Museum people are talking a lot about whether their organizations should be politically, “neutral” in their presentation and interpretation of history. But what is neutrality?

Join us for a conversation about how history organizations can broaden their base of support through programming that moves well beyond the traditional tours and exhibits.

As historical organizations increasingly take on the role of relevance to a wider audience, we need to collect different "stuff" from a more diverse population. Perhaps your town has changed over the past century and your collections do not reflect the local histories of people and groups who are now a vital part of your community. How do you go about enriching your collections with their stories and connecting them to older histories? What are the obstacles and successes you have met with?

What is it about reviving an historically accurate event or person that inspires living history practitioners to endure itchy, ill-fitting clothes, weather events, long marches, and endless practice? Is it the thrill of public performance? Fulfillment from teaching accurate interpretations? Camaraderie amongst the avid? Join two local reenactors as we explore their long-time allegiance to bringing the past back to life.

How can museums and historic sites keep young people engaged in historical study? Join us for a panel with the Massachusetts Historical Society, RevSpaces, and the Concord Review.

How can museums and historic sites keep young people engaged in historical study? Join us for a panel with the Massachusetts Historical Society, RevSpaces, and the Concord Review.

Join us on October 20 from 2:00-3:30pm for this Conversation on the Commons.