SEE Joins Manchester Museums Partnership
The Currier Museum of Art, the SEE Science Center, Manchester Historic Association’s Millyard Museum, and Aviation Museum of N.H. have joined forces in a shared promotional partnership.
The effort includes a new “portal” website at manchestermuseumsnh.org with information and links to each of the four institutions, plus printed marketing materials, a new logo for the shared effort, and promotional items to help visitors and long-time residents explore the area’s cultural attractions.
Greater Manchester is a vibrant center for business and industry due in part to the area’s quality of life, said Shana Hawrylchak, executive director of the SEE Science Center, one of the four participating organizations.
“One reason for that is the area’s cultural institutions, which offer programs and exhibits year round that bring people together, provide families opportunities for shared experiences, and help residents get the most out of living in southern New Hampshire,” Hawrylchak said.
The ‘Manchester Museums’ partnership was launched at a press conference on Tuesday, Jan. 21 at the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce.
“Cultural institutions are the heartbeat of a city’s economy, weaving creativity and heritage into the fabric of daily life, driving tourism, innovation, and community growth,” said Heather McGrail, President and CEO, Greater Manchester Chamber, which helped facilitate the joint promotional effort.
“Collaborations such as Manchester Museums certainly magnify the impact, fostering a richer and more dynamic ecosystem that enhances the quality of life in the region. It is wonderful to see the phenomenal museums of Manchester uniting forces and supporting each other,” McGrail said.
The effort is funded by shared contributions from each of the four institutions. Also contributing to the effort was Cookson Communications of Manchester, N.H.
The four institutions are launching the campaign in advance of a special distinction for the city. In November, 2025, Manchester will host the annual convention of the New England Museum Association, the region’s largest organization of museum professionals and related businesses. “Hosting NEMA’s annual convention is a real honor for the city, and we wanted to join together to put our best foot forward for this major upcoming event,” said Jeff Barraclough, executive director of the Manchester Historic Association. NEMA bord member Chuck Clark spoke at the launch.
City officials applauded the effort to highlight Manchester’s cultural attractions.
“Our cultural institutions represent Manchester’s heart and soul. We’re so fortunate to have several gems where art, vision and history are on display,” said Jay Ruais, Mayor, City of Manchester. “A trip to a museum provides fun and enlightenment as well as a boost to our regional economy and quality of life. I am delighted by the launch of the ‘Manchester Museums,’ an initiative that will help highlight the diversity of cultural offerings right here in the state’s largest city,” Ruais said.