A Museum's Fight for Its Future

A recent decision has left many scratching their heads. The Panhandle Plains Historical Society and Museum (PPHS) is being asked to leave its home on the West Texas A&M University (WTAMU) campus. This move has sparked concern among those who value history and education. The museum holds a treasure trove of artifacts, including Charley C, the first live mascot of WTAMU. Charley was a buffalo who had a habit of roaming the streets of Canyon. After his untimely death, he was stuffed and given to the museum. The thought of him ending up in a dump is unsettling to many. The museum's origins are rooted in community effort. In the 1920s, a brick drive was launched, and 250, 000 bricks were collected to build the museum. The museum's collection grew significantly when it was given records from the 3-million acre XIT ranch. These records, weighing 3, 000 pounds, were a significant addition to the museum's holdings. The museum's educational value is undeniable. It serves as a repository of knowledge and cultural heritage, offering primary sources in their original format. It supports curriculum at many levels and provides active, informal learning opportunities. The museum's role in the community is vital, and its potential move raises questions about its future.WTAMU's stance is that the museum does not contribute to student education. However, the museum's collections are available for the student body, faculty, and researchers. The idea that the museum's $128. 79 per student cost is a burden seems misplaced, especially when considering the educational benefits it provides. The proposed move to Amarillo is not ideal. The city's traffic and safety concerns make it a less welcoming destination for visitors, especially groups of young children. The museum's current location in Canyon is safer and more accessible. The future of the museum is uncertain. The decision to move it raises questions about the university's commitment to preserving and displaying the collection for the benefit of the Panhandle and the State of Texas. The museum's future depends on the university's willingness to work with interested parties to find a solution. The museum's supporters hope that the student body and faculty will speak up about this issue. Their voices could make a difference in the museum's future. The museum's fate hangs in the balance, and the community's support is crucial.