The postindustrial economy compels many communities to face a turning point in the way they interpret their history and reimagine their civic identity. Although some communities have made progress in addressing this urgent need, celebratory portrayals of the industrial past often still pay inadequate attention to deindustrialization and its social consequences. The role of women and minorities in the industrial past is still frequently underrepresented. Communities’ attempts to redefine themselves in the new economy often are not adequately rooted in an understanding of the broad historical arc of industrialization and deindustrialization. This working group will examine these issues and produce a best practices manual for public historical practice in postindustrial communities. You can access the group’s case statements via this page.
Facilitator: Martin V. Minner, Dimension History
Participants: Emiliano Aguilar, University of Notre Dame
Sarah Buchmeier, Lowell National Historical Park, National Park Service
Kevin Coffee, retired, Lowell National Historical Park, National Park Service
Fayge Horesh, D Listers of History
Carolee Kokola, Packingtown Museum
Kirsten Paine, Rivers of Steel National Heritage Corporation
Paul Ringel, High Point University
Gregory Wilson, University of Akron