On Monday, Aug. 30, staff from the HistoryMiami Museum will begin removing, cataloging and preserving the mementos and messages left at the Wall of Hope, a temporary memorial set up by members of the community dedicated to the victims of the Champlain Towers South collapse.
To preserve this act of love and ensure the victims are properly honored with a permanent memorial, these items will be under the care of the museum until a new site has been determined. This safeguarding is particularly important as hurricane season often becomes more active in the late summer and early fall months.
The Town of Surfside will continue to work with HistoryMiami, Miami-Dade County, the victims and their families and community members throughout the preservation process and transition to a permanent site.
For questions and updates about the Wall of Hope, visit SurfsideStrength.com/MemorialWall.
How does the preservation process work?
HistoryMiami’s process ensures that non-perishable items, such as signs, cards, photos and objects, are carefully labeled, photographed in situ, and transported to storage until a permanent location is determined.
Why are these items being moved?
Due to the potential threats of extreme weather in South Florida and constant exposure to the elements, it is important to move quickly to preserve these items to properly honor and remember the victims. HistoryMiami is providing this service pro bono.
Will my family’s items be preserved?
All items that have been placed at the Wall of Hope without extensive damage will be preserved. Flowers and other perishable items are not able to be preserved.
What space is being offered as a memorial as items are stored?
The Town of Surfside is creating an area at its Tennis Center (8750 Collins Ave.) to memorialize the victims and allow visitors a chance to share their memories, condolences and other messages. Signage will be placed near the Wall of Hope to direct visitors once that location is available.
Who can I contact if I would like to add new items or share ideas on a permanent memorial?
Please email [email protected] with any questions and feedback.
