The Great House Museum Conundrum: Is Historic Preservation Interpretation The Answer?

        Since the founding of the Mt. Vernon Ladies Association in 1857, the United States has
experienced a proliferation of house museums, many of which are no longer sustainable in the
current socio-economic climate. Many experts are encouraging existing house museums to
expand there interpretation beyond the traditional decorative arts tour in hopes that they can
avoid closing their doors forever. In an effort to survive in the crowded field of domestic
interpretation, some house museums have heeded this warning. They have already expanded
their mission by incorporating historic preservation into their regular tours, creating historic
preservation programming, and seeking media and public support for their historic preservation
related activities. In doing so, they have attracted a larger audience, increased their fundraising
potential, and enhanced the public‘s understanding of preservation issues.
        This report will focus on Drayton Hall in Charleston, South Carolina; Bellamy Mansion
and Slave Quarters in Wilmington, North Carolina; Riversdale Mansion is Riverdale Park,
Maryland, and the Historic House Museums of the Montgomery County Historical Society in
Rockville and Germantown, Maryland. Each of these sites faces unique challenges. Some
already reap distinct benefits in making historic preservation an important aspect of their visitor
experience while others are not using historic preservation to their fullest advantage. While they
all share a common philosophy, each is at a different developmental stage in creating tours,
programs, and marketing materials that reflect the importance of historic preservation. By
studying these sites, we stand to gain a better understanding of how other house museums may
benefit.

Images/Documents

The Great House Museum Conundrum.pdf