Eketāhuna Museum Revitalizes Scandinavian Heritage Ahead of Spring Reopening

The Eketāhuna Museum is set to unveil a revitalized display of its rich Scandinavian history this spring, thanks to the dedication of local volunteers. The museum, housed in a former 1800s school, is preparing for its reopening with new exhibits that highlight the town’s unique past as a hub for northern European settlers.

Volunteers have been meticulously sorting through historical artifacts, from an old pair of lace-up boots to a wooden coffee grinder. Ian Day, a volunteer at the museum, emphasized the significance of the collection, which includes essential tools from the early timber industry. “Eketāhuna’s first business was timber, long before it was farming,” Day explained, showcasing items like broad axes that are rarely seen today.

Uncovering the Town’s Scandinavian Legacy

Known as Mellemskov in the late 1800s, Eketāhuna was part of the heavily forested region called 70 Mile Bush. In the early 1870s, Scandinavian settlers arrived with the promise of land, tasked with clearing the bush for pastoral farming. Many were skilled woodsmen, prepared for the strenuous work ahead.

Among the museum’s current leaders are Chris Petersen and Bruce Laurence, who took charge after retiring to the area. They have witnessed the museum’s struggles, particularly during the pandemic, when it faced challenges due to lack of funding and volunteers. “From Covid, the museum hadn’t really reopened,” Laurence noted, reflecting on the difficulties in maintaining community engagement and operational funding.

Petersen shared a recent discovery that captured the essence of the era: a crudely made cot, likely an example of “Depression craft.” This item illustrates the resourcefulness of those living through tough times in the 1930s. “Most of rural New Zealand was just hanging on,” Day remarked. He highlighted the importance of these artifacts, stating that they provide insights into the human dynamics of early communities.

Challenges and Community Engagement

While the museum’s collection continues to grow, it faces numerous challenges. Day pointed out that funding remains a critical issue, compounded by low visitor numbers. Many small museums struggle to attract visitors, often celebrating a good week with just 30 visitors. The financial burden of preserving artifacts, such as the cost of $100 per box for acid-free storage, adds to the strain.

Despite these hurdles, new volunteers like Bridget Ferguson are stepping forward to support the museum’s mission. Since moving to Eketāhuna last year, Ferguson has embraced the role of preserving community stories. “It’s just constant learning and it’s a treasure hunt,” she said, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that drives the volunteer team.

As the Eketāhuna Museum prepares for its spring reopening, the efforts of these dedicated individuals are shining a light on a significant chapter of local history. With a renewed focus on community engagement and preservation, the museum aims to not only honor the town’s Scandinavian roots but also foster a deeper connection among residents and visitors alike.