Auburn’s White River Valley Museum invites Plateau area residents to enter the sentimental world of animals and their people during the Victorian era with the photographic exhibit “Best Friends: Antique Images of Animals and Their People” on display Jan. 11 through April 15.

Documented in the earliest books, paintings and even hieroglyphs, the relationship between people and their furry four-legged family members is one that seems to have been cherished since the dawn of time. It’s no wonder, then, that people and their pets were popular subjects during the rise of photography during the Victorian era.

“The love of animals connects eras,” said museum director Patricia Cosgrove. “You may look at a Victorian photograph and marvel at long skirts, gloves and waistcoats, but the expressions of pure happiness because the family dog is in the picture resonate with you.”

Cosgrove crisscrossed King County to find the 40 images used in the “Best Friends” exhibit. They range from a formal shipboard portrait of a sailing crew and their Newfoundland dog to a pinafored little girl at a tea party attended by her cats. Each picture is partnered with poetry or folk wisdom.

Wondering where the idea for the exhibit came from? Just ask Cosgrove’s office mate, Gidget, trained as a service dog, the loyal border collie delivers mail to the museum staff by name.

UPCOMING MUSEUM EVENTS

Youth Poetry Contest, Jan. 1 – Feb. 17

White River Valley Museum wants to hear about your best friends! Kids ages seven to 17 can submit poetry for a chance to win cash prizes and be featured in the “Best Friends” exhibit. For more information and a complete list of contest rules, go to Events at www.wrvmuseum.org.

Pet Photography: A Photo of My Best Friend, Jan. 21, noon to 4 p.m.

Photographer Teresa Vaughn will be at the museum to take pet photos. Cost of $15 includes museum admission and one 5×7 picture. A portion of the proceeds benefits the White River Valley Museum.

Adult Program: Be My Valentine Poetry Workshop, Feb. 7, 7 to 9 p.m.

Join members of Auburn’s Striped Water Poetry group in a romantic writing workshop and walk away with the skills to write your own verses of love just in time for Valentine’s Day. Cost is $5 per person and includes museum admission. Pre-registration required by calling 253-288-7433.

Kids Program: Best Friends Movie Night at the Museum, March 30, 7 to 9 p.m.

Kids ages seven to 12 will enjoy the “Best Friends” exhibit followed by a dog-themed movie and popcorn. Cost is $5 per child and includes museum admission. Pre-registration required by calling 253-288-7433.