The Orange County Historical Museum has been closed indefinitely due water damage from a recent storm, the Museum’s Board of Directors announced Wednesday.

A release from the museum said repairs conducted on its roof in mid-November led to serious water damage inside. The Town of Hillsborough, which owns the building housing the museum, is currently assessing the damage and determining next steps. The Board of Directors, after consultation with town officials, decided to close the museum due to unsafe conditions.

The historical museum’s three staff members will also be leaving at the end of the year, according to the release.

“The Board regrets losing these valuable employees,” it said, “but it determined that the nature of an indefinite closing period coupled with a change in organizational direction warranted this action.”

The release says no exhibits were damaged, but the main and second floors now need extensive repairs. Both the permanent and temporary exhibits must be moved during the work. The board says its priority is to ensure that both the collection and personnel are safe from harm.

During the closure, the board will assess the operations of the museum with a view to expanding its programs and accessibility, particularly outreach and involvement with the local community and schools. The directors, in consultation with the town, will also explore the possibility of moving the museum to a new location at some time in the future.

The press release says activities already on the Orange County Historical Museum’s schedule will now take place at alternate locations. The updated information will be available on the museum’s website and its Facebook page.

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