NORWICH – Alan Estus, formerly a member of the Chenango County Historical Society (CCHS) board of directors, said while he never expected to be appointed director of the society, the four weeks since he accepted the position have been “a true pleasure and a lot of fun.”
Estus, who also co-chaired the buildings and grounds committee for a time, said his prior experience with the Historical Society was of great benefit in his first month as director.
“I’m familiar with the organization through my previous association with the board, so the learning curve has been short,” said Estus, who was a member of the board for approximately three years. “I’m very familiar with all of the activities and projects that are currently underway.”
Those projects will include an updated, more modern, research library, which will be housed at 43 Rexford St., next door to the CCHS Museum, and the restoration of the 1854 schoolhouse located behind the museum.
The new research library, which will also house the county historian, will make documents “more readily available” to the public, according to Estus, who added that, thanks to a significant donation, the organization’s computer systems have been successfully upgraded.
“We’re in excellent shape from a computer system and electronic data standpoint,” stated Estus.
“This is really helpful as far as research goes and information will be much more organized now.”
According to Linda Green, president of the CCHS board of directors, Estus’ focus and commitment to moving forward have been vital during this “very intense time at the museum.”
“Alan brings a great deal to the directorship,” said Green, who added that “years as an executive director of a non-profit working with a board of directors, marketing experience, a background in structural design and building and a wonderful passion for preserving history” made Estus a perfect candidate for the position.
“Alan has a wonderful rapport and respect for the board of directors and delights in the vision for the future as well as the past,” commented Green. “We are very encouraged in moving forward that he is definitely the right choice.”
The Chenango County Historical Society Museum is located at 45 Rexford St. and is open to the public 1 to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 1 to 4 p.m. on Sundays between the months of April and December. For more information call 334-9227 or visit chenango.history.museum.