Decoding our History

Today our class made a trip to the Center for History to help gain insight on Indiana's history as well as the Midwest.  I have always loved going to museums and researching our past. I really enjoyed the fact that the museum had locally discovered artifacts that provided information about our past as a place/region.

Upon searching around the museum, I began to see the 5 themes of geography represented.  We discussed the Native Americans in our region, how transportation has changed (movement), and how farming has been a key source of income for the Midwest for centuries (region, human environment-interaction).

I felt that the museum did not supply me with enough information about slavery and African Americans in the Midwest.  I have always been interested in the topic, but felt like it was left out at the museum.  I am aware that slavery was not prominant in the north, but I would like to know how immigrants were treated. I also would have liked to know more about children's roles in Indiana's history. What age did the typically stop attending schools? I saw one picture of children working in a mill in Indiana. Was child labor something that was seen often in the midwest?

One exhibit that I found highly interesting was the Civil War exhibit. I have always found the Civil War fascinating and enjoyed looking at artifacts such as the weapons, drums, and clothing. I feel that visiting museums is a great way for students (and adults) to better understand history.  Being able to see actual items helps students relate to history more. It makes it real to those in the present. In the future, I hope to bring in artifacts for my students and visit historical locations to help aid their learning.

**All images taken at Center for History, South Bend, Indiana.