Local Historian Common Challenges Faced by Historic House Museums: a Conversation with the Fairfield Heritage Association

Volume 30 Issue 4 July/August 2014

THE Local Historian Common Challenges Faced by Historic House Museums: A Conversation with the Fairfield Heritage Association

By Laura Heron, Local History AmeriCorps The basement of Member, Ohio History the Fairfield Heritage Connection, Columbus Association’s Sherman House Museum. Photo Any visitor to the Georgian Mu- courtesy of the Fairfield seum or the Sherman House Museum in Heritage Association. downtown Lancaster will immediately be impressed by how much the Fairfield Heritage Association (FHA) is getting munity’s attic.” This is a particularly crucial FHA has been proactive in attract- right. With a professional staff of three, point for FHA because in addition to ing interns from local universities. In fact, including Executive Director Andrea Broo- operating the house museums, it serves as Kady served as an intern before she was kover, Office Manager Mary Lawrence, and the historical society for Fairfield County. hired as a permanent employee. Andrea Assistant Office Manager Kady Wolfe, as Andrea noted that they have been fortu- recommends reaching out to local univer- well as a dedicated cadre of hard-working nate because their organization imple- sities and high schools, as well as look- volunteers, FHA’s two major sites reflect mented a policy early on, a decision that ing beyond history majors for potential the organization’s commitment to best has helped keep their collection manage- interns. Education, graphic art, non-profit practices. During a recent visit to the Geor- able. “It buys you time to stop and think,” management, and urban development are gian Museum, I sat down with Andrea, she said, “about what you collect and why also majors from which to draw talented Mary, and Kady to discuss common chal- you collect it. It defines your mission and young volunteers. Drawing volunteers lenges of running historic house museums: outlines your interpretive plan.” from younger age brackets requires think- collections and volunteers. They shared FHA is also exploring ways to present ing outside the box and breaking out of some strategies that help manage these the county’s history more broadly. Cur- the traditional volunteer categories. While issues. rently, the staff and board of directors are (Continued on page 3) Storage and maintenance top the list working to develop a county history col- of collections issues. While the museum lection that does not require storage space. standard for artifact storage is a constant One solution already in place is the use of environmental temperature between 68 WHAT’S INSIDE: temporary exhibits. These changing attrac- and 70 degrees Fahrenheit with a relations give even long-time members a rea- tive humidity of 50%, it can be difficult to 2 President’s Message son to rediscover the museums. Another maintain storage areas at that level due to potential solution is a “virtual museum,” 3 Alliance Award budget constraints or an inability to con- which functions as a digital catalog of arti- Nominations vert a historic structure. In this case, the facts and documents in private collections. best storage option is to utilize spaces that 4 Fundraising Frenzy The second great challenge for any his- offer the best protection from the elements, toric house museum is attracting and re- 5 Housing Heirlooms like interior closets, dresser drawers, and taining volunteers. Like many other history even areas under beds. Or, you can put the 6 Local History Office Services organizations, FHA relies on people who entire collection on exhibit, but this is sel- have retired from full-time employment. 7 Announcements dom practical. In all cases, it is essential to While these volunteers are dependable and carefully inspect the condition of both the 9 New & Renewing Members dedicated, the organization needs to also building and collection items regularly. As attract younger members who will remain 10 Calendar Mary quipped, “Don’t forget about what’s invested into the future. The FHA staff had in the closet!” 11 News from the Regions three recommendations: be proactive, be Some storage shortages can be avoided flexible, and keep the lines of communica- 12 People in the News by writing a collections policy. As the FHA tion open. team all agreed, “You can’t be the com- 1 broad range of topics, so that there is something to year. Participants will enjoy food and fellowship at President’s appeal to everyone. Looking to add a digital or social the nearby Wine Bistro restaurant. With all this and media offering? Check out Walking Tours Using Mo- more, there’s sure to be something for everyone. We’re Message: bile Apps or Social Media Trends: Why Should Your looking forward to seeing you in the fall! Museum Care? Perhaps you’re hoping to make im- provements to your collections and collections storage. Maggie Marconi Behind the scenes, the Education Commit- You may want to attend Managing Your Collections President, Ohio Local History Alliance Museum Administrator, Sandusky Library/ tee has been hard at work putting together our best or Conservation, Preservation, Care & Handling Follett House Museum annual meeting yet. It is slated for October 3rd and Basics. There are management sessions on boards, (419) 625-3834 4th at the Worthington Holiday Inn. Once again, we copyright law, standards, and how to run an effective [email protected] are partnering with the Society of Ohio Archivists. meeting. If you are looking for ideas to amp up your Their sessions will take place on Friday, and OLHA program offerings, check out Common Core: How members are invited and encouraged to take advan- Do Historical Organizations Fit In, Youth Camps tage of the concurrent annual meetings to experience 101, or Teen Programming in Museums. If you are expanded offerings. Alliance sessions will take place looking to meet colleagues and make connections, both Friday and Saturday. Wondering what some be sure to sign up for our Speed Networking session! of the sessions include? We have carefully selected a We are changing up our Friday evening event this

2014 Board Members Ohio Local History Alliance

President Ex-Officio (Executive Secretary) Region 5 Maggie Marconi, Museum Administrator Mark Sundlov, Department Manager Kate Smith, Executive Director Sandusky Library/ Follett House Museum Local History Office, Spring Hill Historic Home, Sandusky Ohio History Connection, Columbus Massillon (419) 625-3834 (614) 297-2343 (330) 833-6749 [email protected] The Ohio Local History Alliance, [email protected] [email protected] http://www.sandusky.lib.oh.us/follett_house http://www.ohiohistory.org organized in 1960 under sponsorship of http://www.springhillhistorichome.org the Ohio History Connection, is composed 1st Vice President Region 1 Cristina Savu, Registrar of local historical societies, historic preservation Beth Weinhardt, Coordinator Gary Levitt, Director Massillon Museum, Massillon groups, history museums, archives, libraries, Anti-Saloon League Museum, Westerville Museum of Postal History, Delphos (330) 833-4061 (x112) and genealogical societies throughout the state (614) 882-7277, Ext 160 (419) 303-5482 [email protected] involved in collecting, preserving, and interpreting [email protected] [email protected] http://massillonmuseum.org http://westervillelibrary.org/local-history http://www.postalhistorymuseum.org Ohio’s history. Region 6 2nd Vice President Holly Hartlerode, Curator Leslie Blankenship, The Local Historian (ISSN 9893-3340) is published Todd McCormick, Curator/Director bimonthly by the Ohio History Connection, 800 E. Wood County Historical Center Franklinton Historical Society Logan County Historical Society Bowling Green 17th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43211-2497, as a Columbus Bellefontaine (419) 352-0967 benefit to Ohio Local History Alliance members. (614) 527-1957 (937) 593-7557 [email protected] [email protected] Periodicals Postage Paid at Columbus, OH. [email protected] http://www.woodcountyhistory.org http://franklintonhistoricalsociety.org http://www.loganhistory.org Region 2 Andrea Brookover, Executive Director POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Secretary The Local Historian, Local History Office, Ohio Brenda Stultz, Curator Fairfield Heritage Association, Lancaster Ruth Brindle, Curator Clyde Heritage League, Clyde (740) 654-9923 History Connection, 800 E. 17th Avenue, Columbus, Quaker Heritage Center OH 43211-2497. Editors: Amy Rohmiller, Mark (419) 547-7946 [email protected] Wilmington College, Wilmington [email protected] http://www.fairfieldheritage.org Sundlov, Rosa Rojas (937) 382-6661, Ext 719 http://www.clydeheritageleague.org [email protected] Region 7 Please direct materials or phone inquiries to: http://www2.wilmington.edu/qhc Gale Martin, Executive Director Chris Burton, Executive Director The Local Historian Marion County Historical Society, Marion Armstrong Air & Space Museum Local History Office Treasurer (740) 387-4255 Wapakoneta Kathleen Fernandez, Executive Director Ohio History Connection [email protected] (419) 738-8811 North Canton Heritage Society 800 E. 17th Avenue http://www.marionhistory.com [email protected] North Canton http://www.armstrongmuseum.org Columbus, OH 43211-2497 (330) 494-4791 Region 3 1-800-858-6878 [email protected] Rebecca Larson-Troyer, Librarian Kasey Eichensehr, Curator FAX: (614) 297-2567 http://www.northcantonheritage.org Special Collections Division Clark County Historical Society [email protected] Akron-Summit County Public Library Springfield Trustees-At-Large (937) 324-0657 Visit The Alliance online at www.ohiolha.org Akron Joy Armstrong, Executive Director (330) 643-9030 [email protected] and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ohio- Sylvania Historical Village, Sylvania [email protected] http://www.heritagecenter.us/ localhistoryalliance (419) 882-4865 http://sc.akronlibrary.org [email protected] Region 8 Annual Membership Dues: http://www.cityofsylvania.com/default. Timothy Daley, Executive Director Kelsey Berger, Property & Farm Director Organizations: aspx?nspace=CityOfSylvania.Home.Discover- Cuyahoga County Soldiers’ and Sailor’ Gorman Heritage Farm Annual budget over $200,000: $100 ($190 for 2) Sylvania.SylvaniaHistory.HistoricalVillage Monument, Cleveland Cincinnati Annual budget $100,000-$200,000: $75 ($140 for 2) (216) 621-3746 (513) 563-6663 Annual budget $25,000-$100,000: $60 ($110 for 2) Jim Gibson, Executive Director [email protected] [email protected] Annual budget below $25,000: $35 ($65 for 2) Knox County Historical Society http://www.soldiersandsailors.com http://www.gormanfarm.org Mt. Vernon Individuals: (740) 393-5247 Region 4 Region 9 Affiliate: $35 ($65 for 2) [email protected] Leann Rich, Manager of Education Margaret Parker, President Individual: $50 ($90 for 2) http://www.knoxhistory.org & External Relations Meigs County Historical Society, Pomeroy Students: $20 Mahoning Valley Historical Society (740) 992-3810 Wendy Zucal, Executive Director Youngstown [email protected] Business: $100 ($190 for 2) Dennison Railroad Depot Museum (330) 743-2589 http://meigscohistorical.org Individual subscriptions to The Local Historian Dennison [email protected] (740) 922-6776 Jessica Cyders, Curator only are available for $25 annually. http://www.mahoninghistory.org [email protected] Athens County Historical Society, Athens © 2014 Ohio History Connection http://dennisondepot.org Lae’l Hughes-Watkins, University Archivist (740) 592-2280 KSU Department of Special Collections & [email protected] Immediate Past-President Archives, Kent http://athenshistory.org Christie Weininger, Executive Director (330) 672-1639 Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center [email protected] Region 10 Fremont http://www.library.kent.edu/page/10300 Jim Geyer, Director for Museums Pioneer & Historical Society of Muskingum (419) 332-2081 County, Zanesville [email protected] (740) 454-9500 http://www.rbhayes.org [email protected] http://www.muskingumhistory.org

The Local Historian July/August, 2014 2 Last Chance to Nominate Projects for 2014 Alliance Outstanding Achievement Awards

Nominate the fantastic local history work being done in your community for a 2014 Ohio Local History Alliance Outstanding Achievement Award! The Alliance presents awards in two categories – Individual Achievement and History Outreach. Individual Achievement Awards recognize those who have made outstanding contributions to Ohio’s historical societies, history museums, or the understanding and appreciation of state and local history. Nominees must have been involved in a local history organization for at least five years and have demonstrated excellence in more than one area of that organization’s operations. If the nominee is a teacher, he or she must demonstrate categories: public programming, media Recipients of the 2013 Ohio Local History creativity in teaching methods and exper- and publications, and exhibits/displays. Alliance Outstanding Achievement Awards at the Annual Meeting. Nominations for this tise in local and state history. Nominations must be postmarked by year’s awards are due August 1. Photo cour- History Outreach Awards recognize August 1, 2014. Download a nomination tesy of the Ohio History Connection. outstanding local history projects. These form at http://www.ohiolha.org/outstand- projects must have educational content, ing-achievement-awards/ or contact the contribute to the promotion and under- Local History Office at 1.800.858.6878 standing of local or state history, and or 614.297.2340. You can also email impact the local community. Nomina- [email protected]. tions will be accepted in the following Good luck!

Common Challenges Faced by Historic House Museums

(Continued from page 1) one volunteer per shift can reduce fatigue climate-controlled spaces. The FHA team people with full-time jobs or younger and may encourage people to increase would love to hear from anyone willing children might like to be involved, they are their hours. Some museums might con- to share their experiences with this type usually not available during daytime mu- sider making upstairs exhibits self-guided, of project. The staff may be reached at seum hours. However, they might be able as FHA has done in the Sherman House. 740.654.9923 or director@fairfieldheritage. to assist with special events in the evenings If a volunteer is experiencing decreased org. or on weekends. A “once-in-a-while” com- mobility, he or she can take on tasks that mitment can grow to more when they have can be done at home, such as making calls greater availability down the road. or helping with mailings. The main thing is While attracting new faces is impor- to keep the lines of communication open. tant, retaining veterans deserves just as While the FHA staff has plenty of use- much effort. The keys are flexibility and ful tips to offer, they are also interested in communication. Andrea and Mary recom- receiving input from other local history or- mend regularly reevaluating how both the ganizations, particularly regarding a major physical environment and scheduling are project they are undertaking. With funding working for volunteers. Are the facilities from the state’s capital improvement bud- accessible to them? For older volunteers, get for 2015-2016, they will be adapting the installing handrails and adjusting lighting basement of the Sherman House and the are accommodations that can reduce stress unfinished attic of the Georgian Museum and increase safety. Scheduling more than to increase storage space and create secure,

The Local Historian July/August, 2014 3 Fundraising Frenzy: Tips to Get the Grant

By Jen Graham, Local relate to and affect the development History AmeriCorps of your project can help the clarity Member, Oberlin and focus of your fundraising pro- Heritage Center, posals, as well as in the implemen- Oberlin tation of your program.

[Editor’s Note: This article originally Know Your Grantmaker: appeared in The Present Past: A If you are applying for a grant, it Regional Local History Publica- is okay to use a template or an old tion from Northeast Ohio. It is proposal to start, but remember to reprinted here with permission.] customize your new proposal to meet each grant’s unique criteria. For a non-profit organiza- Not every grant will be a good tion, finding the money to imple- match for your project, so it is ment a project can be frustrating. useful to do some research ahead Knowing where to start is some- of time. The Foundation Center times the hardest part. It can be (http://foundationcenter.org) is difficult because non-profits are a leading source of information often competing with each other on philanthropic organizations for a share in a shrinking pool of worldwide and provides the most funds. Below are a few tips and comprehensive database of grant- resources for raising funds, taken making foundations in the United from a presentation by Jerolyn States. There is even a Foundation Barbee of the Ohio History Con- Center learning center in Cleve- nection. land (http://foundationcenter.org/ cleveland) that offers a library of Know Your Markets: resources and various workshops In 2012, for the third consecutive for grant research. year, total giving in the United Other great resources for States increased. Foundations, grant opportunities and workshops corporations, and private in- include the Grantsmanship Center dividuals all stepped up their Knowing your markets, your project, and (www.tgci.com), Philanthropy Ohio donations to non-profits, reaching nearly your grantmaker can lead to the perfect (www.philanthropyohio.org), Grants.gov $1.5 trillion that year. When examining match of your idea and a funder. Image (http://grants.gov), and GrantSpace (http:// courtesy of the Library of Congress. philanthropic trends, it is interesting to grantspace.org). note that 72% of gifts came from individ- When researching a grantmaker, you uals, rather than foundations or corpo- fications does your organization can use websites like those listed above rations, and that lower income families bring to the table? to determine whether a funder would be actually gave a higher percentage of their • Are there opportunities to collabo- a good match for your proposal. 990-PF annual income than either the wealthy or rate with other organizations? forms show how foundations spend their middle-classes. These facts are important money. Look over the forms to see which to keep in mind because they indicate a • What is your project’s budget, and types of groups the organization supports significant market for fundraising that how will the funds be divided be- and how much money they typically give. should not be overlooked. tween direct service and program If possible, look for grantmakers that have operations? connections to your non-profit, whether Know Your Project: • How much money can your organi- through past projects or a current employee. Develop your project by considering some zation contribute? Chances are, your organization is of the following questions: sitting on an awesome project waiting for • What is the timetable for the project? What is the problem or issue at hand, funding. These tips cover only the begin- • Can the project be sustained after and how will your organization ad- • ning of the process, but a solid start leads the grant? dress that need? to a successful finish. Happy fundraising! How will you evaluate and report the Which audiences will your project • • progress of your program? serve?

• What unique experiences and quali- Understanding how these questions The Local Historian July/August, 2014 4 The attic storage space of the Georgian Museum. Photo courtesy Housing Heirlooms of the Fairfield Heritage Association. By Tennile Jackson, Collections Assistant, Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum, Clewiston, Florida

Family heirlooms play a significant role acidic and will hasten the deterioration of moisture condensation and encourage mold in preserving and understanding your com- your items. Ideally, storage materials should growth. Instead, textiles can be stored using munity’s history. These treasured items of- be of archival quality, which means that they acid free boxes and tissue. For documents ten require extra care. One of the most im- are chemically stable and are known to be that are handled frequently, consider storing portant things to consider when caring for safe for long-term storage. them in polyester sleeves, which will pre- these objects is their storage environment. When shopping for storage materials vent damage caused by fingerprints and will Improper storage spaces and materials can for your artifacts, look for terms such as keep dirt and pests at bay. Placing a sheet of cause damage that is oftentimes irreversible. acid-free, buffered, or lignin-free. Buffered buffered paper behind the document will Providing appropriate housing for these materials contain calcium carbonate, which neutralize acids being released from the objects in your collection is essential to their helps to neutralize acids released by items paper and prevent further damage. Ad- long-term preservation and should be a top such as paper. Lignin is an acidic com- ditionally, before storing paper documents, priority. ponent of wood that can damage certain remove materials like paper clips, which When scouting for storage locations materials. If you have a penchant for plastic can rust and stain paper, and rubber bands, in your buildings, there are a few areas that storage containers, choose items made of which crumble as they deteriorate. you will want to avoid whenever possible. polyester, polyethylene, and polypropylene. Remember, organization is key. If you Steer clear of areas under pipes and directly These plastics can be identified by their -re have a large number of objects, be sure to on the floor to prevent potential water dam- cycle symbols (4 or PP for polypropylene, 5 organize your items by weight, size, and age from leaks and floods. Wooden shelves or PE for polyethylene). If you are in doubt material. Labeling boxes will prevent the and drawers should also be avoided because about whether a material is safe or not and need for rifling through materials. Taking wood is acidic and can tarnish metals and are having difficulty with identification, a these simple steps will ensure that your cause fabrics to yellow. If wood is your only simple smell test can help. Most harmful collection’s heirlooms are around for years option, line your drawers and shelves with materials release odors when they off-gas, or to come. aluminum foil. The foil will act as a barrier release damaging volatiles. A good example and prevent acids and other harmful sub- of this is the smell when you open new stances emitted by wood from migrating to shower curtains. items and causing discoloration. Be sure to keep in mind that some Once you have found an appropri- archival materials can be harmful to certain ate space, determine the type of housing items. For example, if you have artwork needed for each object. Many people do containing charcoal or pastels, avoid storing not realize that everyday items can threaten them in any kind of plastic container. The the survival of their objects. For example, static electricity from the plastic can lift the traditional file folders, tissue paper, and images from their surfaces. This vanishing cardboard boxes you may be using to store act is sure to leave you both mystified and old photographs, documents, or textiles irritated by the loss of your art. You should can cause a great deal of damage over time. also avoid storing textiles in any plastic These commonly used materials are highly film or container because this can cause

The Local Historian July/August, 2014 5 Take Advantage of the Local History Office’s Services

By Mark Sundlov, Depart- ment Manager, Ohio History Connection’s Local History Office, Columbus One of the many services the Local History Office offers is strategic planning for local groups. Here, the OLHA Board is undergoing its own strategic planning process. Photo courtesy of the Ohio History Connection.

The goal of the Local History Of- with local history. This vital program every Ohio County, and growing, nothing fice of the Ohio History Connection is places ten AmeriCorps members at his- else quite demonstrates Ohio’s pride in straightforward: we are here to help you tory organizations across the state. While its history. We take great pleasure in this help Ohioans connect with our state and these members are graciously hosted by a readily accessible and always available local history. Currently, we are trying to home organization, each service-minded link to Ohio’s past. meet that goal through a number of key member dedicates 50% of their time to Over the past four years, we have services we offer to you. Two of these key organizations outside of their host site. also organized and assisted the Advisory services are the History Fund and our Through this system, the member is able Committee of the Civil War 150 pro- AmeriCorps program. to not only support their host site, but gram, which has participated in countless also to have a regional impact and provide Civil War commemoration events across History Fund! Quite simply, the direct assistance to numerous organiza- the state. History Fund is the premier local history tions. One of the overarching objectives While they do not get nearly as much granting program in the nation – and of the AmeriCorps program is to increase attention as our big programs, we are also it is all for Ohio’s history organizations. the long-term capacity of Ohio’s local very proud and happy to offer an afford- The money that is granted by the History history groups. This means AmeriCorps able Needs Assessment program Fund is provided by generous people like members help to establish programs and and Strategic Planning program. you who donate a part of their tax refund procedures that strengthen the organiza- If you are an organization that wants to and purchase the special Ohio History tion long past the member’s departure, set a new direction or just take a good, mastodon license plate (and some who and members have a proven track record hard look at where you are and where you make direct donations to the History of successfully doing just that. could go, these programs are for you. A Fund). Each year, after the funds have As the program has grown over the Needs Assessment is an intensive, one- accumulated, we accept grant applications past four years and more history organi- day visit by the Local History Office that from Ohio history organizations who are zations have seen the remarkable value provides an assessment of your organiza- requesting a bit of those funds. To evalu- of hosting an AmeriCorps member, the tion and leads your board (and invited ate those requests and to distribute the application process to be a host site has others) through an honest discussion of fund, we put together a statewide team of become more competitive. We encour- your organization. The result of the Needs experts who review the grant applications age you to do a couple of things to take Assessment is a multi-page document that and decide which projects show the most advantage of this program: first, reach out provides our analysis and some guidance promise of success. Once those difficult to the host site in your area and assist in for improvement. The Strategic Planning decisions are made, we distribute the developing a working relationship with program is much more involved than the money at the annual Statehood Day cel- your neighboring AmeriCorps member; Needs Assessment and leads your staff ebration. We have placed special emphasis second, consider applying to become a and board in a multi-month, detailed on making the grant application process host site for the 2015 year. For details, approach to gaining an understanding of accessible to all history organizations. We important dates, and much more on the your organization’s strengths, weaknesses, provide three webinars each summer to AmeriCorps program, visit www.ohiohis- opportunities, and threats. The end result teach people how to best complete the tory.org/local-history-office/americorps is a strategic plan that will guide your or- application. For details, important dates, or call Amy Rohmiller, our AmeriCorps ganization for the next three to five years. and much more on the History Fund, see Program Director at 614.297.2609. For details and more information on these page 8 of this issue, visit www.ohiohistory. Of course, we offer a number of other programs, visit www.ohiohistory.org/ org/historyfund, or call Andy Verhoff, our important programs that help connect local-history-office/lho-services or call History Fund Manager at 614.297.2341. Ohioans to our shared history. One of Mark Sundlov, the Local History Office AmeriCorps! AmeriCorps is another our most visible programs is the Ohio Department Manager at 614.297.2343. of our hallmark programs that is focused Historic Markers Program – with on helping you help Ohioans connect over 1,470 markers, at least one marker in The Local Historian July/August, 2014 6 ANNOUNCEMENTS

Congratulations!

Latest Round of Marker Grants Made This Spring

The Ohio Historical Markers grant committee had yet another round of difficult choices to make. For the five marker grants available, the committee received 20 applications by its April 1 deadline. Alliance First Vice President Beth Weinhardt with After deliberation, the committee is the Junior Division winner of the Alliance’s prize pleased to announce this round’s grant for outstanding History Day projects based on a recipients: local history topic, Ryan Walker. Photo courtesy of the Ohio History Connection. Cincinnati: James Norris Gamble, submitted by Westwood Historical Soci- ety. The marker, scheduled to be dedi- 2014 Ohio History cated August 9, honors the philanthropic Funded in part with a grant from the Ohio Day Winners and civic works of the inventor of Ivory Historical Markers grant program, this marker soap. Gamble served on the Village of in Greenfield for the C.R. Patterson & Sons Company tells the story of the only known On April 28, over 500 students present- Westwood’s council, and as its last mayor guided the community as it was annexed African-American- owned truck and car maker ed exhibits, performances, documentaries, in United States history. Photo courtesy of the papers, and web sites to volunteer judges to Cincinnati in 1896. Ohio History Connection. at Ohio History Day. The National History Cleveland: The Templeton-Bradley Day (NHD) theme for 2013-2014 was Rights Company/Penny Packet Seeds, submit- Baldwin-Wallace College, a Marine Corps and Responsibilities in History. ted by the Detroit Shoreway Community fighter pilot, and most famously, the pilot Two projects were awarded the Ohio Development Organization. The marker of the first fully operational space shuttle Local History Alliance Award for creat- will commemorate the history of a commission in 1982 and the commander of a ing outstanding entries based on a local pany that became one of the nation’s larg- mission of the shuttle Challenger in 1985. history topic, one each in the Junior and est distributors of seeds for school garden Receiving a marker grant is not a pre- Senior divisions. The Junior division winner programs and cultivated generations of requisite to erecting a marker. Ohio Histori- was Ryan Walker, from Norwalk Catholic gardeners. cal Markers are a permanent and relatively School, for his project “Ohio’s Underground Huron: Lake Shore Electric Trail, easy way to share your community’s history Railroad.” The Senior winners were Jacob submitted by Huron Historical Society. with everyone. Voyzey and Josh Podl, from Shaker Heights The marker will relate the history of Lake The next deadline for marker grants is High School, for their project “Ludlow: A Shore Electric Railway, an interurban that October 1. Visit the Remarkable Ohio web- Revolution in Grassroots Integration.” ran between Cleveland and Detroit. A site at www.remarkableohio.org for details The top two projects in each category quick and cheap alternative to the regular and to download an application and price were selected to represent Ohio at National railroad or horse power, the interurban list. History Day. Projects were also honored as became a popular method of travel na- National Alternates, Honorable Mentions, tionwide in the early 20th century. and a series of Special Prizes that are spon- Oberlin: Antoinette Brown Black- sored by state and local organizations. well/First Church of Oberlin, submit- The 61 Ohio finalists competed at ted by the First Church in Oberlin, National History Day at the University of United Church of Christ. The marker Maryland June 15-19, where they competed will chronicle the life of Blackwell, the with other students from across the country, first woman elected to serve as pastor to Puerto Rico, American Samoa, and Depart- a Christian congregation in the U.S. in ment of Defense Schools. Ohio was well- 1853. Rev. Blackwell worshipped and led represented at National History Day. Of the prayer meetings at First Church and was 36 projects, eight placed in the top 14 in a graduate of Oberlin College. the country. Ohio also had one special prize Westlake: Astronaut Robert Frank- winning project and a scholarship winner! lin Overmyer, submitted by the Westlake The full lists of winners for state and na- Historical Society. Scheduled to be dedi- tional history days can be found online cated August 23, this marker commemo- at www.ohiohistoryday.org. rates the life of Overmyer, a graduate of The Local Historian July/August, 2014 7 ANNOUNCEMENTS

Professional Development

Museum Educator Series of Webinars Presented by Creative Learning Factory

The Creative Learning Factory of the Ohio History Connection is pleased to offer another series of webinars specifically for museum professionals. The full series Representatives of Dayton History receive their of ten webinars covers topics that address “big check” at the 2014 Statehood Day. Dayton History attended a History Fund Help webinar and all aspects of museum education, from is a member of the Ohio Local History Alliance. 2014 Alliance Annual developing participatory experiences for Photo courtesy of the Ohio History Connection. Meeting October 3 & 4 visitors, led by Nina Simon of the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History and the History Fund Grant Mark your calendars for the Ohio popular Museum 2.0 blog, to developing Local History Alliance’s 2014 Annual sensory-friendly programming for people Application Available Meeting and Conference, Engage, Edu- on the autism spectrum, to develop- cate, Empower: Taking Your Organization ing new ways to tell the story of African The Local History Office of the Ohio to the Next Level, which will be held at American history by the Ohio History History Connection is happy to announce the Holiday Inn Worthington October Connection’s own Anthony Gibbs. that the application for History Fund 3-4. This year features a great lineup of Upcoming webinars include “Where grants for 2015 is now available! To apply, exciting sessions. Topics covered include Mission Meets Money: Building Entre- visit www.ohiohistory.org/historyfund grantwriting, collections identifica- preneurial Strategies into Your Educa- and click on “History Fund Application.” tion and care, online engagement, and tion Program” by Tim Hoogland of the Applications are due September 3, 2014 programming for teens and youth. In Minnesota Historical Society on July 22. by 11:59 pm. addition, we are again partnering with Tim will discuss strategies the Minnesota To help you with the application the Society of Ohio Archivists, who will Historical Society has used in order to process, we are also hosting “History Fund be offering a full slate of sessions on Fri- create quality educational products that Help” webinars. They are scheduled for day, October 3. All are invited to attend! can make your organization money. On July 16 and August 6 from 10-11:30 am. This year’s meeting features many August 21, Joy King will present “Making Both of the webinars are the same; just fantastic opportunities to network and Your Museum Teacher Ready.” An experi- pick the one that is convenient for you to learn from your colleagues as Speed enced high school teacher, Joy will discuss attend. Networking returns and the popular museum education and outreach from a The webinars are free, but registration sharing time from the Regional Meetings teacher’s perspective, explore strategies is required. The registration deadline is has been added to the Annual Meeting’s for improving the “teacher experience,” the Friday before the webinar you plan to schedule. You can also hear a moving and generate ideas on how to exceed attend. Register online at www.ohiohistory. keynote address on the Kent State shoot- teachers’ expectations before, during, and org/register. (FYI: Five of ten grant re- ings from survivor Alan Canfora on after they participate in your programs. cipients from this year attended last year’s Friday, and leave inspired by the out- You can find the complete schedule webinars, so attendance may give you a standing local history projects from and descriptions for the Museum Educa- “leg up” as you complete your application.) around Ohio at the annual Awards tor Series at www.creativelearningfactory. Grant recipients will be announced Luncheon on Saturday. org/programming/webinars-workshops. at Statehood Day on March 4, 2015. Watch your mail for the Annual Webinars, including previously recorded Have questions? Please call or email Meeting brochure or check http://www. sessions, can be purchased individually, Andy Verhoff at 614.297.2341 ora verhoff ohiohistory.org/local-history-office/pro- for a group of participants within your in- @ohiohistory.org. Good luck! fessional-development/alliance-annual- stitution, or as a full season with a season meeting for more information. pass! For the group rate or season pass, email [email protected].

The Local Historian July/August, 2014 8 ANNOUNCEMENTS MEMBERSHIP Professional List as of June 12, 2014 Development New! Welcome New Member Organization Sandusky County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Fremont Thank you Renewing Members Individual Sustainable Preservation Elizabeth Swartz-Khan, Kent Practices: A Partnership of Organizations Allen County Historical Society, Lima Facilities and Collections Berlin Center Historical Society, Berlin Care Staff Center Betts House Research Center, Cincinnati “An optimal preservation environ- Darke County Historical Society, ment is one that achieves the best possible Greenville preservation of collections with the least New Mastodon License Dover Historical Society, Dover possible consumption of energy, and is Fayette County Historical Society, sustainable over time.” Plate Supports Ohio’s Washington Court House “Optimal practices can yield a 10% Harrison County Historical Society, to 30% reduction in energy costs using History Fund Cadiz existing equipment without risk to long- Hiram Historical Society, Hiram International Women’s Air & Space term collection preservation.” Ohio drivers now have a new choice when it comes to selecting a license plate. Museum, Cleveland Jeremy Linden, Senior Preservation When you buy the new Ohio History Jackson Historical Society, Jackson Environmental Specialist at the Image license plate featuring a mastodon for an Mantua Historical Society, Mantua Miami University Art Museum, Oxford Permanence Institute (https://www.im- additional $30, $20 of your purchase goes Mogadore Historical Society, Inc., agepermanenceinstitute.org), will present directly into Ohio’s History Fund. This Mogadore a one-day workshop that brings facili- matching grant program offered through Morrow County Historical Society, ties and collections care staff together to the Ohio History Connection helps histo- Mount Gilead achieve a shared goal – the best preserva- ry and preservation-related organizations National McKinley Birthplace Memorial tion of collections with the least possible in communities throughout our state pre- Association, Niles consumption of energy, in a program that serve and share Ohio’s past. To learn more Niles Historical Society, Niles is sustainable over time. about the new Ohio History license plate, Northampton Historical Society, The goal of the workshop is to bring visit your local Bureau of Motor Vehicles Cuyahoga Falls Perry Historical Society of Lake County, together facilities and collections care or http://oplates.com/PlateSpecial. Perry staff from cultural heritage organizations Pioneer & Historical Society of as a team, to assist them in understand- Muskingum County, Zanesville ing how they can work together to assure Price Hill Historical Society, Cincinnati preservation quality and energy savings. Randolph Historical Society, Atwater Topics covered will include the role of Reynoldsburg Truro Historical Society, environment in deterioration, the fac- Reynoldsburg tors that shape the storage environment, Ross County Historical Society, best practices for monitoring and data Chillicothe Sandusky Library Follett House analysis, and energy saving opportunities. Museum, Sandusky The program will also include time to talk South Boulevard Historical Society, with colleagues about their individual Cleveland successes and solutions. The Sylvania Area Historical Society, This program will take place at the Sylvania State Library of Ohio on October 21, Treaty of Greenville Bicentennial 2014. Look for registration details com- Commission, Greenville ing soon at http://www.webjunction.org/ Trotwood-Madison Historical Society, partners/ohio/oh-programs/connectcol- Trotwood Warren County Historical Society, lect.html. This project is funded by an Lebanon Institute of Museum and Library Services Washington Township Historical Society (IMLS) Connecting to Collections grant of Stark County, Alliance awarded to the State Library of Ohio. The Local Historian July/August, 2014 9 Join the Ohio Local CALENDAR 2014 On History Alliance... the Web ...or connect a sister organization July 16, August 6 to the Alliance and ask its leaders History Fund Help Webinar. For more to join in one of the following information, see page 8. categories: July 22 Where Mission Meets Money Webinar. For more information, see page 8. Center for Organizational Member August 1 Get six issues of The LocalHistorian, Nomination Deadline, Ohio Local the Future save when you register for our History Alliance Outstanding Achieve- Alliance regional and statewide local ment Awards. For more information, see page 3. of Museums history meetings, receive periodic email August 21 updates, and save on Ohio Historical Blog Making Your Museum Teacher Ready Society services for organization, in- Webinar. For more information, see page 8. cluding speakers and customized train- September 3 ing workshops. Best of all, when you http://futureofmu- Application Deadline, History Fund join the Alliance as an Organizational Grants. For more information, see page 8. seums.blogspot. Member, your membership benefits October 1 all of your organization’s staff and com/ Application Deadline, Ohio Historical members—they will all qualify Marker Grants. For more information, for discounts on registration for see page 7. the Alliance’s regional and statewide This blog is primarily October 3-4 meetings and when buying Alliance Ohio Local History Alliance Annual written by Elizabeth publications. Meeting. For more information, see page 8. Operating budget: October 21 Merritt, the founding Over $200,000 a year: Connecting to Collections Sustainabil- director of the Center for $100 ($190 for 2) ity Workshop. For more information, see page 9. $100,000-$200,000 a year: the Future of Museums, $75 ($140 for 2) an initiative of the Ameri- $25,000-$100,000 a year: Calendar items are chosen on the basis $60 ($110 for 2) of available space and applicability to the largest number of our readers, who can Alliance of Museums. Under $25,000 a year: are mainly volunteer and professional Merritt posts several times $35 ($65 for 2) leaders of local historical societies, history museums, archives, libraries, a week, musing on the Individual Member historic preservation groups, and genealogical societies in Ohio. We cannot future role of museums Get six issues of The LocalHistorian , include events mainly of local interest; save when you register for our Alliance for these we suggest local newspa- in society. She covers inno- regional and statewide local history pers, broadcast media, Ohio Magazine, vative programs, technol- meetings, receive periodic email 1-800-BUCKEYE, and, if arts related, updates. www.ArtsinOhio.com. ogy trends, sustainability, Affiliate: $35 a year ($65 for 2) and other issues to get Individual: $50 a year ($90 for 2) Student: $20 a year you inspired and thinking. Business Member $100 a year ($190 for 2)

Join at http://www.ohiohistorystore. com/Ohio-LHA-formerly-OAHSM- C120.aspx

The Local Historian July/August, 2014 10 News from Region 4 Region 8 Ashtabula, Geauga, Mahoning, Portage, Adams, Brown, Butler, Clermont, Clinton, the Regions and Trumbull Counties Hamilton, Highland, and Warren Counties TheJohn Stark Edwards House Museum in conjunction with the History Department at Region 9 Youngstown State University (YSU) opened Athens, Gallia, Hocking, Jackson, Region 1 a new exhibit, To Each Community its Own: Lawrence, Meigs, Pike, Ross, Scioto, Allen, Defiance, Fulton, Hancock, Hardin, The Development of Educational Systems in and Vinton Counties Henry, Lucas, Putnam, Van Wert, Williams, Trumbull County. YSU students researched and Wood Counties three areas of Trumbull County to compare Shawnee State University’s Digital History TheToledo Area Metroparks hope to open schools in small, medium, and large locations. Lab has created a website, Scioto Historical, the Fallen Timbers Battlefield to the public in The students also wrote the text and placed the that lets the public explore the people, places, 2014. Plans for parking, interpretive signage, photographs and artifacts. To learn more, go and moments that have shaped the history of trails, and facilities are in the works with input to www.trumbullcountyhistory.org. Scioto County in south-central Ohio. Visitors from the Fallen Timbers Battlefield Preser- to the site can learn about the region through vation Commission. Passage of a levy in 2012 Region 5 layered, map-based multimedia presentations, enabled the park to begin planning. Though use social media to share their stories, and weather and construction issues may delay Carroll, Columbiana, Harrison, Holmes, experience curated driving and walking tours. progress, the park could be open as early as Jefferson, Stark, Tuscarawas, and Wayne To view all ten tours and 82 stories, visit the August 20, 2014, the 220th anniversary of the Counties site at http://sciotohistorical.org. battle. For more information, visit http://www. The Smithsonian’s traveling exhibitChanging metroparkstoledo.com/metro/parksandplaces/ America will find its temporary home at the Region 10 index.asp?page_id=516. Constitution Center in Louisville this summer. Belmont, Coshocton, Guernsey, Monroe, Changing America commemorates the Eman- Morgan, Muskingum, Noble, and cipation Proclamation in 1863 and the March Washington Counties Region 2 on Washington in 1963, highlighting the Ashland, Crawford, Erie, Huron, Marion, effect these two events had on our country’s Morrow, Ottawa, Richland, Sandusky, history. TheLouisville Public Library and In 100 words or less, do you have outstanding Seneca, and Wyandot Counties the Louisville Nimishillen Historical Society news to share about your organization? Please were awarded a grant from the National email it to your regional representative for Region 3 Endowment for the Humanities. They, along the next issue of The Local Historian. Contact with the Smithsonian’s National Museum of information for the representatives in your Cuyahoga, Lake, Lorain, Medina, and African American History & Culture, the region is on page 2 of this issue. Of course, you Summit Counties National Museum of American History, and are welcome to forward your news directly to TheBedford Historical Society announced the American Library Association Public the editor of The Local Historian at arohm- the launch of Blue Star Museums, a collabora- Programs Office, are bringing this exhibit to [email protected]. Rather than serving as tion among the National Endowment for the Northeast Ohio. For more information, visit a calendar of events, items for “News from the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department www.louisvillelibrary.org. Regions” are chosen to inspire, connect, and of Defense, and more than 2,000 museums Region 6 educate the Alliance’s members all over Ohio across America. The program offers free and celebrate notable and imitation-worthy admission to the nation’s active duty military Delaware, Fairfield, Fayette, Franklin, Knox, accomplishments of Alliance members. personnel from Memorial Day through Labor Licking, Madison, Perry, Pickaway, and Day 2014. It provides families an opportunity Union Counties to enjoy the nation’s cultural heritage and to learn more about their new communities after Region 7 a military move. Leadership support has been provided by MetLife Foundation through Auglaize, Champaign, Clark, Darke, Blue Star Families. A complete list of partici- Greene, Logan, Mercer, Miami, pating museums is available at http://arts. Montgomery, Preble, and Shelby Counties gov/national/blue-star-museums. Learn more TheBradford, Ohio Railroad Museum is about the Bedford Historical Society at www. working with Exhibit Concepts Inc. to design, bedfordohiohistory.org. construct, and install permanent exhibits that interpret 130 years of railroad history at TheCuyahoga County Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Bradford Junction. The exhibits will highlight Monument has announced a flag collection the birth of the town in the days of wood pow- program that began on Saturday, June 14 (Flag ered locomotives through the diesel era. They Day) and will continue through Labor Day, will include information on the changes in September 1. The public is invited to drop off technology that transformed communication flags at the Monument that are worn or faded from telegraphs to radios to telephones. The to the point where they are no longer fit to project is being supported through the State display. The Monument’s Commission is part- of Ohio’s capital appropriation process. More nering with local veterans’ groups to ensure information can be found at www.bradford- that the collected flags will be properly and museum.org. respectfully disposed of. For more information, go to www.soldiersandsailors.com. The Local Historian July/August, 2014 11 PEOPLE IN THE NEWS

Classic Restaurants of Youngstown, Tammi Mackey-Shrum is the new Kelly Falcone-Hall has been named published by the History Press in director of the Dover Historical the Chief Executive Officer of the April, was authored by Thomas G. Society. Previously, she served as Western Reserve Historical Soci- Welsh and Gordon F. Morgan. Clas- the site manager at the Fort Laurens ety. She had previously been serv- sic Restaurants provides an histori- State Memorial and has worked with ing as the organization’s interim cal overview of the city’s restaurant the Dennison Railroad Depot Muse- CEO. Falcone-Hall has been with the industry, moving from 1945 to the um. Mackey-Shrum has a bachelor’s organization in a variety of positions present. While the book describes degree from Kent State University since 1995, including Director of the manner in which trends like and a master’s degree in history from Interpretation and Vice President of suburbanization and deindustrializa- the University of Akron. In 2013, she Hale Farm & Village, Vice President tion contributed to the decline of the was named Emerging Professional for Institutional Advancement, and city’s restaurant industry, it also calls of the Year by the Ohio Museums Chief Operating Officer . attention to establishments that have Association. served as symbols of continuity in changing neighborhoods. The book was produced in partnership with the Mahoning Valley Historical Society, which provided historical images as well as access to menus, advertisements, and other materials related to the local restaurant industry.

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Mark Sundlov Andy Verhoff Amy Rohmiller Department Manager History Fund Grant Manager Program Coordinator [email protected] and Ohio Historical Marker Local History, AmeriCorps, (614) 297-2343 Coordinator CW150 [email protected] [email protected] (614) 297-2341 (614) 297-2609

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