Letter: Berkshire Scenic Railway Exhibit Worth Saving
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To the Editor:
The Scenic Railway's retirement of its Berkshires History museum-car will surely disappoint the donors who contributed in excess of $110,000 in cash and labor to create it. How sad to read on the Internet, “This exhibit is now closed" — and not just sad for the lost investment.
This was the only educational facility in existence dedicated to covering the entire county’s beginnings, from exploration and first settlement in the 1700s through the cultural ascendancy of Tanglewood and Jacob’s Pillow today.
It’s true the displays emphasized South County, which is where settlement began and the Gilded Age flourished. The collection of interior photographs of the "Berkshire cottages" was unmatched but so was the depiction of the whole region's literary riches.
It’s also true no one came forward to maintain the museum car and its contents after tourist train service was halted and the Scenic Railway's revenue stream disappeared.
Tammy Daniels’ story mentions long-range plans or a museum at the former Sons of Italy site. If any of the unique displays survive the ravages of time — especially the compelling record of our region’s great role in literary and social life of America — perhaps they could find a home there. Berkshires schoolchildren deserve such a resource that otherwise seems headed for the recycle bin.
William C Sexton
Sarasota,Fla., & Pittsfield
Former board member, BSRM
Tags: historical exhibit, scenic rail,
