It’s been a challenging year for Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, which has been temporarily closed since March of this year while it addresses safety issues highlighted in a fire marshal report. Currently West Texas A&M University, the museum and the Panhandle-Plains Historical Society are discussing solutions to the closure. In the meantime, we checked in with Dr. Veronica Arias, the museum’s curator of anthropology and natural history. Arias graduated from Boston University before earning a master’s and doctoral degree in anthropology from the University of New Mexico. She’s been part of the PPHM team since 2014.

  1. How did you first become interested in history and archaeology? I have always been interested in history. It wasn’t until I was in college that I first visited some significant archaeological sites and was introduced formally to the science of archaeology. It was a different way of understanding the past, and I’ve been hooked ever since.

  2. What’s something most people may not realize or understand about your work? There are no two days that are alike. The work is so varied, and we field all sorts of questions and requests. Much of my work is behind the scenes and under the radar, but it’s important to our mission and the public we serve.

  3. Tell us about one of your favorite artifacts at PPHM. There are so many incredible objects here. One that still takes my breath away is a fully beaded Comanche cradleboard from the late 19th century. It is so intricately beaded and finely crafted that it is impossible not to think about the time and care it must have taken to make.

  4. This is a difficult moment for the museum. What does your work look like right now? Our work continues. Researchers still need access to artifacts and data, and the collections still require attention. Right now we are in the long process of digitizing our collection so our artifacts remain visible even if patrons can’t see it in person. We greatly miss the help and support from our dedicated volunteers, donors and visitors.

  5. What is the best way for people to support PPHM at this time? We encourage you to stay engaged in all the things PPHM still has to offer. While our doors may be closed, your support keeps us moving forward. Renew your membership, make a gift or join us at community programs to help preserve the stories of the Panhandle-Plains.

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