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Bob Jones Museum
We all have a history, a story that makes us unique and stand apart from the crowd. Even standing next to our sibling or first cousin, even though we may share the same family story or genetics, we each have our own history, our own little mark on this world.
Communities are no different. There was a founder – someone who decided, “This is the place I will settle or grow a business.” Maybe it’s a landmark or transportation hub that gives a community it’s unique story. However just like your own personal story, if no one knows about it or you don’t share it with the younger generations, how will your story be carried on?
Superior’s history is kept, recorded and maintained by a non-profit organization known as the Superior Historical Society. The society was founded in the late 1980s after the Superior Museum Association closed. The Superior Historical Society worked with the Town of Superior to develop the Bob Jones Museum at 300 Main St. in Superior. The home of the museum was the home of former Governor Bob Jones, who was Arizona’s sixth Governor. After much hard work and financial investment by donors to the museum Superior finally had a home for the history of the community.
Another project that the Superior Historical Society collaborated and constructed was the Mining History Trail and the Copper Corridor Ore Cart public art tribute to miners at the US 60 Park.
What does this organization need: The historical museum is ran completely by volunteers, their board members and members of the organization. Society President Richard Hing explained that the group needs more volunteers to help keep the museum open and help with fundraisers. Currently the only income that the museum received are the annual dues from members, profits from their cookbook and history DVD sales and donations that are received by visitors to the museum. Membership to the society is $15.00 for individuals or $20 for family memberships, annually. Members receive a monthly newsletter highlighting activities at the museum and Superior history.
Leading the way: The volunteers leading the way at the museum are President, Richard Hing, Vice President Tony Solis, Secretary Holly Mutchie, Treasurer Rita Wentzel and board members David Lira, Landis Deffenbaugh, Michael Hing, Pat Brown, Leslie Martin and Jim Rutledge.
The museum is open Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from noon to 3 p.m.
The “In Your Biz” column is sponsored weekly by the Superior Chamber of Commerce in an effort to further promote their business members. To learn more about the Superior Chamber of Commerce you can visit their website www.superiorarizonachamber.org or call them at 520-689-0200. The Chamber meets the third Wednesday of every month at their building 165 Main St. in Superior, Arizona.
Mila Besich is a resident of Superior with two children. She volunteers for many local organizations. She is an experienced fundraiser and event planner for Copper Corridor Economic Development Coalition. She covers some of the area town councils and schools.
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