
Pool worked alongside her husband, Art, for 20 years volunteering at the museum. Art passed away in 2010, but Virginia has continued volunteering, and serves as the museum administrator to this day.
Pool served on the museum board for 15 years, and spent six years as president of the Luna County Historical Society. The renovation of the Custom House is rarely discussed without Pool’s name being mentioned as a major force in the work.
Over the past year, Pool worked to realize her late husband’s dream of renovating the second floor of the museum as well as bringing new exhibits for the public to enjoy.
Pool, who was surprised with the recognition at Monday’s Deming City Council meeting, said she was honored to receive a plaque from the city presented by mayor pro-tem Linda Franklin.
Her son, Dick, and daughter-in-law, Melanie, attended the meeting to see Pool honored.