About Russell Museum
The Russell Centennial Trust Board was established to mark the 1940 Centennial of the Treaty of Waitangi. On donated land the Trust raised funds and erected a building to house a public library, town board office, women’s rest room and Plunket room and later a Museum.
Today with changing needs the building houses the Russell Museum, a community library and a St John's opportunity shop. The organisation is community minded.
The Russell Museum aims to reflect the history of the town and to support historic preservation. The museum’s collection is important in promoting New Zealand culture because Russell – then named Kororareka – lay at the threshold of the earliest connection of the two worlds of Maori and Pakeha. The collection dates from this time onwards.
In 2002 it was decided that the Museum required a total facelift to keep pace with other tourist outlets and was in danger of being left behind in the fight for the tourist dollar. The Museum was going through a static period. The interior was in need of a coat of paint and a new lighting system. The display cases were 40 years old. Funds were required to bring about the changes. A museum consultant was brought on board. Plans were drawn up, ongoing applications for funding were made.
Stage 1 was an area dedicated to Maori displays and artefacts and to create a small souvenir shop within the museum.
Stage 2 was the European influence on the town and an upgrade to the “Endeavour” wing.
Stage 3 in the Marie King Gallery, where we already have a small theatre to view our historic video, this gallery is now an area for changing exhibitions and to have on permanent display a computerised photo collection.
Also, while these alterations were happening, out of print Russell history books were being revised and reprinted for distribution. A graphic artist was commissioned to design our branding, new signage and brochures were created.
Work has now started on the grounds. A new shelter has been built for the whaleboat. Landscaping is underway, native trees and plants are being planted and a feature in the grounds will be a punga fence and seating.