WINDSOR, Conn. — A hidden gem of history needs the community's help to hang on. The Vintage Radio and Communications Museum of Connecticut is getting hit with an unexpected expense.
The museum in Windsor, which showcases technology of the past, said they need support more now than ever to stay afloat.
The museum that pays homage to the obsolete is hoping the museum itself isn’t next.
“It’s going to put a major dent in our finances,” remarked John Ellsworth, the founder of the Vintage Radio and Communications Museum of Connecticut.
Since 1990, the Vintage Radio and Communications Museum of Connecticut has meant memories for the old and discovery for the young.
“They get fascinated by the older technology and a lot of them are surprised that it works as well as it does even today,” explained John Bayusik, a tour guide for the museum.
Now, 34 years and six locations later, the all-volunteer run non-profit is at risk. The water company MDC is beginning a mandatory sewer line replacement along Pierson Lane. Four properties, including the museum, will shoulder the expense, costing the museum $40,000.
“We were within three years of paying off our mortgage and being debt free and then this comes along,” said Ellsworth. “We were given like a two week notice that they were going to start the project and then on completion within two months payments would start,” he added.
The museum is a time warp walking you down memory lane and through bygone eras of radio, television and the computer age.
“We get a lot of people coming in from all parts of the world,” said volunteer Peter Knight.
During FOX61's visit, the station donated a vintage microphone flag from our early broadcast days in the 1990’s. It is now on display.
99% of what is seen inside the museum has been donated. The museum makes money through selling duplicate donations and old vacuum tubes for radio repair. But it’s just enough to cover their operating expenses, so those who would like to help them stick around can donate through their established GoFundMe.
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Matt Caron is a reporter at FOX61 News. He can be reached at mcaron@fox61.com. Follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram.
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