Blog
Welcome to the archive of our Western Spirit Newsletter Blog! We’re thrilled to bring you updates, stories, and insights into the vibrant world of the Museum. As a cultural haven nestled in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, we take pride in preserving and celebrating the rich heritage, art, and history of the Old and New West. Join us on this virtual journey as we explore fascinating exhibitions, upcoming events, educational programs, and the incredible stories that make our Western Spirit Museum a true treasure trove of discovery and inspiration.
We Are Western Spirit! Meet Faith Boadt
As the new Western Spirit Membership Coordinator, members may be very familiar with Faith Boadt as she has reignited the membership program through its new rebuild. But her work ethic and role advancement has allowed her to engage with and assist many guests, artists...
Western Spirit AKA “The Cool Frontier” Presents Half-Off Admission for End of Summer Western Weekends
For the next three weekends of August, guests can explore the rich heritage and artistry of the American West at half the usual ticket price. This "Cool Frontier" sale runs on August 16-18, August 23-25, and August 30-September 1 (note: the museum is closed on Labor...
We Are Western Spirit! Meet Coleman Charters
When we heard that Coleman Charters, the newest member of our Maintenance team, not only loves all things Western Spirit but is also a talented artist, we had to learn more! We Are Western Spirit! is a new blog series highlighting individuals that work at Scottsdale's...
At Western Spirit, the Summer is the Season for Blue Star Museums!
Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West is excited to once again partner with the national Blue Star Museum initiative! Blue Star Museums is a collaboration among the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense, and...
Catching Up With New Western Spirit Board Member Lauren Ferrigni
WS: Would you tell us about your background, your interest in the American West and Western Art, and how you first became involved with Western Spirit? Ferrigni: I wasn’t born in Arizona but I’ve called this state home since a very young age, so I consider...
Five Questions for New Western Spirit Board Member Mike Casey
WS: Can you tell us something about your upbringing and interest in the American West? Casey: I grew up in South Dakota—not the West, exactly—but we lived between two Indian Reservations, the Lower Brule and Crow Creek. My family owned drugstores there and we...
Introducing Todd Bankofier: New Western Spirit C.E.O. and Executive Director
There's a new sheriff in town! Please join us in celebrating the appointment of highly experienced local business and community leader Todd Bankofier as Western Spirit's new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Executive Director. David Sherf, Interim Executive...
Meet New Western Spirit Board Member Carolyn Rock
WS: History is heritage for you. Can you tell us a bit about that? Rock: In 1840, my great-great-great grandfather William came by covered wagon from New Jersey to the Quad Cities—where I was born and grew up. William’s cousin, James Marshall, kept going all the way...
Western Spirit is a Blue Star Museum!
Blue Star Museums is a collaboration among the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense, and museums across America to offer free admission to the nation’s active duty military personnel including National Guard and Reserve and...
New Western Spirit Board Member Dan Corazzi
WS: Can you tell us a bit about your background? Corazzi: I began my professional career, in Eastern Pennsylvania, as a French teacher. After 7 years, I became a high school principal and for my last 16 years in public education, I was school superintendent. In 2000,...