Stan Klassen Research Center Named

It has almost been a year since Stan Klassen passed away on March 11, 2011.  He was a board member and friend of the Jackson Hole Historical Society and Museum, and his family requested that a memorial fund be created in his memory. The Board of Directors has unanimously given approval to use the memorial funds to move the research center presently located at 105 Mercill to the new museum building at 225 North Cache. The Research Center will be named in Stan’s honor.

Stan joined the board of directors of the JHHSM in January 2009, and immediately became very involved.  He was willing to help in whatever role he was needed. Stan was very supportive of programs, and assisted with and attended as many as he could. It was his belief that history is an important part of our community, and that the museum should continue recording oral histories. Stan was interested in history, particularly the rich history of Jackson Hole, and felt privileged to have the good fortune of knowing a lot of old-timers.

Donations to the Stan Klassen Memorial at the JHHSM are still welcome to help fund this project. Remodeling the research room at the Cache Street building will make it well-lit, comfortable, and computerized. Researchers and visitors will have access to the W.C. “Slim” Lawrence Library with almost 4,000 volumes, vertical files, microfilm, oral histories, digitized photograph archives, and the video and dvd collection. The extensive project is expected to be completed by the Memorial Day weekend at the end of May.  “The Stan Klassen Research Center will be a wonderful asset to our community and visitors alike.  We believe that this is a fitting tribute to Stan who was all about helping others,” said Lokey Lytjen, Executive Director. A dedication ceremony will be planned.

Contact: Liz Jacobson, 307-733-9605, ext. 202