Why Herzstein Memorial Museum?
Al Herzstein while living in Houston, T.X. was already a notable philanthropist. He was traveling to Denver, C.O. for vacation and happened to buy a copy of “The Union County Leader” while in Clayton. One of the articles was about the plight of the Clayton History Museum, the two individuals who were building a museum in “the old Methodist Church” with the Union County Historical Society both worked as reporters at the newspaper.
Al was moved by the article, and scheduled a visit to see the Clayton History Museum on his return trip. He was impressed with the vision they held and felt this would be a tasteful way to honor his father Morris, a man who did so much for Clayton in its early days. He bought a roof for the museum, helped with repairs, and eventually donated all the items that are in the Herzstein room.
He had two stipulations: One, we always bear his surname, two, we remain a free museum so that everyone feels welcome to visit Herzstein Memorial Museum, and that is how we became who we are back in 1987.
We can not wait for you to visit Herzstein Memorial Museum, to see the Herzstein room and all of the other fun exhibits that await you!
Herzstein Memorial Museum is home to an eclectic collection of items, memories and stories. Browse at your own pace or accept an offered tour at the door.
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In addition to the treasures in the Herzstein Room, we also lay claim to the largest collection of Works Progress Administration (W.P.A.) items in the state of New Mexico.
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Have you seen the Herzstein, lately?