Saginaw mobile museum receives federal grant dollars

An innovative mobile museum and classroom in Saginaw has received a $10,000 boost from the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services.

The Castle Museum received the grant for History on the Move, a mobile classroom that features an interactive archeological dig and an exhibit highlighting the history of the area. Started about two months ago, the 53-foot converted moving van brings the museum experience to classrooms and events throughout the community.

"We are thrilled to be one of less than 200 museums nationwide and only 12 in Michigan chosen for a grant," says Ruth Mancina, marketing and events coordinator for the museum.

The grant is part of the institute's Museums for America program, which provides funding to museums nationwide. This year, the institute granted a total of $19.5 million to 178 museums, out of a total of 510 applicants in 39 states.

The Castle Museum will use the grant dollars for operating costs associated with History on the Move, Mancina says. The program provides a way for cash-strapped schools to provide students with a field trip experience without having to leave the classroom. The museum also takes History on the Move to local events as a way to bring the museum experience to people of all ages throughout the community.

"It means we have the money to operate for an entire school year," Mancina says. "And we are excited that so many kids in Saginaw County will be exposed to their local history and the Castle Museum."

The Castle Museum in Saginaw has retrofitted a 53-foot moving van with an interactive archeological exhibit on wheels to bring the museum experience to children and to area events. Started about two months ago, History on the Move highlights the archeological history of Michigan and the Saginaw Valley, considered one of the most abundant archeological areas in the state.

Writer: Jenny Cromie
Source: Castle Museum, Ruth Mancina