The Small Fish: Life and Leisure on Black Lake
Open as of June 29th, 2023!
"The Small Fish: Life and Leisure on Black Lake" exhibit at the Morristown Gateway Museum serves as a companion piece to our acclaimed 2018 exhibit, "The Big Fish: Making a Living from the River." We explored the impact of commercial sturgeon fishing and muskellunge guiding on the local lifestyle and economy of the St. Lawrence River in our earlier exhibit. Now, with "The Small Fish," we delve into the rich history of Black Lake.
When we began our research, we realized that published secondary sources on the lake's history were scarce and outdated. However, we were determined to fill this void by adopting a social history approach. Our research involved analyzing census records, fishing logs, newspaper articles, and collecting captivating oral histories, intriguing "fish stories," captivating images, and ephemera like brochures, postcards, and guides.
We recognized the exhibit as a prime opportunity to expand our collection with artifacts specific to Black Lake, and aimed to acquire lures and fishing tackle associated with both open water and ice fishing, shedding light on local manufacturing practices. Additionally, we sought to showcase the craftsmanship of local boat builders and gather information on the boats used on the lake. Advertising signs from local businesses that thrived on tourism, as well as taxidermy specimens, also found their place in this unique exhibit.
Thanks to the generous support of our funding efforts, we were able to bring "The Small Fish" to life. The exhibit will be prominently displayed in our front gallery, offering visitors a window onto Main Street. As you explore "The Small Fish" and seamlessly transition to "The Big Fish," you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of the profound influence Morristown's waterways have had on our region's culture and livelihood.
We invite you to embark on a journey through time as you immerse yourself in the fascinating narrative of Black Lake. Discover the deep-rooted connection between this majestic body of water and the people who have relied on it for sustenance, leisure, and economic prosperity. Join us at the Morristown Gateway Museum and prepare to be inspired by the enduring legacy of Black Lake.
"The Small Fish: Life and Leisure on Black Lake" exhibit at the Morristown Gateway Museum serves as a companion piece to our acclaimed 2018 exhibit, "The Big Fish: Making a Living from the River." We explored the impact of commercial sturgeon fishing and muskellunge guiding on the local lifestyle and economy of the St. Lawrence River in our earlier exhibit. Now, with "The Small Fish," we delve into the rich history of Black Lake.
When we began our research, we realized that published secondary sources on the lake's history were scarce and outdated. However, we were determined to fill this void by adopting a social history approach. Our research involved analyzing census records, fishing logs, newspaper articles, and collecting captivating oral histories, intriguing "fish stories," captivating images, and ephemera like brochures, postcards, and guides.
We recognized the exhibit as a prime opportunity to expand our collection with artifacts specific to Black Lake, and aimed to acquire lures and fishing tackle associated with both open water and ice fishing, shedding light on local manufacturing practices. Additionally, we sought to showcase the craftsmanship of local boat builders and gather information on the boats used on the lake. Advertising signs from local businesses that thrived on tourism, as well as taxidermy specimens, also found their place in this unique exhibit.
Thanks to the generous support of our funding efforts, we were able to bring "The Small Fish" to life. The exhibit will be prominently displayed in our front gallery, offering visitors a window onto Main Street. As you explore "The Small Fish" and seamlessly transition to "The Big Fish," you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of the profound influence Morristown's waterways have had on our region's culture and livelihood.
We invite you to embark on a journey through time as you immerse yourself in the fascinating narrative of Black Lake. Discover the deep-rooted connection between this majestic body of water and the people who have relied on it for sustenance, leisure, and economic prosperity. Join us at the Morristown Gateway Museum and prepare to be inspired by the enduring legacy of Black Lake.
