Cheer Up, the Worst Is Yet to Come

Struggles and Triumphs – The Journey to Renewal

When an EF1 tornado tore through downtown Bridgeport in 2010, the Barnum Museum suffered catastrophic damage. In an instant, one of Connecticut’s most treasured landmarks faced an uncertain future. What followed was not a matter of days or months, but a years-long journey marked by difficult decisions, unexpected setbacks, and an unwavering commitment to preservation.

Join Barnum Museum Executive Director Kathleen Maher for a candid account of the challenges, frustrations, and hard-won victories that have shaped the Museum’s recovery and transformation. From navigating FEMA and insurance claims to confronting structural emergencies and rebuilding public confidence, this is the remarkable story of what it takes to save a historic institution when the unexpected happens—and the determination required to persevere.

Part history, part leadership lesson, and part survival story, this engaging presentation offers an unfiltered look at the long road back and the resilience, creativity, and vision needed to move forward. Through personal reflections and lessons learned, Maher will share how adversity became an opportunity to reimagine the Museum for the twenty-first century and why historic places endure when communities refuse to give up on them.

Following the presentation, guests are invited to step inside the historic Barnum Museum to view active restoration work and discover how this National Historic Landmark is being transformed for a new generation of visitors.

Tickets: $25 Members / $40 Non-Member

Advance registration required.