Monett Museum features bronze statues, celebrates literature

By Jessica Breger Special to the Monett Monthly

The Monett Historical Society and Museum is mixing art and literature with a recent display in its front lobby as it brings stories to life with bronze sculptures. 

One display in the entrance of the museum has recently been housing a collection of bronze figurines borrowed from a local resident.  

While the collection is local, the figurines have been collected from various parts of the country.

The collection consists mostly of tabletop or cabinet bronzes and protocol from the romantic era of the 1870s through 1930s, crafted by American Women artists. 

While not all of the figurines were not originally created to directly reflect any particular work of literature, the collection displayed is set up with stories in mind. 

Featuring such figures as a reflecting pond and Satyr or Faun, the collection was paired with quotes from the stories of the Chronicles of Narnia.

Local collections are often displayed at the museum featuring such eclectic items to not only display what local residents have shown interest in, but also to connect local residents to the wider world of art and history. 

This display celebrates both American art and British literature, bringing the stories of C. S. Lewis to life with bronze images reflecting Missouri. 

The museum is also gearing up to change displays for the summer season when it will be celebrating the nation’s 250th anniversary with new patriotic displays. 

While these displays have not yet been assembled, staff encourage residents to make the Monett Historical Society and Museum a stop in their summer vacation plans to help explore American history and celebrate the nation’s birth.

The Museum is open five days a week, Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Admission is free.