CULLMAN, Ala. – In a strategic move to better integrate local history with the community’s vibrant festivals and activities, Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism (CPRST) has assumed responsibility for the Cullman County Museum. The transition, spearheaded by the Cullman City Council and Mayor Woody Jacobs, marks a new chapter in the museum’s long-standing role as a guardian of local history.
CPRST Executive Director Nathan Anderson explained that the museum has always been a City department. The recent transfer to the Parks Board was not a purchase or acquisition but a strategic decision to align the museum more closely with the city’s broader cultural and recreational offerings.
“This transition allows us to continue the outstanding work that has already been accomplished, while exploring new opportunities to integrate the museum into the broader community activities and festivals we oversee,” Anderson explained.
The importance of preserving history and telling the community’s story cannot be overstated, Anderson said. The area is rich in both historic and modern attractions, shaped by visionary individuals, businesses and organizations that have contributed to the community’s identity. Anderson said he is particularly excited about the collaboration between CPRST and the museum’s dedicated staff, including Julie Burks, Madelyne Grimmett and Georgia Shockley. Together, the two groups plan to build on the museum’s legacy while deepening its involvement in the city’s popular downtown festivals.
As the museum comes under the CPRST umbrella, residents can expect to see it play a more dynamic role in the community. During events like the Alabama Strawberry Festival, Oktoberfest and Christkindlmarkt, the museum will feature rotating exhibits that highlight local traditions and the history behind these beloved celebrations.
Anderson said the museum will also delve into the area’s German roots, offering visitors a deeper understanding of why Christkindlmarkt and Oktoberfest hold such significance. Additionally, CPRST plans to expand and enhance the museum’s walking tours, providing even more insight into the region’s rich heritage.
Addressing concerns that a parks department might not be the right fit for managing a museum, Anderson pointed out that parks agencies at the national, state and local levels have long been involved in managing historic and cultural arts museums, as well as participating in historic preservation.
Our involvement in the Cullman County Museum continues to ensure that the museum remains an accessible and vibrant part of our community and festivals, while preserving and sharing the history and culture that define us,” he said.
He added that the museum is far from being just a static repository of history; instead, it is a dynamic part of the community, and CPRST is committed to making it a vibrant hub that reflects the area’s past, present and future.
“We welcome everyone to be part of this ongoing story,” Anderson said.
Jacobs echoed Anderson’s enthusiasm for the transition.
“We are proud to bring Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism on board with the museum team,” Mayor Jacobs said. “Our museum has a strong foundation, established by many great leaders, team members and volunteers, like retired museum directors Elaine Fuller and Drew Green. The museum continues to play a crucial role in sharing our county’s history, and with the growth of our festivals, it has become even more integral to our cultural heritage. This is why we are providing the museum team with the resources that CPRST can offer.”
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