Treasures from the Pacific at the Salem Athenaeum

The annual winter lecture partnership with the Salem Athenaeum and Historic Salem, Inc. will be taking place on Jan. 29 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Salem Athenaeum. 

Each year, the topic highlights a particular aspect of Salem’s rich history. This year, Historic New England will be loaning objects from the Phillips House Museum’s Oceanic and Polynesian collections for a small exhibition. 

Susan Leavitt, a graduate student with Harvard University's Museum Studies program, will discuss these treasures and others found in the collections as well as share the stories and histories of Pacific islanders. A reception is planned for attendees as well. 

The exhibition will remain open at the Salem Athenaeum during regular hours for the month of February. Historic New England will be hosting a special behind the scenes tour focusing on their Oceanic collections on June 28-29, 2014. Many items are also on view during regular tours on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Advance tickets are strongly suggested and can be purchased at www.salemathenaeum.net. The cost is $10.00 for members of Historic New England, Historic Salem, Inc., and Salem Athenaeum members and $15 nonmembers. This lecture is free for students with valid identification. Please call 978-744-2540 for more information. 

The Salem Athenaeum is located at 337 Essex St.