FRIENDS OF THE EASTERN CALIFORNIA MUSEUM

The Friends of the Eastern California Museum (FECM) was established in 1985. FECM is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides financial and volunteer support to the Eastern California Museum. FECM supports the Museum’s mission to preserve and interpret the natural and cultural history of Inyo County. Contributions to FECM are used to improve the Museum facilities and exhibits, to assist the Museum in achieving long-term financial stability, and to sponsor educational programs that encourage public awareness of Inyo County’s rich and diverse heritage.

Membership is open to any person who is in accord with the purposes and policies of FECM.

Governance of FECM is provided by a Board of Trustees.  The Board consists of four officers (President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer), eight trustees, and a Past President. There are two ex-officio members: the Museum director and the County administrative officer or designee.

The FECM membership holds an annual meeting on the second Saturday of March to conduct business and announce election of board officers and trustees. There is a potluck dinner followed by a presentation from a keynote speaker. The annual meeting is open to the public.

FECM receives funding from memberships dues, donations, fundraising events (such as barbecues, silent auctions, and field trips), and grants. Funds are used to support museum exhibits, special events such as book signings and presentations, and advertising. FECM has provided funding for major projects. FECM partnered with the Carson and Colorado Railroad and Inyo County to provide funds to construct the engine barn on the museum grounds to house the restored narrow gauge Southern Pacific Engine 18, the Slim Princess. FECM also partnered with Inyo County and Coso Geothermal to provide funds for construction of a protective structure over the historic Cottonwood charcoal kilns, between Lone Pine and Cartago.