The Manteca Historical Museum has long operated with the help of volunteers.

The Manteca Historical Society is facing some unprecedented challenges in looking to fill three board of director vacancies – president, vice president, and sergeant at arms.

This situation has reduced the museum operation to Sundays only.

“It will no longer be open on Wednesdays,” said Museum officials.

The remaining board members are greatly concerned, adding: “If community members do not step up to volunteer, the museum and the Historical Society may need to cancel upcoming planned events, or in the worse-case scenario, close the museum down entirely.”

Needed are volunteers and docents to cover the Sunday dates when the museum is open, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Two docents would be needed to cover a working shift with the scheduling for that being one Sunday a month.

Located at 600 W. Yosemite Ave., the Manteca Historical Museum hosts a variety of family events, including “Kid’s Night at the Museum” featuring the Great Pumpkin Walk, and the “Easter Parade” with the Easter Egg Walk. Both are free of charge.

Other events in recent years consist of the “Parking Lot Sale” in May, the “Car Show” hosted by Central Valley Early Iron Car Club held last September, and the “Art Show” featuring the work of local artists.

The recent board vacancies came about when Tommie Benevides and Richard Benevides, the respective president and vice president, moved to Texas.

For the past 33 years, the Manteca Museum and the Manteca Historical Society has served as the keepers of the local museum.

Members are always welcomed ($15 per person per year).

Those interested in becoming a member or serving as a volunteer can call 209.825.3021.