Idaho Basque Exhibit Featured in New York

'Hidden in Plain Sight: The Basques' at Ellis Island National Monument

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Idaho's Basque Museum and Cultural Center

Jan 26, 2010, 11:30 ET

BOISE, Idaho, Jan. 26 /PRNewswire/ -- Idaho's Basque Museum and Cultural Center has created an insider's look into the compelling historical journey of the of Basque men, women and children who immigrated in the early 20th Century from the Basque regions of France and Spain to the United States. "Hidden in Plain Sight: The Basques" is a new exhibit that will be displayed at Ellis Island National Monument in New York City.

"Hidden in Plain Sight" explores the language, customs, traditions and values of the Basque people as well as the allure that America held for them. The exhibit will be on display from February 6 to May 9, 2010.

"As the nation's only Basque museum, we were presented with this rare opportunity to create an unprecedented display of Basque history, language and culture in the U.S. The result is breathtaking," said Patty Miller, executive director of the Basque Museum and Cultural Center.

The exhibit showcases Basque history and culture in six separate gallery rooms, each with its own theme and narrative. Exhibit materials were selected to represent Basques from across the U.S. as well as the Basque homeland. The compilation includes audio and visual recordings, historic and contemporary photographs, never-before-seen historical artifacts, artwork and interactive activities.

Basques have made a significant impact around the world throughout history and continue to have a vast presence and influence in the U.S., particularly in the American West. Contemporary American Basques have benefitted greatly from the strong work ethic and determination of their ancestors. Today, Basque culture is alive and thriving, and the Boise Basque Museum and Cultural Center in Idaho serves as a pivotal national cultural resource for Basque education, history and celebration.

About the Basque Museum and Cultural Center

The Museum was established in 1985 and has grown to include a large gallery, classrooms, varied collections and a specialty retail store. Located in scenic Boise, Idaho, the Basque Museum & Cultural Center is an international leader showcasing Basque history and culture and connecting people to Basque experiences in the world. Through hard work and the support of many individuals, businesses, foundations, and Basque communities, the Museum began to interpret the rich and colorful history of the Basques, their origins, and their new life in the United States.

www.basquemuseum.com www.basqueexhibit.com

SOURCE Idaho's Basque Museum and Cultural Center