900 Doherty Ave. Mission, TX 78572
Mission Historical Museum Director
Cynthia Lopez
(956)580-8646
clopez@missiontexas.us
Work Experience
Cynthia has received a B.A. in Anthropology, a M.A. in Museum Science and a M.S. in Forensic Science from Texas Tech University.
She has held positions directly related to both her areas of study, such as the Research Coordinator for the Institute for Forensic Science where she headed the development of the research component as it pertains to the mission of the Institute for Forensic Science. As a Forensic Scientist, Cynthia is trained to provide impartial scientific evidence for use in courts of law to support the prosecution or defense in criminal and civil investigations. She has worked closely with law enforcement personnel overseeing law enforcement training.
As the Objects Conservator, within the Anthropology Division of The Museum of Texas Tech University and the Lubbock Lake Landmark Archaeological Site, Cynthia oversaw all conservation projects held within the division; advised staff; and created custom housing/packaging for sensitive objects. The position revolved around the conservation projects occurring within a laboratory/field setting with responsibilities ranging from cleaning artifacts to stabilizing bone material recovered from field generated collections and all collections acquired through donations. Also during this time, she designed and implemented a class for the Comite` International pour la Documentation (CIDOC), a unit of the International Council of Museums (ICOM). The class is a professional development class for an international audience of museum professionals.
Previously, Cynthia served as the Curator/Archivist for the Mission Historical Museum where she supervised staff and set up internship opportunities with students for the University of Texas Pan-American. As Curator, Cynthia set up exhibits, planned events, oversaw accessions, maintained the care of collections, and developed training workshops for volunteers. Her main areas of expertise are conservation and care of collections, along with the development of research. She developed labs that are supplemental to graduate level collections management courses. Cynthia has been a frequent presenter and organizer of sessions at state, regional, and national conferences that focus on museum collections conservation and has assisted with workshops that teach museum professionals how barcoding technology can improve performance of collections management skills. As an Anthropologist, Cynthia is a devoted social scientist providing insight into various cultural communities throughout history and in present times. Her expertise is cultural, biological and physical anthropology and archaeology, often integrating the perspectives of these areas through the guidance of student research, teaching and her professional life.
Overview
The Mission Historical Museum is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization, which first opened its doors in 2002, and serves the community of Mission and visitors to the area. The Museum maintains both long-term and temporary exhibits, and presents a variety of events and programs for all ages.
The Museum is housed in two historic buildings in downtown Mission. The Shary Building, which carries a Texas historical marker, was built by Valley pioneer John H. Shary in 1939, and housed his business offices until purchased by the City of Mission in 1960. The structure was transformed into a museum after serving as Mission’s City Hall for many years. The Post Office building was built in 1940. It houses an original WPA mural, the only one still existing in the Valley.
Mission Statement
The Mission Historical Museum tells the story of Mission and western Hidalgo County by collecting and preserving objects and records of historical significance to the area, and by providing related exhibitions, programs, and research opportunities for area residents and visitors.
Vision Statement
Preserving the past to enlighten the future.
Mission Historical Museum Board of Directors
Chairman – Luis Canales
Vice Chair – Manuel Hinojosa
Secretary – Elizabeth Garza
Treasurer – Hiram Burguete
Board Member – Diana Alcocer
Board Member – Amancio Chapa, Jr.
Board Member – Candi Martinez
Member at Large – Dorothy Prukop
Parliamentarian – Maria Picazo
Museum Director – Cynthia Lopez
The MHM board of directors is a body of elected or appointed members who jointly oversee the activities of the organization, and act on behalf of the Museum’s membership.
Contact Us
Tel. (956)580-8646
Office Hours:
Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Museum Hours:
Tuesday – Friday, 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M.
Every 2nd Saturday of the month 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Sunday: Closed
Mission Historical Museum Staff
Museum Director
Cynthia Lopez
Operations Manager
Maria Picazo
Archivist/Curator
Vernon Weckbacher
Museum Assistant
Charlotte Underwood
Museum Assistant
Alejandra Moreno
Museum Clerk
Daniela Garcia
Museum Clerk
Graciela Salazar
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