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Show House and Home Publications

Reitz Home Museum names new Executive Director

Reitz Home Museum Appoints New Executive Director Amid Exciting Phase of Growth and Preservation Efforts

EVANSVILLE, Ind. – In a move that signals a fresh chapter for one of Evansville's most cherished cultural landmarks, the Reitz Home Museum has officially named Sarah Thompson as its new executive director. The announcement, made on June 30, 2025, comes at a pivotal time for the historic institution, which has long served as a beacon of Victorian-era heritage and community education in the Tri-State area. Thompson, a seasoned museum professional with over 15 years of experience in historic preservation and nonprofit leadership, steps into the role with a vision to enhance public engagement, expand educational programming, and secure the museum's legacy for future generations.

The Reitz Home Museum, located at 112 Chestnut Street in downtown Evansville, is a stunning example of Second Empire architecture, originally built in 1871 for prominent lumber baron John Augustus Reitz and his family. Preserved as a museum since 1974, it offers visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the late 19th century, complete with original furnishings, intricate woodwork, and period artifacts. The museum has become a cornerstone of local history, attracting thousands of tourists, school groups, and history enthusiasts annually. Its collections include rare items such as antique silverware, Victorian clothing, and family heirlooms that tell the story of Evansville's industrial boom during the Gilded Age.

Thompson's appointment follows the retirement of longtime executive director Michael Reynolds, who served for nearly a decade and oversaw significant restorations, including the refurbishment of the home's grand ballroom and the digitization of archival documents. Under Reynolds' leadership, the museum navigated challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic by pivoting to virtual tours and online exhibits, which helped maintain its relevance and financial stability. The board of directors, in a statement released alongside the announcement, praised Reynolds for his dedication and expressed enthusiasm for Thompson's fresh perspective.

"Sarah brings a wealth of expertise and a passion for storytelling that aligns perfectly with our mission to preserve and share the Reitz family's legacy," said Board President Laura Jenkins. "Her innovative ideas for community outreach and digital integration will help us reach new audiences while honoring the traditions that make the Reitz Home so special."

Thompson, 42, hails from Indianapolis, where she most recently served as the director of operations at the Indiana Historical Society. There, she spearheaded initiatives that increased visitor numbers by 25% through interactive exhibits and partnerships with local schools. Her background includes a master's degree in museum studies from Indiana University and a bachelor's in history from Purdue University. Early in her career, she worked at the Conner Prairie Interactive History Park, where she developed programs focused on immersive learning experiences, such as living history reenactments and hands-on workshops.

In an exclusive interview, Thompson shared her excitement about joining the Reitz Home team. "The Reitz Home Museum isn't just a building; it's a living narrative of Evansville's past," she said. "I'm thrilled to build on the strong foundation here by introducing new programming that connects the Victorian era to contemporary issues, like sustainability in historic preservation or the role of women in 19th-century society. We have an opportunity to make history accessible and engaging for everyone, from young students to lifelong learners."

One of Thompson's immediate priorities will be to oversee the museum's upcoming 50th anniversary celebrations in 2026, marking half a century since the home was saved from demolition and transformed into a public museum. Plans include a series of special events, such as themed galas, lecture series featuring historians, and collaborative exhibits with other regional institutions like the Evansville Museum of Arts, History & Science. Additionally, Thompson aims to secure grants for technological upgrades, including augmented reality tours that allow visitors to "step back in time" using their smartphones.

The museum's role in the community extends beyond tourism. It serves as an educational hub, hosting field trips for area schools that align with Indiana's history curriculum. Programs like the annual Victorian Tea Party and holiday open houses foster a sense of community pride and cultural continuity. In recent years, the Reitz Home has also addressed modern themes, such as diversity in historical narratives, by incorporating stories of the Reitz family's immigrant roots—John Reitz emigrated from Germany in the 1830s—and the contributions of underrepresented groups in Evansville's development.

Financially, the museum relies on a mix of ticket sales, memberships, donations, and grants. Thompson's experience in fundraising will be crucial as the institution seeks to expand its endowment. "Preserving a historic site like this requires not just passion but strategic planning," Thompson noted. "We'll be exploring corporate sponsorships and community partnerships to ensure the museum remains vibrant and accessible."

Local leaders have welcomed the change. Evansville Mayor Stephanie Terry commented, "The Reitz Home is a jewel in our city's crown, and Sarah Thompson's leadership will undoubtedly elevate its impact. It's exciting to see how she'll blend tradition with innovation to keep our history alive."

The transition comes amid broader trends in the museum world, where institutions are increasingly focusing on inclusivity and digital accessibility. According to experts, historic house museums like the Reitz Home face unique challenges in engaging younger audiences who are accustomed to interactive, tech-driven experiences. Thompson's track record suggests she's well-equipped to tackle these issues. For instance, at the Indiana Historical Society, she implemented a virtual reality program that allowed remote users to explore exhibits, a model she plans to adapt for the Reitz Home.

Beyond her professional credentials, Thompson brings personal enthusiasm to the role. A self-described history buff, she has volunteered at various heritage sites and is an advocate for women's roles in museum leadership. "I've always been drawn to stories of resilience and innovation, much like the Reitz family's journey from immigrants to industry leaders," she said. "This position feels like a perfect fit."

The board's search for a new director was thorough, involving a national recruitment process that attracted over 50 applicants. A committee of board members, staff, and community stakeholders evaluated candidates based on criteria including leadership experience, fundraising acumen, and a commitment to historic preservation. Thompson emerged as the top choice after multiple rounds of interviews.

As the museum prepares for this leadership change, staff and volunteers are optimistic. Curator Anna Rodriguez, who has been with the Reitz Home for eight years, shared, "Michael left us in a great place, and Sarah's energy is infectious. We're looking forward to new ideas that will make our programs even more dynamic."

Visitors to the Reitz Home can expect continuity in daily operations, with tours resuming their regular schedule starting July 1. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with admission fees supporting ongoing maintenance. Special summer events, including a garden tour series highlighting the home's restored Victorian landscaping, are already underway.

In the larger context of Evansville's cultural landscape, the Reitz Home Museum stands alongside other attractions like the Angel Mounds State Historic Site and the Evansville African American Museum, contributing to the city's reputation as a hub for historical tourism. With Thompson at the helm, the museum is poised to not only preserve the past but also inspire the future, ensuring that the stories of the Reitz family and their era continue to resonate.

This appointment underscores the enduring value of historic preservation in fostering community identity and education. As Evansville continues to grow, institutions like the Reitz Home play a vital role in bridging generations and cultures. Thompson's leadership promises to usher in an era of renewed vitality, making the museum a must-visit destination for years to come.

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[ https://www.14news.com/2025/06/30/reitz-home-museum-names-new-executive-director/ ]