Museum reopens after months of COVID closure

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After six months, the Jefferson County Historical Society opened the doors at the Jefferson Museum of Art & History again Sept. 5. 

The Office of the Governor issued permission for cultural institutions, including museums, to re-open with specific guidelines for resuming operations, thus society officials have instituted the following health and safety precautions at the museum.

Face masks are required and provided for all visitors over the age of 2; touch-free transactions are encouraged and staff are limiting cash transactions where possible; limited number of visitors are admitted to allow for generous spacing; a one-way path has been established through the museum, guided by arrows on the floor to help patrons navigate; restrooms and common areas are cleaned and sanitized frequently; hand-washing sinks and sanitizing stations have been added around the museum, as well as increased signage with relevant information about safety requirements.

Also, the current show has been extended.

“We are excited (and have butterflies too) for the re-opening of the Jefferson Museum of Art & History and have extended Anne Hirondelle’s retrospective exhibition ‘Not Done Yet’ through November,” Jefferson County Historical Society executive director Shelly Leavens said in a recent email.

“The museum will remain open on weekends through the fall and we will revisit extending our operating hours in the months to come,” she said. “We intend to stay open for as long as we feel we can provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all our fellow humans.”

Society officials said the Research Center, Rothschild House, and Commanding Officer’s Quarters will remain closed to the public for now.

The Gateway Visitor Center will continue to welcome visitors to explore options for recreation on the peninsula through new kiosks on the outside of the building, and constant website updates.