By Kat Palma | Marketing and communications for Superstition Lost Dutchman Museum
When the Superstition Mountain Historical Society acquired the land where it now sits in 2003, it was growth. Growth from the small “museum” at Goldfield Ghost Town, coming into its own. In 2004 when Apacheland, the gallows and the Memorial Chapel were donated to the museum following the devastating fire, it was growth. With every new piece and exhibit, we grow. Our museum — nay, your museum, is constantly growing.
The Superstition Mountain Historical Society was founded in 1980 by “Dutch hunters” and the legend of the Lost Dutchman has been a part of our legacy since the beginning. The Historical Society continuously embraces, supports and spearheads the essential development of the museum.
Decisions were made to confirm our history with a solid and representative branding — to include demonstration of the importance of passing the Jacob Waltz legend on to a new generation. The Lost Dutchman in our blood, the Historical Society decided to incorporate the legend into the official name: The Superstition Mountain Lost Dutchman Museum. With that, one evocative, recognizable brand, demonstrating our mission to “collect and preserve the history, legends and lore of Arizona’s Superstition Mountain.” We find from researchers and visitors alike that we are the source of information about Jacob Waltz and the Superstition Mountains.
The Superstition Mountain Lost Dutchman Museum, 4087 E. Apache Trail (State Route 88), has more exciting changes coming as we continue to evolve.
A new website (www.smldm.org) will be active in June, new exhibits and hands-on learning will be introduced and exciting family-friendly events are on the season schedule. We’ve had sound and Wi-Fi infrastructure upgrades, are installing multimedia elements and are planning a gift shop remodel. All the while, we remain open to the community, offering an air-conditioned summer option for everyone.
Our goal is to reach prospectors of all ages, to help them #DiscoverDesertRiches at the Superstition Mountain Lost Dutchman Museum.
