Basque Museum and Cultural Center (Boise)

The Basque Museum and Cultural Center was established in 1985 as a small museum in the historic Cyrus Jacobs-Uberuaga House at 607 Grove Street. Located in scenic Boise, Idaho, the Basque Museum & Cultural Center provides a look into the heritage of the Basque communities of Idaho and surrounding areas. Through hard work and the support of many individuals, businesses, foundations, and Basque communities, the Museum began to interpret the rich and colorful history of the Basques, their origins, and their new life in America.

The 611 Grove Street property became the primary facility for the Museum's operations in 1985. As artifact donations and exhibit development increased, so did the need for more space. Displays, classrooms, a library, a kitchen and a Museum Store became part of the renewed space. Over the years, thanks to many dedicated people, the Museum has grown tremendously in facilities and services and has become an Idaho cultural institution.

The mission of the Basque Museum and Cultural Center is to perpetuate, to preserve, and to promote awareness of Basque history and culture through education, research, collections and social activities for present and future generations. The country's first Basque preschool, Boiseko Ikastola, has been established as part of this mission.

Museum collections include oral history archives, a library, a records / tapes collection, manuscript materials, numerous artifacts and photographs. It is the home of significant resources for anyone interested in Basque history and culture.

As support and participation increase, the Museum will be able to offer additional educational programs, develop and enhance permanent exhibits, implement technological improvements, manage collections, and promote Basque social activities. With your help, the Basque Museum & Cultural Center will continue to grow and remain one of the United States' premier cultural institutions.

Source: www.basquemuseum.com