PEABODY, MA, May 18, 2006 is the Year of the Museum, and institutions across the country are celebrating 100 years of museums in American life. The George Peabody House Museum, the Peabody Historical Society, the Peabody Institute Library and the Holocaust Center, in conjunction with the Peabody City Council and Mayor Michael J. Bonfanti, are joining cities nationwide by passing a resolution that recognizes 2006 as the Year of the Museum.

The Year of the Museum (YOM) is dedicated to celebrating the rich variety of museums in America, their contributions to civic and cultural life and the unique, personal experiences museums offer visitors each and every day.

"Museums help us make memories and give us pride in our communities. The George Peabody House Museum is proud to be part of the American Association of Museums' Year of the Museum, focusing attention not just on the exceptional institutions in Peabody, but also on the countless museums, societies and cultural centers in our own backyard," said Marieke Van Damme, George Peabody House Museum Curator.

"The Peabody community has no excuse not to visit museums this year. Not only is there a wealth of opportunities nearby, the Peabody Institute Library offers many free or reduced admission passes for families and individuals. The library is also offering free museum checklists to give ideas on places to visit within Essex County," said Assistant Director of the Peabody Institute, Gerri Guyote.

For more information activities in Essex County, visit www.essexheritage.org.

About the Year of the Museum
The Year of the Museum (YOM) is a national effort to bring together the collective voice of the museum field to capture the public's attention and imagination. It is a celebration of the wondrous, amazing, and exciting things that museums do to enrich our lives and our communities. To learn more about YOM and view a list of other participating museums, visit the American Association of Museums' website at www.aam-us.org/sp/yom/

George Peabody House Museum: 978-531-0355
Peabody Historical Society: 978-531-0805
Holocaust Center, Boston North Inc.: 978-531-8288
Peabody Institute Library: 978-531-0100
Peabody City Hall: 978-538-5900