Objects without a narrative are simply things. By contrast, an object with a story can be used as a vehicle to understand the people of that time period, how they lived their lives, and what social aspects influenced them. The story of an object, what makes it different from hundreds of others just like it, can change it from ordinary to extraordinary.
By examining, researching, and exploring ten objects from the collection of the Genesee Country Village & Museum, a 19th century living history village in Western New York, this project will demonstrate the importance of using narrative and storytelling in museums. Through the stories of these ten objects, and the context in which they existed, a bridge can be forged to connect the past and the present. The GCV&M has many beautiful items in near perfect condition. The purpose of this study, however, was to discover the hidden stories of objects. Although some artifacts may be in poor condition it is the story that makes them invaluable.
These case studies show the power that storytelling can have on what might otherwise be a mundane object. These artifacts, most of which had no known history, only a single name attached, were researched until the pieces of the puzzle came together to form a complete picture. These stories can be used to bring one closer to a past that seems so far away. Narrative brings to life these often long forgotten people to see how their stories might mirror our own.
The Genesee Country Village & Museum is located in Mumford, New York. The campus includes 67 historic structures separated into three distinct time periods ranging from about 1790-1910. There are a wealth of special events, children’s programs, and a large variety of interpreters and historical tradespeople. The campus holds a gallery, meeting center, nature center, gift shop and eatery. For more information on all the GCV&M has to offer please visit https://www.gcv.org/
The 10 Objects website and all content compiled and created by Jill Poppenheimer Johnson