Flooding Closes Rhode Island Museum

Flooding Closes Rhode Island Museum

A museum in Rhode Island has announced a temporary closure - due to flooding. 

On Friday, the Museum of Work & Culture in Woonsocket said that on January 15, it experienced a "water incident" when a sprinkler in the classroom exhibit triggered unexpectedly. 

"The water infiltration to the floors, ceiling, and walls caused significant damage to the building. The museum will, therefore, be closed for repairs and reconstruction for several weeks," said the museum. "Fortunately, none of the collection or interactive exhibits were affected."

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According to the museum, the City of Woonsocket, which owns the building, and the Rhode Island Historical Society (RIHS), which operates the museum, are working collaboratively to ensure the renovation work is performed promptly so the Museum may reopen as soon as possible.  

 

Interim Arrangements

The RIHS has taken proactive steps to continue with some of the Museum’s activities in the meantime. 

Anne Conway, Director of the Museum of Work & Culture, announced that upcoming programs, such as the Valley Talk series, will now take place on Zoom. 

While some school field trips are being rescheduled, the RIHS is offering an option where museum educators can visit classrooms in person with the “Museum on the Road” program, featuring hands-on activities and presentations. 

More information about these programs and offerings can be found at www.rihs.org.

Updates regarding the Museum’s closure and eventual reopening will be posted on the Museum of Work and Culture’s Facebook page and all RIHS social media platforms.