the Association for Living History, Farm and Agricultural Museums
Real Work for a Real Purpose: ALHFAM FARM Professional Interest Group Launches New Workshops in 2026 The ALHFAM FARM Professional Interest Group (PIG) is launching a multi-year initiative to fulfill the operative phrase of the ALHFAM mission statement: Sharing practical knowledge and skills. Besides a lineup of workshops and sessions for the annual conferences, we… Continue reading ALHFAM FARM PIG Launches New Workshops in 2026
“From the President’s Pen” An unexpected weather change brought gloriously cooler temperatures to the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States in late August. Like flipping a switch, the air became crisper, the shadows cast by a sun lower in sky become longer, and the sky a richer blue. Miraculously, fall seems to have arrived early… Continue reading ALHFAM President’s Fall 2025 Message
When we first started talking about the U.S. Semiquincentennial a few years ago, many of us expected a top-down roadmap: a coordinated, well-funded national vision that would cascade down to local museums and historic sites. But the reality of 250th planning has been very different. This anniversary is being shaped not by grand commissions or… Continue reading 250th Spark: Grassroots Power in a Time of Uncertainty
In 1775, two lanterns in Boston’s Old North Church signaled the start of a revolution. Now, 250 years later, museums and byways across the country have a chance to bring that spirit to life through “Two Lights for Tomorrow.” (You can learn more about Two Lights for Tomorrow here; although this link is for Virginia,… Continue reading 250th Spark: Two Lights for Tomorrow Kicks off 250th Celebration Next Month
Hello ALHFAMily, In some ways, it is hard for me to believe we are already two-thirds through the first quarter of 2025. It has been a very busy two months for the ALHFAM Board of Directors. The Committee on Organizational Partnerships (COOP) has been in conversations with board members of EXARC about the possibility of… Continue reading President’s Message Feb 2025
By Sarah Hoenig Bread is a staple at Fort Nisqually Living History Museum’s period kitchen, representing one of the many food traditions in this globally connected community. But when it comes to recreating authentic bread from the 1850s, the type of leavening agent used—whether sourdough, hops, or salt-rising starter—can be surprisingly elusive. With the popularity of… Continue reading Yeast & Bread at Fort Nisqually in the 1850s: Unpacking the Mystery of Bread Leavening
As a member of the Association for Living History, Farm and Agricultural Museums (ALHFAM), I’m excited to share the latest development that promises to inspire creativity and collaboration within our community: the formation of the Arts and Culture Professional Interest Group (PIG). The conversation I facilitated during the 2024 virtual conference sparked a lot of… Continue reading Launching the Cultured Professional Interest Group (PIG) at ALHFAM: A New Adventure in Arts, Culture, and Collaboration
Heritage travelers aren’t just looking for a single-site visit — they want an experience. According to a 2023 Travel Trends report, 97% of travelers said they want to experience the local heritage and culture of a town. In particular, they want to try the local cuisine (70%), see the sites (67%), learn about history (58%),… Continue reading 250th Spark: The Great American Road Trip: A Powerful Tourism Strategy for America’s 250th
Research shows that exploration and learning are top motivators for heritage travelers, who actively seek authentic and meaningful experiences year-round. To keep visitors coming back throughout the year, consider refreshing how you tell your story every few months—or more frequently, if possible. Regular updates not only encourage repeat visits from your local community but also ensure your site feels vibrant, dynamic, and engaging for all.
As the 250th anniversary of America’s founding approaches, museums and other heritage destinations have a unique opportunity to come together and create unforgettable experiences for visitors. This milestone offers not just a celebration of history, but a chance to deepen collaboration across sectors, amplify shared stories, and strengthen communities through meaningful partnerships. Here’s how museums,… Continue reading 250th Spark: Collaborating Across Heritage Sectors
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