Springfield History Museum to Temporarily Close January to July 2026
The Springfield History Museum will temporarily close to the public from January 1 through July 10, 2026 to support a major collections care initiative. During this time, staff and volunteers will focus on processing, conserving, and organizing thousands of historical artifacts to ensure their long-term preservation.
The Museum is home to more than 11,000 objects related to the history of Springfield and rural east Lane County. These items, from photographs and letters to tools, textiles, and more, are used in exhibits, programs, and research to help connect residents and visitors with the region’s past.
“Focusing our work on caring for these precious artifacts is truly in the public’s interest. If we lose these objects through neglect, we lose the story of our community.”
– Maddi McGraw, Museum Curator
This behind-the-scenes work requires significant time, space, and attention. The closure will allow staff and trained volunteers to dedicate themselves fully to inventory, conservation, and exhibition planning.
The Museum will reopen to the public on July 12, 2026, just in time for the Downtown Second Friday Art Walk. The reopening will feature a brand-new exhibit and a remodeled rotating gallery space.
While the museum is closed:
- Access the Online Catalog: Explore nearly 7,000 digitized records at
wheremindsgrow.org/history_museum/online_catalog - Follow Along Online: Stay connected and follow our progress on Facebook and Instagram
- Volunteer or Learn More: Interested in helping with this important collections project? Contact Maddi McGraw at 541-726-3677 or mmcgraw@springfield-or.gov.
The City of Springfield and the Museum team thank the community for their support. They look forward to welcoming visitors back in July 2026 with refreshed spaces and new opportunities to explore local history.
About the Springfield History Museum
The Springfield History Museum, managed by the Springfield Public Library, serves as the City’s official historical repository and interpretive center. The Museum’s mission is to foster awareness of Springfield’s history, connect the past to the present, and celebrate the diverse communities that call Springfield and rural east Lane County home.
Regular Museum hours are Thursday–Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Admission is always free.
Discover more from Springfield Bottom Line
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
