Home / Arts and Entertainment / Glass Museum Unveils Dazzling Renovation
Glass Museum Unveils Dazzling Renovation
22 Jun
Summary
- Museum renovation completed after 35 years without updates.
- New technology and interactive features enhance visitor experience.
- Renovation funded by state grants and community philanthropy.
The Bergstrom-Mahler Museum of Glass in Neenah is celebrating the completion of its $785,000 renovation with a community event on June 27. This extensive upgrade marks the first significant update in nearly 35 years, addressing both the galleries and accessibility. The "Our Time to Shine Community Celebration" will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the museum.
The renovation focused on modernizing the visitor experience while preserving the museum's historical character. Enhancements include new LED lighting, a redesigned welcome center, and improved display cases that accommodate visitors using wheelchairs and children. Interactive kiosks featuring videos on glass paperweight creation are also new additions.
Funding for the project came from a $250,000 state grant, a $90,300 grant from the Fox Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau, and significant contributions from community philanthropists. The museum, Wisconsin's only glass museum, attracts over 32,000 visitors annually and offers free admission. It houses the world's largest public display of glass paperweights and notable collections of decorative glass and contemporary glass sculpture.
