Each year, hundreds of visitors of all ages tour the Pioneer Museum of Alabama in Troy and experience what life was like in earlier centuries.

The older among them reminisce when they spot an artifact that reminds them of days gone by while younger people have an opportunity to see the pages of their history books come to life, said Kari Barley, museum director.

“At the Pioneer Museum of Alabama, we are seeking help in preserving the strong legacy of the museum by encouraging the members of our community to become 2015 members,” Barley said. “Throughout our 44 year history, the community has come together to embrace and support the museum. Memberships and personal contributions are vital in our mission to advance greater knowledge and appreciation of the past.”

Barley said during events like Pioneer Days, Spring Plantin’ and Old Time Christmas, thousands of students explore the galleries and grounds and view more than 18,000 artifacts and 22 historic structures.

“Demonstrators and re-enactors are in costume to model pioneer life,” she said. “What a delight it is to see children’s faces light up when a cannon fires or they take their first bite of cornbread cooked on a wood-burning stove.”

Barley said so much is happening at the Pioneer Museum of Alabama, not only during events, but also throughout the year. The museum regularly hosts tour groups, hands-on-history events, family reunions, weddings and much more.

“These and our many other activities assure the museum is an attractive draw for tourists to the community,” she said. “When you become a member of museum, you help us achieve our mission of preserving the past for the future.”

Members are entitled to a daily admission to the museum during regular business hours, discounts to special programming, a 10 percent discount in the museum gift shop, a subscription to the “Pioneer Herald,” and invitations to exclusive members-only events.

There are different levels of membership beginning with $25 individual memberships and $45 family memberships. Other levels of memberships begin at $60. Memberships are available by calling the Pioneer Museum of Alabama at 566-3597 or visiting the museum.

“We always welcome visitors to the Pioneer Museum of Alabama and encourage members of the community to become involved as volunteers,” Barley said. “We look forward to 2015 and the opportunities and experiences to be shared with our current and new members and volunteers and the many visitors to the Pioneer Museum of Alabama.”