Recently, the Wright Museum in Wolfeboro welcomed the Lakes Region Newcomers Club (LRNC) for a private tour, an occasion that excited Executive Director Mike Culver.
“It’s always great to be able to walk around with a group and customize their experience of our collection,” he said. “I really enjoyed meeting and learning more about the Lakes Region Newcomers Club, too.”
Susan Belanger, LRNC organizer, said the group enjoyed the experience just as much.
“This tour with Mike Culver was one of the most skillfully delivered tours I have ever taken,” she said. “His knowledge of the WWII historical period, his ability to incorporate member questions into his dialogue and his passion and deep respect for the sacrifices so many made to protect democracy is applaudable.”
LRNC member Liz Gabel said she especially enjoyed Culver’s observations on the aesthetic and historical import of the WWII photographs in “Memories of WWII,” the season’s final exhibit.
“As an experienced photographer, he offered some incredible insights,” she said. “Although we do not live in Wolfeboro, we have decided to become museum members to take advantage of future presentations, too.”
As for the nature of LRNC, Belanger described it as “a fun, year-round social organization composed of multi-age newcomers as well as long-time seasonal and year-round residents.”
“The club’s purpose is to offer many types of opportunities to meet new friends with common interests,” she said. “Our active group helps members discover the wide variety of cultural, social and recreational resources available throughout the Lakes Region and New England.”
According to Belanger, the visit to The Wright represents just a small sampling of the kinds of events attended by LRNC members.
“Newcomers enjoy theater, music and concert events, art venues, trips to both local and Boston sporting events, scenic and nature attractions, cruises on the lake, game nights and so much more,” she said. “Many events also include lunch or dinner together.”
In speaking about group tours in general, Culver said The Wright, while closed to the public for the season, is available for custom tours throughout the winter.
“Whether it’s groups like the Newcomers or students, we are always available for custom experiences,” he said. “We also have plenty of space available, so all visitors can feel comfortable given COVID-19 restrictions.”
The region’s leading resource for educators and learners of all ages on World War II, The Wright features more than 14,000 items in its collection that are representative of both the homefront and battlefield.
To learn more about LRNC, visit lrnc-nh.com.
