Rotchev House Museum Exhibit at Fort Ross, California
FAIN: BR-50044-08
Fort Ross Interpretive Association (Jenner, CA 95450)
Lyn Kalani (Project Director: January 2008 to December 2010)
Production of exhibits, displays, a walking tour, a museum panel, and a website tour for the Rotchev House Museum, home of the last manager of the Russian-America Company in California.
The Rotchev House Museum exhibits will enhance understanding and appreciation of one of the oldest remnants of early European contact in Colonial California, the significant but little known legacy of the Russian-American Company settlement at Fort Ross 1812 - 1841. Exhibits will be created in the only surviving Russian-built structure in the continental United States. Research findings have enlightened us about the unrecognized Russian contributions to 19th century California history: they were the first to scientifically record the natural and cultural environment; introduce important technological innovations; and pursue harmonious relationships with the Native population. The Rotchev House exhibit will bring this information alive for the first time, and enlarge understanding about this era of history for a wide audience. The now empty rooms will be brought to life with displays and objects depicting the life of the last manager of Fort Ross and his wife and children.