Living in a region so rich with history, many residents would argue that artifacts and displays of the stories and people who paved the way could fill a few buildings.

As the project for moving the southwestern Michigan museum gets under way, those who are against the move must stop and realize how great it is that we have a museum in the first place.

When Southwestern Michigan College and the City of Dowagiac first began fine-tuning details for the switch in location and ownership, many balked at the idea. Some said the museum’s home had always been the college and to move it may jeopardize the number of visitors. Others were convinced that moving the museum to the former Behnke Paint and Floor

Covering building in the downtown area would make the museum strictly about Dowagiac and not about the region.

The museum will remain a testament to the history of southwest Michigan and all its accomplishments.

The move from one space to another will allow for more displays, artifacts and stories to be told.

In addition, the new location will allow for the possibility of more foot traffic and visitors to view our region’s history.

Through grants and private donations, the city has plans to extend the downtown Dowagiac brand at the location and draw more visitors to the area.

Our community should look at the opportunity of a new, bigger and more in-depth museum as a treasure.

The growth of such a move extends far past the museum walls.

This editorial represents the views of the editorial board.