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FAQsThe following are the most commmonly asked questions about "Hidden in Plain Sight: the Basques".
Q - Can you tell me more about Ellis Island and the exhibit? A - Ellis Island has been dubbed “Gateway to the New World,” as more than 12 million immigrants entered the United States through the small island in New York Harbor from 1892 to 1954. The Island attracts nearly 4 million visitors every year. More than 300,000 people are expected to view Hidden in Plain Sight. Q - Who is putting together the exhibit? A - Hidden in Plain Sight is brought to you by the nation’s only Basque museum, Boise Idaho's Basque Museum & Cultural Center, the center for study and celebration of Basque history, culture and language in the U.S. Q - What kinds of things are included in the exhibit? A - “Hidden in Plain Sight” explores the language, customs, traditions and values of the Basque people as well as the allure that America held for them. Hidden in Plain Sight will recount the compelling historical journey of the of Basque men, women and children who immigrated in the early 20th Century from the Basque regions of France and Spain to the United States. Q - When is the exhibit going to be in New York? A - “Hidden in Plain Sight: The Basques” is a new exhibit that will be displayed at Ellis Island National Monument in New York City. The exhibit debuts at the Basque Museum and Cultural Center in Boise in January prior to being transported to Ellis Island where it will be on display from February to May. Q - What can we expect when we visit the exhibit? A - The exhibit showcases Basque history and culture in six separate gallery rooms, each with its own theme and narrative. Exhibit materials were selected to represent Basques from across the U.S. as well as the Basque homeland. The compilation includes audio and visual recordings, historic and contemporary photographs, never-before-seen historical artifacts, artwork and interactive activities. Q - When did Basques start arriving in Idaho? A - Most of Idaho’s Basque population has ancestors from the province of Bizkaia. Basque names first appeared in Idaho in the late 1800's. Although it was not something they had done in their homeland, many of these immigrants began working as sheepherders, as the English and Scottish had a lot of sheep and a need for workers to tend to them. Others worked in mining and logging. They were renowned for their honesty and work ethic. Q - Where are we able to find out more about Basques in Idaho? A - Today’s Basque community in Boise remains close-knit and active, with an entire block dedicated to Basque culture, cuisine and history. Prominently located in downtown Boise, this area is known as the “Basque Block”. For more information about the Basque people, their homeland and more visit the links page by clicking here. |
