Cape museum's Marjorie Thompson remembered for her dedication

A champion of the preservation of Cape Girardeau's history, Marjorie Thompson spent more than 25 years archiving the city's heritage with her work for the Cape River Heritage Museum.

Thompson, 86, who served as the director of the Cape River Heritage Museum from 1999 to 2008, died Tuesday morning after a battle with cancer.

Thompson served on the museum's board of directors and volunteered with the museum for more than 25 years. Those who knew her said she worked tirelessly on exhibits aimed at preserving and archiving the history of the area.

Beverly Hahs, friend and River Heritage Museum board member, said Thompson focused much of her time and energy on ensuring the museum's success.

Close friend and Cape River Heritage Museum board member Bonnie Stepenoff, said Thompson incorporated pieces from her collection of historic items into many of the exhibits she staged.

"She really did a beautiful job with the museum," Stepenoff said. "She organized the exhibits and a lot of times she would bring items from her house, which was one of the best preserved historical homes in the area."

A Cape Girardeau native, Thompson was the great-granddaughter of Col. George C. Thilenius, who built the historic Longview house in 1870 on Whitener Street.

Thompson preserved the home, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Thompson began working with the Cape River Heritage Museum in 1981 after hosting a party for the museum at Longview.

During her time with the museum, Thompson improved its annual membership campaign, supervised volunteer docents and organized exhibits. She also worked closely with the board of directors and hosted fundraisers. In 1999, Thompson's duties expanded when she was she was elected museum director and president of its volunteer board.

In 2003, the historic honor society at Southeast Missouri State University, Sigma Pi Kappa, presented Thompson with an award in recognition of her contribution to historic preservation.

ssemmler@semissourian.com

388-3648

Pertinent Address:

538 Independence Street, Cape Girardeau, MO