The Massachusetts history community is in peril. On top of a long-standing lack of resources available to this sector and a decline in public interest in history, the COVID-19 epidemic has forced the closure of many organizations across the Commonwealth. As we head into winter, those that still survive a
re barely holding on in hopes of finding a flicker of hope that could signal a change for the better. When the hope comes — a reduction in political acrimony, a strategy to contain the virus and government stipends — it helps ease some of the pressure. The hard reality remains that there is no rescue on the horizon.
Those of us that deeply appreciate our state’s rich historical treasures; its old buildings, landscapes, artifacts and most importantly, the stories that tie these things together, intuitively know that it is up to us to try to protect them. This is why voluntarism and the love of history have long walked hand in hand in Massachusetts. Most of our historical societies and house museums would not exist if it were not for sustained contributions of time and energy from volunteers. Even as we struggle to cope with a seemingly insurmountable wave of challenges, stories of selfless commitment emerge, providing strong evidence that the spirit of community and allegiance to local treasures continues to be a vital part of our state’s identity.
Current volunteers in the history community must persevere. Their compensation may only come in the form of gratitude from future generations, but the work must go on. Their work for the greater good must be reinforced by new volunteers. If you have time on your hands, you can make a difference! Your local history organizations would welcome your involvement or, if you are interested in advocating on behalf of small history groups across the state, consider volunteering with the Massachusetts History Alliance.
Eric Peterson
Vice-President, Mass History Alliance