Edmee CR Hasler
Contributing writer
The Salem Museum & Historical Society bids farewell to Alex Burke, a dedicated member of its team for nearly a decade. Burke’s journey with the museum began in May 2016, right after graduating from Roanoke College. However, his connection with the museum dates back even further, to an internship in 2014. From unpaid intern to assistant director, Burke’s growth and contributions have left a lasting impact on the institution.
“I started off as an unpaid intern, then I was privileged enough to be offered a Saturday-only position working the front desk,” Burke reminisces. “After I graduated, I had a one-day-a-week position. When my boss left, I was offered the office manager position, which eventually transformed into the Assistant Director role a couple of months later in 2017.”
Reflecting on his tenure, Burke notes the significant changes and updates to the exhibits throughout the museum. “The biggest thing is that the exhibits have been updated throughout the entire museum. It was a privilege to work on and put my impact on all the exhibits I’ve worked on over the years.”
A key focus of Burke’s work has been engaging the public, especially younger visitors. “We’ve focused on giving visitors experiences that not only help them learn but also engage them. For instance, we have a WWI helmet that kids can try on and feel, getting them interested in history in a hands-on way,” he explains. “Giving visitors different ways to interact with the material will help take the public history world into the next chapter.”
Burke’s passion for history began at a young age, sparked by a visit to Jamestown with his father when he was five years old. This passion was further fueled by his education at Roanoke College. “I took one education class and realized teaching every single day wasn’t for me. But my passion for history has always been there,” he shares.
After completing his MBA from Virginia Commonwealth University, Burke discovered a newfound interest in finance and accounting, leading to his next career move at the Carilion Finance and Accounting Office. “Throughout my master’s degree program, I had a strong connection to finance and accounting, which I’m now transitioning into my next career.”
The Salem Museum and Historical Society has been more than just a workplace for Burke. “Not many people get the opportunity to work at their hometown history museum. I was really lucky to find this opportunity and to share my story along with my hometown’s story,” he says.
Susan Kirby, a board member, praises Burke’s contributions: “He’s been such a part of this institution for as long as I’ve been involved. He’s left a stamp on so many different things—the exhibits, the policies, keeping up with visitors, rentals, his wonderful presentations on the Civil War. We’re lucky to have had him, and we’re certainly going to miss him.”
Garrett Channell, who worked with Burke for three years, adds, “He’s very knowledgeable about Salem history and what we have in the museum. I think we’ll miss him being a ready reference and knowing so much about the area and its history.”
As Burke embarks on his new journey, the Salem Museum & Historical Society reflects on the legacy of passion, knowledge and community engagement he leaves behind.
