It is December as we prepare this report and the final plans and activities of 2009 have reached the implementation stage at the Webster Museum and Historical Society. A review of the past months assures us that growth continues, programs are expanding and that the organization remains firmly within the financial perimeters envisioned for the year. The key to ongoing success is a supportive community and a Volunteer Staff of over 50 people who provide the energy, hundreds of hours of time and creative ideas which lead to continued growth and development.

Our building remains in good repair. The snow stops on the roof have been replaced. The records indicate that the computer system installed several years ago to control energy, assure the temperature and the humidity necessary to maintain the collections in our care as well as the records of the Town and Village Historian is functioning well.

A look at the Museum's activities for 2009 shows increased attention to activities related to our financial responsibilities. Donations from community groups and individuals were generous and we are grateful to all who provided and participated. Fund Raising activities by the Museum board, volunteers, members and community groups met our needs. We are able to continue to have a policy of "no admission fee" but we will need to encourage donations from those who visit the Museum and continue our Fund Raising efforts. This year we initiated a History related Program on one Sunday afternoon each month. "History and a Cup" Luncheons continued during Preservation Month and we enjoyed stories about growing up in Webster and took pause when we heard words from Civil War days. Ten properties were awarded plaques from the Town of Webster in recognition of their historic significance as fine examples of our rural heritage through the continued work of the Historic Properties Committee. (Photos and descriptions of the homes are available on our Web Site). Tools and equipment in the Barn were labeled and their use described.

Enhanced programming was evident in the scope of programs including those for Webster Central School District Students. Second graders from several schools developed a digital photographic project relating to artifacts selected by the students and their teachers. The project will appear on our Web Site (www.webstermuseum.com). in the near future. Program development continues to focus on activities which are “hands on”, encouraging student participation and interaction, and still protect the integrity of our collection. Teaching docents provided a History Day at Parks and Recreation during the summer, participated in a Colonial Days program and provided onsite programs at school buildings during the school year. They hosted over 1500 boys and girls at the Museum.

Through the Exhibit Committee’s work at the Museum on Lapham Park and in the display case in the Public Library we were able share with the Community both the quality and scope of the collections for which we have the privilege and responsibility of providing care. An Exhibit of Textiles allowed us to display our quilts and explore, at a family workshop, the many facets of producing heirloom textiles. We celebrated Mr. Lincoln’s Birthday, learned about Wartime Collectables and offered our own “Road Show” of antiques. Over 400 parents and children enjoyed games, contests and fun at the Museum Halloween Party. The Festival of Trees and the annual presentation of the Burkhardt Crèche rounded out the year.

The Museum Web Site added a "Kid's Page" which includes local history projects, games and puzzles about Webster. Links among Web Sites allow the community to travel from the Museum to town and village sites for information and research. The quarterly Newsletter which is received by Museum Members added photographs, color and a revised lay out. Based upon the identification of some of our artifacts, research was initiated and will continue into 2010 relating to the history of the Webster area following the ice age and during the time of the hunter/gatherers.

As we look forward to 2010, the Museum would like to invite you to visit, talk with us, share your ideas and become a member of one of the fastest growing organizations in our vibrant community.