The Role of Museums in Good History Teaching— Since the 18th century, western societies have enshrined their past in museums. Originally developed as cabinets of curiosity or cabinets of wonder (Wunderkammer) containing all manner of odd things (unicorns' horns beside geodes beside a preserved head of a monstrous calf), collections by the later 18th century took on regional and eventually national significance.

One of the reasons they did so was because they provided what came to be known as "object lesson history." Objects bring history alive in a way that words on a page or even pictures (static or moving) cannot. And even better, if students get to participate in activities, lasting impressions are formed.

Thus we have endeavored to partner with — or at least visit — numerous living history museums which preserve, interpret and promote the past and its technologies.

You may also want to consult our State by State guide to historic museums and properties.

Ephrata Cloister

Saugus Iron Works

Centre Furnace/Centre County Historical Society

Hopewell Furnace

National Park Service/ Teaching with Historic Places