21 Jun 2014 Hidden history in the 501
by Stephanie Byrnes
Hidden in downtown Cabot is a historical treasure. For almost 30 years, Cabot has housed an impressive collection of political, military and social history in its Museum of American History. Boasting artifacts from President Clinton’s 1992 Presidential debate necktie to various Civil War pieces, this surprising local offering truly is a jewel.
Museum director Mike Polston said that people are always impressed with the exhibits here in their own community. “People who come for a visit comment that they never knew that such a collection was available for viewing in Cabot.”
Probably the most interesting exhibit for locals is a large collection on the history of Cabot Schools, but with more than 5,000 artifacts, documents and photographs, there is plenty to interest everyone.
The museum began in 1985 when Polston noticed his students’ interest in history grew when he brought in real objects from history. From that he put together a History Club where students collected artifacts to display in the high school’s library. The goal of the club was to preserve and display artifacts for other students to enjoy, while establishing a museum completely founded and operated by students.
As the club grew momentum and its collection expanded, the high school agreed to help the club find a more permanent location for its exhibits. Space was cleared on campus for the museum initially until it was torn down when the school underwent construction. At that time the museum was packed away for a few years in storage until a better location became available. After much transition, in 2008 the Cabot schools finally leased 114 South St., a vacant downtown building where the museum remains today.
Remarkably, the museum is owned and operated by Cabot Public Schools. Some other funding in the form of donations and a grant from the City of Cabot provide assistance with operation costs.
The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday and Saturday, but if visitors would like to come during non-operating hours, they are welcome to make appointments, as well. School groups and individuals can contact Cabot High School during school hours to speak with Polston about appointment times.
“We just want as many people as possible to come by and visit,” Polston said. “There is a lot to see.”
If you would like to peruse presidential campaign memorabilia, or if artifacts from local Civil War troops interest you but you don’t want to drive too far, Cabot’s Museum of American History may be a perfect place to learn. Right here in the 501, Cabot’s Museum of American History is sure to offer something for everyone.
