DAVENPORT, Iowa — The Putnam Museum in Davenport is nearing the finish line for its three-year renovation project, a transformation aimed at modernizing the historic institution and enhancing how visitors experience its vast collection of artifacts and exhibits.
“We have over 250,000 artifacts at the museum, and at any given time, only three to six percent are on display,” Cindy Diehl Yang, CEO of the Putnam Museum and Science Center said.
That’s set to change with the introduction of new spaces like "The Vault," a feature designed to showcase more artifacts than ever before.
“With this type of vault, we’ll be able to increase that immensely,” Yang said.
Other improvements include a new family center, an outdoor garden, and a revamped science center, giving guests more ways to explore and interact with the museum's offerings. Yang said that the renovations provide flexibility for visitors.
“It really allows you to choose your own adventure, whether it’s starting in the world culture section, exploring Quad City innovators, or diving into the science center," she said.
The revitalization project three years ago as part of the museum's $7 million Re-Imagined Capital Campaign. Thanks to contributions from local foundations, Destination Iowa funds, and private donations, $6 million has been raised so far. Yang said that by the end of the project, "There really is not much of the Putnam that won’t have been reimagined."
The museum plans to celebrate the completed renovations with a special event in early May. For now, the Putnam Museum is offering free admission through Jan. 5, inviting the community to experience its updates and exhibits.
For more details on current exhibits or museum hours, visit here.