Dhahran’s Community Heritage Gallery: A Time Capsule of Nostalgia
DHAHRAN: Nestled amidst the rows of cookie-cutter clapboard houses in Aramco Camp, overlooking a serene road, lies a hidden gem where heritage and nostalgia collide.
Located on 12th street and Ibis Avenue, within Houses 1220 and 1222 – two of the first homes built in Dhahran camp back in 1938 – the historic buildings have been transformed into the Community Heritage Gallery.
Stepping inside feels like being welcomed into someone’s home, where modern elements blend seamlessly with historical artifacts and memorabilia, creating a unique atmosphere.
Originally inhabited by Dr. T.C. Alexander and his family in the 1940s, these homes hold a rich history. Dr. Alexander, a pioneer physician in Dhahran, played a key role in establishing a regional vaccination program and enhancing the Aramco health system.
His wife, a trailblazer in the community, hosted the first meeting of the Dhahran Women’s Group in 1946, a group that continues to thrive today.
HIGHLIGHT
Aramco is well-known for being the site where black gold was found in the 1930s and that, overnight, it changed the course of the Kingdom and the world’s history.
Years later, Fouad Saleh, the executive director of community services, envisioned a “Saudi Aramco museum” to preserve the company’s history and culture. This dream materialized with the transformation of the Alexanders’ former home into a gallery focused on heritage and Aramco artifacts, open to the public since 1992.
The inauguration was attended by prominent figures like Hisham Nazer and Ali Al-Naimi, highlighting the significance of the gallery in preserving the legacy of Aramco.
The gallery not only showcases company artifacts but also celebrates the community’s contributions to local society. It serves as a time capsule, capturing the evolution and impact of Aramco on the region and beyond.
Visitors like Hassan Bouholaigah, a Dhahran native, are drawn to the gallery’s diverse displays, from old yearbooks to historical photographs. For Bouholaigah, the experience evoked a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for his roots.
Beyond oil, the gallery sheds light on social and cultural milestones in the region, fostering a deep sense of identity and community among visitors.
With a majlis available for private events and a collection of Aramco-produced films, the Heritage Gallery offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Dhahran’s history.
Located near the Dhahran Recreation Library, the gallery welcomes visitors free of charge, providing a window into the past from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on most days.