Summer exhibits to close at state museum

Several summer-long exhibits will be closing in the coming days at the Alaska State Museum.

This is the last week to view an exhibition of historic firearms on display at the museum. The exhibition, which includes guns that once belonged to such colorful characters from Alaska's past as "Soapy" Smith, Jack Dalton and Lt. Fredrick Schwatka, will close on Saturday, Oct. 11. Approximately two-dozen rifles and pistols, cannon and other related materials are on view. The items are from the museum's collection as well as from other museums and private collections.

"RAUCOUS! Everything Raven," a multi-faceted art and science exhibition featuring the work of Ketchikan artist Evon Zerbetz, also closes on Saturday, Oct. 11.

"Alaska Positive 2008," featuring 56 photographs by 42 Alaska photographers, is the museum's biennial competition showcasing the best art photography currently being done in Alaska. This exhibition will close on Saturday, Oct. 18.

Winter hours at the museum are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is $3. Visitors 18 and under are admitted free of charge. An annual pass that allows unlimited visits to the Alaska State Museum and the Sheldon Jackson Museum in Sitka is available for $15.

Assistance is available for visitors with special needs; contact visitor services at 465-2901.