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CASSOPOLIS — More than 100 guests from Dowagiac and beyond attended the Dowagiac Area History Museum’s annual Keep History Alive Fundraiser Wednesday evening at Marion Magnolia Farms.

The fundraiser raised approximately $43,000 — surpassing its annual goal — according to museum director Steve Arseneau. 

Keep History Alive was created in 2017 as a way for the museum to raise general operation support and reach its fundraising goals for each year, with money generated via live and silent auctions.

The event featured live and silent auctions, a raffle drawing, food from Oak and Ash and a cash bar. More than 100 items were available for auction, including tickets to college sporting events, gift certificates and goods from area businesses, local antiques not from the museum’s collection, local history artifacts and more.

According to Arseneau, three-quarters of the museum’s operational budget comes from fundraising efforts. He thanked the museum’s board, the Friends of the Dowagiac Area History Museum, the sponsors and auction donors, Marion Magnolia Farms, Wounded Minnow Saloon, Baker’s Rhapsody and Lindy’s Restaurant for providing everything for the event.

“Everyone had a great time at the event and the funds raised exceeded our goal,” Arseneau said. “The live auction was especially lively last night with one Round Oak print going for $5,500. That had the room buzzing. The event didn’t just happen—from Marion Magnolia Farms and food vendors to the board members and all the attendees who bid high and bid often—thank you.”

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