BOONSBORO, MD – Although Douglas Garns Bast, the heart and soul behind the Boonsborough Museum of History, passed away in 2021, he left behind a legacy as rich as the collections housed in his Maryland museum.
Bast, who ran his family’s furniture store for decades, channeled his passion for history into the establishment and growth of the museum, renowned for its Civil War relics and global historical artifacts.
Bast’s dedication to history extended beyond the museum walls. He played a crucial role in the founding of the Boonsboro Historical Society and the inception of the annual Boonesborough Days festival. His efforts were not confined to Boonsboro; he was a key figure in the Washington County Historical Society, the Rural Heritage Museum, and served on the county’s Historical Advisory Committee.
In 2012, he shared his extensive knowledge of Boonsboro’s history through co-authorship of a book on the town. Bast was a familiar face to those seeking knowledge, offering his expertise in history, folklore, and antique appraisal, often found leading tours through his beloved museum.
To ensure the museum’s longevity, Bast formed a non-profit organization in 2018, aimed at keeping the museum operational for future generations. The Boonsborough Museum of History, often likened to a “miniature Smithsonian,” hosts an array of artifacts, from ancient Egyptian mummies to items from local Civil War battlefields.
Highlights of the museum include a letter from Clara Barton, a chair from the Lincoln White House, and personal items from Confederate Officer Henry Kyd Douglas. Its weapons collection is formidable, boasting over 500 edged weapons, including a gauntlet sword adorned with gold.
The museum also houses an extensive array of rare books and documents, such as the Martyr’s Mirror and a land deed signed by Anthony Wayne. Exhibits extend to diverse china and glassware, Native American artifacts, and an assortment of lighting devices spanning two millennia.
The reconstructed Cabinetmaker’s Shop of 1860 and a 19th Century General Store are among the museum’s immersive experiences, offering a tangible glimpse into the past.
If you ever find yourself in the Boonsboro area, you should definitely check out the museum. You won’t be disappointed.