Interpreting the Legacy of Women’s Suffrage at Museums and Historic Sites

Interpreting the Legacy of Women’s Suffrage at Museums and Historic Sites is an invaluable guide for public historians and site practitioners who are responsible for interpretation and education. The book begins with an expanded chronology linking suffrage to the broader national history of voting rights in America. This section brings to light more information on not only well known players such as Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton, but also examines the crossover and interactions between the abolition and temperance movements, and also lays the groundwork for sites to explore an expanded and thoughtful narrative that will inspire a shared dialog leaving room for new ideas and perspectives around diversity, intersectionality, and equality.

A series of case studies and in depth interviews with practitioners share practical examples of women’s history sites who embarked on the challenging task of reexamining their historical interpretation through a 21st Century lens with a focus of addressing the racial bias within. These also showcase highly effective interpretation methods, exhibits, and public programs that can be models for best practices, and replicated at other sites that plan to offer programs around the rich content of the Centennial of Suffrage. A guide to Facilitation and Discussion methods around difficult topics will also offer practitioner’s guidance and resources on how to navigate through the politically divisive rhetoric and strike the right tone for individual historic sites, museums, and communities.