SALISBURY, MD - Salisbury University has announced a new museum coming to downtown featuring local culture exhibits including items formerly on display at the Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art.
The Museum of Eastern Shore Culture is expected to open in the summer of 2024 on the first floor of the Powell Building at 218 W. Main St., according to the University. SU says a permanent display of the work of Lem and Steve Ward, namesakes of the former Ward museum, will be among the Museum’s exhibits.
The University says the Museum will not carry over the “Ward” title out of respect to the Ward Foundation and its continuing efforts. The Ward Foundation transferred its assets to Salisbury University in 2000. In March of 2023, SU announced it was ending its operating agreement with the Foundation following a lengthy closure of the Ward Museum on Schumaker Pond.
“The Ward Brothers and the art they created are an integral part of the heritage of the Eastern Shore,” said Raye-Valion Gillette, curator and folklife specialist of the Museum of Eastern Shore Culture and former curator of the Ward Museum.
SU says they are partnering with several area arts and cultural organizations to display select pieces in the new Museum’s collection. Partners include Delmarva Discovery Museum, Wicomico County Parks and Tourism, and the Somerset County Historical Society.
The museum will also host workshops with local artists, a speaker series focused on regional topics, featured artist talks, community and youth programs, and other programs in addition to the exhibits.
“As part of SU’s growing downtown presence, the museum will allow us to continue showcasing these priceless works of art while expanding into broader areas, including folklife, traditional arts and the rich regional heritage of the Eastern Shore and the Delmarva Peninsula,” said Dr. Laurie Couch, SU provost and senior vice president of academic affairs.
Salisbury University says admission to the museum will be free.