Multi-site Historic Interpretation: History of Childhood

This project succeeded in moving all three measureable outcomes forward, these are; (1) creation of products, (2) coordination, and (3) enduring relationships.
1.Through this project we conducted a significant original research, generating 4,100+ citations from almost 220 academic, Minnesota, and local history sources. This includes numerous previously unknown personal and family histories from Steele County families. The resulting script represents a fraction of the material we uncovered about the lives of Steele County children.

In all, we completed approximately 500 pages of written material from which we have drawn our script. The remaining material will be drawn on to provide the backbone for community discussion. This will happen in both in person programming and via various media such as radio, television, and internet.

We also completed the design of programming for both children and adults. During the project, one program being developed, :What do you want to be when you grow up: An Inventor!: was shared with a teacher. This program teaches about Ebenhard Gandrud, his new way to measure land and problems he faced.

In one hour, students learn history, build a Gandy Wheel, measure classroom objects, and perform mathematical calculations. The teacher immediately booked the presentation and shared it with colleagues. The program was booked for seven classroom appearances within three days.

We also designed two new types of family and adult programs, each with several themes. One of them, :Some Experience Required,: will be billed as an open mic roundtable. It will feature a 15 minute presentation from a community member, followed by 10 people who take tickets entitling them to three minutes of mic time.

We are suggesting eight topics; one will be covered per evening. Topics include; rites of passage, extraordinary memories of daily life, and family struggles. Some examples include; prom, drivers exam, school days, and death of a (child) family member. We will encourage the public to come and get to know their neighbors better.

2.Despite significant attempts to balance the mood, period, and representation of populace in the script, we noticed several deficiencies. These stem from a lack of written/recorded primary sources on our (recorded history) silent community members, children. There have been significant changes to childhood in the last 50 years, and there is no local record of it. Among our concerns is the advent of the digital age. Will it render the few existing sources of information on childhood even more ephemeral:

As such we have begun to draw up plans to continue our research over the coming years. Our hope is to gather enough data to tell the stories we need to bring balance. Specifically, the partners felt we need more modern and light-hearted stories.

What may end up being most important, however, is the team effort to seek the information through community sessions, survey, and strategic online interactions.

3.This project strengthened our partnership. The follow-up work will give us focus and ensure that we continue to meet on a regular basis. At this time we plan to continue to meet bi-monthly to discuss our project, compare results, and set upcoming assignments.