The Lopez Island Historical Museum is undergoing some changes this summer to improve the way the public discovers island history.

Studio Meng Strazzara, an architecture firm from Seattle, is volunteering its services to enrich the museum.

One of the owners, Eric Meng, is a “part-timer” travelling between his life and home on Lopez Island and his home and business in downtown Seattle. With a deep love and admiration for the island, Meng and his architectural firm, including Caitlin Struble, project manager, are enthusiastic about the new opportunities this summer’s improvements will provide.

The 1,200 square foot museum in the center of Lopez Village is home to an ever-growing collection of artifacts, boats, clothing, farm equipment and photographs.

As you approach the museum, you are greeted by the Sally J, a gillnetter displayed proudly on the lawn that embodies the notion of island life. Sally J will be an active component in the museum’s upcoming improvements as she will gain some protection from the elements and additional maritime exhibit space.

“Boatbuilders tell us that if you leave a boat out in the rain, it will melt!” museum director Mark Thompson-Klein says.

A 600+ square foot addition will consist of an extension to the existing exhibit space, and a collections work area with storage and two offices. This will free space in the current facility for a public research area that visitors can use to search for their own family history on the island. Additional exterior exhibition space for large farm equipment will also be included in the addition.

Thompson-Klein is thrilled about the upcoming project. His favorite part about working with LIHS is connecting with island settler descendents.

“Quite a few old family members still live on the island and others make frequent pilgrimages.”

With a 20-year background in museum work, the Lopez Museum is Thompson-Klein’s passion. His goal for LIHS is to provide more visibility and access to the museum for Lopezians and tourists alike. “We have a unique history, and going back to the mid-1800s we find exciting personal histories documented in personal letters, contracts and photographs. It’s exciting to share folders full of family history to someone who’s looking for information on their background.”

Just a few months ago, a woman wrote from Greece looking for information on her family. Sure enough, one of her ancestors was a professional photographer on Lopez Island and many of the museum’s best historical photos were his.

With new exhibits every year, the Lopez Island Historical Museum is a fantastic resource. With all the new improvements to the museum, there will be even more to see and explore.

For more information, visit the museum Web site at www.lopezmuseum.org

Studio Meng Strazzara is located adjacent to the historic Pike Place Market in downtown Seattle. Visit www.studioms.com