The month of May was an extremely busy time for the staff of McFarland. Janna Hermanson completed work on the conservation of the Wells Fargo coffeehouse sign and with the help of the Americorps crew it is back in place. Marge Antolik began reinstalling the Fairweather Inn Ladies Parlor exhibit and with the help of the Preservation crew, Americorps and John Ellingsen, the piano from the Opera House was also installed there on May 11. Hanging lanterns and barrel end tables were returned to the Brewery for the start of their season. Work continues on the Gilbert House clean-up and furniture removal. On May 16, the Summer Intern, Andrew Miller began work with the Curatorial Staff. Andrew jumped right in to work at the Gilbert House and with the backlog of objects at McFarland. He is pictured below as our “Most Interesting Object of the Month”, though hopefully he will stay just a little longer. The temporary exhibit in the Wells Fargo Office has been installed and after the completion of the Nevada City Boots and Shoes’ new floor, the unpacking and return of objects will begin. Conservator John Kjelland reported the near completion of the Gypsy and estimates her return to Virginia City by this July. John will also be returning to Virginia City on June 1 to complete work on the Brewery barrel stored in McFarland, so it can be returned to the aging room. He will also be assisting Janna in the beginning stages of the mold abatement of the Gilbert House.

On an uncuratorial note, Marge, who had knee surgery May 19, is doing well, but will most likely be laid up through the first week of June. And also a big “Thank You” goes to the Americorps Crew for all their help throughout May.