Marysville Historical Society cancels auction

The Marysville Historical Society is in a tough spot after canceling their 17th annual Spring Tea and Silent Auction.

Due to the coronavirus and the subsequent mandates from Washington state Gov. Jay Inslee the local nonprofit canceled the event.

The Tea and Auction is usually held in April and typically raises funds to keep the Marysville Historical Society's museum running for more than half the year.

Marysville Historical Society board member Dawn Robertson said the organization typically makes $9,000 to $10,000.

"Our heart is breaking that we're so stuck right now," said Robertson. "Obviously this is an uncontrollable circumstance."

The society's museum at 6805 Armar Road was completed in 2016 and the auction was used to raise funds for the construction of the building.

"Now it goes to pay for our mortgage and for all the expenses of running this space, such as keeping the lights on and keeping the phone bill paid," said Robertson.

The museum serves the community as a gathering place and helps preserve local history.

"What really excites us are the displays that were cycle in and out," said Robertson, which often include artifacts that have been donated by longtime community residents.

"We often have the opportunity to bring in students," to learn about the history of Marysville as well, added Robertson.

Different groups, including the Marysville Noon Rotary Club, use the building as a meeting space.

The Marysville Historical Society also holds their general meetings which the public is welcome to come to and learn about the museum.

"If we don't have enough income that will prevent this building from being open to the community as often," said Robertson.

She said that the organization does not want to be in a situation where they have to start "nickel and diming" people. Currently the museum is free to visit for the public.

The Marysville Historical Society didn't have the opportunity to reschedule their fundraiser as venue and support staff are often reserved a year in advance.

"It's like planning a wedding every year," said Robertson. "Half the expenses have already happened."

Robertson said the checks of those who already purchased tickets will not be cashed.

The society will be having a teleconference board meeting soon and Robertson said they hope to come up with some options for alternative fundraisers.

They still have all of the auction items that were donated to them. "We're going to still use them, we're just not sure how yet," said Robertson.

"We may have smaller events throughout the rest of the year," she said.

The other main fundraising method for the organization is renting out the museum.

"Those are few and far between right now," said Robertson.

With the Marysville Opera House offering similar options, the organization has had more competition recently as well. Robertson said the Opera House is also great, but she hopes to get the word out more that the museum is available for rental.

The organization also hopes to hold their June 8 potluck this year as well. It is still scheduled for 5:30 p.m. and typically the Marysville mayor and city council are invited.

"The community is invited, as well, and it is a potluck so they can show up with some food or not," said Robertson.

Robertson encouraged anyone who wants to donate to the historical society's museum to head to marysvillehistory.org for more in-formation.

She also said anyone with experience holding fundraisers or online auctions is also welcome to coordinate.

"We would really love if people reached out to my email," she said. Robertson's email is available at [email protected]. People can also call the museum at 360-659-3090.