“ But part of what we’re preserving here is also history. It’s also understanding that places that look ordinary are nothing but extraordinary. The places you live are extraordinary, which means you can be extraordinary.” - Barack Obama

Small Town Big History

Initially, my project Small Town Big History started as my intention to create a space to tell many distinctive small-town historic house museum stories. These niche museums have a lesser-known but remarkable history, are supported daily by dedicated and loyal staff, present authentic character, and are anchors to their communities. As the global COVID-19 pandemic crisis hit many sectors, I thought that another aspect needed to be underlined: showcasing these museums’ innovative resourcefulness in educational programming.

In particular, I considered the meaning of participation and the many ways in which it can work and what it entails as well as the power of space, the meaningful and enriching experiences shared together as people interacting wether in person or online.

The global pandemic and subsequent economic recession put a dent on many in-person activities. However the challenges, the talented staff cleverly maneuvered around these obstacles into an opportunity to refresh their events and brainstorm for future ones. All showed great creative and resourceful power and found ways to engage with their audiences. The silver lining of this pandemic is that it opened the door to a much larger network via social media and online activities as people have tended to stay home. At a time when isolation and loneliness cast a shadow, these events have given a chance to stay connected and feel included allowing for dialogues to also have their space.

Small Town Big History’s main mission therefore is to include important historical information and emphasize the museums’ value as they are truly local gems many more people should know about. Six unique historic house museums are at the heart of my research, I’m very grateful to have had the opportunity to visit them in person, meet their staff and include conversations that will highlight a team effort.

“ Since 2010 I have seen, again and again and again, how valuable human facilitation is to the participatory process. Humans empower each other. Make space for each other. Invite each other in. Cheer for each other. Build community ” Nina Simon

“It’s not a museum. It’s not a place of artifacts; it’s a place of ideas.”

Jeanie Kahnke

Senior Director of Public Relations and External Affairs Muhammed Ali Center, Louisville KY