Gift Supports New Exhibit Celebrating Manchester’s Franco-American Heritage
MANCHESTER, NH – St. Mary’s Bank recently made a $2,000 donation to the Manchester Historic Association in support of its new exhibit at the Millyard Museum. The contribution makes possible an interactive computer kiosk where museum visitors can learn about the Manchester of the 1880s. The exhibit Nous sommes ici! We are here! A celebration of Manchester's Franco-American Heritage opened Saturday, April 12.
“This fascinating exhibit explores the important cultural contributions made by the French Canadian immigrants who settled here in Manchester from the mid 19th Century into the early 20th Century,” said Aurore Eaton, Manchester Historic Association Interim Executive Director. “The kiosk is a key piece in the exhibit, and we’re grateful to St. Mary’s Bank for lending their support.”
The computer kiosk, entitled Nous sommes ici! Now find us!, gives patrons access to 1880 federal census records for Manchester. Visitors can learn about the people who lived in their neighborhood in the 1880s, what they did for a living, where they were from, and even where their own ancestors lived. The database was developed by Dr. Robert Macieski at the University of New Hampshire at Manchester.
“St. Mary’s Bank is proud to honor Manchester’s past,” said Thomas Champagne, St. Mary’s Bank Director of Community Outreach. “Our credit union has strong ties to the French Canadian immigrants who settled in the city. When we opened our doors in 1908, it was primarily to serve their financial needs.”
The Nous sommes ici! We are here! exhibit includes textiles, paintings, trade cards, signs, hockey memorabilia (courtesy of the New Hampshire Legends of Hockey), and photographs. The exhibit will be on display until January 3, 2009.
About the Manchester Historic Association
For over a century the Manchester Historic Association has preserved the rich history of a classic American city – Manchester, New Hampshire. Through exhibits, tours, lectures, school programs, and family events, the MHA brings the city's fascinating story alive for people of all ages. Visit Manchester Historic Association for more information.