get a 3D picture.  This special item is one of the artifacts that can be view with assistance from the museum staff.

A small 1940s typewriter has been used in the school display for several years and each class from the area who visited the museum has had the opportunity to type on it.  Many students have never seen a typewriter of this vintage.

The exhibit will run through July. 
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For more information, please contact the Rio Grande County Museum at (719)657-2847 or check our Facebook page.  The Museum is located at 580 Oak Street in Del Norte.  The hours are Tuesday through Friday 10 am to 4 pm and Saturday 10 am to 3 pm.