The Dorcheat Historical Museum has long been one of Minden’s most treasured gems. Recently, it became even more so.
During the museum’s annual fundraiser gala, Director Jessica Gorman surprised guests by unveiling a beautiful new expansion to the facility. The area isn’t yet filled with exhibits, but it already offers new possibilities, a larger event space, improved restrooms, a dedicated research area, and room for future displays. It’s a major step forward in our collective effort to preserve and showcase the rich history of Webster Parish.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of attending many events at the museum, from the unforgettable Night at the Museum speaker series to other fundraisers and exhibits that bring our community’s stories to life. These events do more than entertain; hey remind us where we’ve come from and inspire us to carry those stories forward.
This week’s gala was no different. The signature cake auction (with help from Richard “Dr. Feelgood” Campbell, Morris Busby, and Danny Francis) filled the room with laughter and generosity. Silent and live auction items gave everyone a chance to participate, and one lucky winner took home a $1,000 cash prize. Most importantly, the event raised over $21,000 for the museum’s continued operation.
For a nonprofit organization like Dorcheat Museum, every dollar matters. Their work depends on the support of individuals, families, and businesses who value the power of local history. Without it, our stories fade. With it, our legacy is preserved and shared with future generations.
We often talk about economic development, quality of life, and attracting people to live in our region. Cultural institutions like the Dorcheat Museum play a vital role in all of that. They give us identity. They give us pride. They connect us to something bigger than ourselves.
If you’ve never visited, make plans to do so. If you’ve visited before, go again and bring someone with you. If you’re able to contribute, either financially or with your time, I encourage you to do so. These are the kinds of places that make a town like Minden not just a spot on the map, but a true home.
Congratulations to Jessica Gorman and the entire museum team on this exciting new chapter. Your quiet work often goes unnoticed, but its impact will be felt for years to come.
Let’s all do our part to help them continue the mission.
David Specht is president of Specht Newspapers, Inc.