Museum highlights Cooper engine, sports hall of fame and hands‑on exhibits for students

During the commissioners’ meeting, museum director Michael Sherfy walked attendees through the museum’s exhibit layout, noting areas dedicated to music and local performers, a house‑museum display, Native American artifacts found near the museum and the Cooper engine room that required structural accommodations when installed. Sherfy said the museum also houses the county sports hall of fame and that interactive items — like vintage telephones and yearbooks — consistently draw school groups.

Sherfy said the museum aims to rotate exhibits and bring displays into other community spaces to increase awareness. The testimony highlighted both large artifacts (a GMV combination engine compressor that required a 12– or 16‑inch concrete platform during installation) and smaller curated displays that appeal to casual visitors. Commissioners asked about artifact provenance and possible partnerships with local venues; museum staff said they are coordinating with local organizations to feature collections outside the museum building.