2023 marks 9 years Western Spirit claims True West Magazine distinction
Staff Reports | Digital Free Press
Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West has been named the No. 1 Western museum by True West Magazine.
The announcement is featured in the special 70th-anniversary edition of the September magazine, available now on newsstands, according to a press release.
For the 18th consecutive year, True West Magazine has presented the award for ‘Top Western Museums of the West’, which the magazine seeks to recognize the outstanding institutions that embody the spirit of the American West. Their editors base the selections on criteria evaluating exhibits, facilities, multi-media and online accessibility, events, and promotion of historic/cultural resources, officials there say.
Western Spirit’s representatives report the museum’s mission is dedicated to preserving the rich history and cultural heritage of the greater American West and works to highlight the importance of safeguarding artwork, artifacts, and stories that illuminate the region’s past to shape.
“Being named the #1 Western Museum for 2023 by True West is a tremendous honor,” said Todd Bankofier, CEO and executive director of Western Spirit.
“We take immense pride in our ongoing efforts to provide captivating activities that cater to visitors of all ages, ensuring that every day, we share the awe-inspiring stories of the West.”
2023 marks 9 years Western Spirit claims True West Magazine top distinction
David Scholefield, Western Spirit’s marketing director, echoed a similar sentiment of elation pointing out the purpose of Western Spirit is to offer authentic experiences.
“We strive to create engaging and authentic experiences that connect visitors to the past, present, and future of the West, and this No. 1 distinction motivates us to continue our mission with even greater purpose,” he said.
Western Spirit features regularly changing and permanent exhibits of Western and Native American art and artifacts, entertaining events, and informative programs that bring the West’s heritage, culture, and community to life.
“Since its opening in 2015, we have seen Western Spirit’s commitment to excellence through exceptional contributions that preserve legend and legacy, attracting audiences from all over the world,” said True West magazine’s Executive Editor Bob Boze Bell. “Western Spirit’s No. 1 Western Museum award is a well-deserved accolade for a true pioneer in the field.”
