Introduction

Historic sites and house museums connect communities with their pasts. They represent a wide range of historic time periods, people and events. Many are small, with limited professional staff, or are entirely volunteer run. Some have extremely small spaces, while others include vast landscapes, both of which can be challenging to navigate. Budgets are often tight and access to technology is limited.

Yet, all historic sites are responsible for preserving, uncovering and sharing complex stories in ways that are accessible to all. This project aims to develop tools to help sites and museums achieve this goal, no matter their size, space or resources. Too often, visitors—especially those with disabilities—encounter physical, communication or sensory barriers.

We invite you to explore these five installations and tell us what you think. Your input will guide our next steps.

Scan the QR code below to access exhibit information and a brief survey to gather your feedback. You can also record your responses on the digital kiosks located by the steam catapult or fill out a paper survey.

Acknowledgements

This project and the BYOAD project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, IMLS grant number CAGML-247144-OMLS-20.

Making History Accessible is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and the New York State Legislature.

The BYOAD project is also made possible in part by the Harry S. and Allon Fuller Fund, Bank of America, N.A., Trustee