American Association for State and Local History

American Association for State and Local History is a national organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the history of United States, with a focus on state history and local history. Founded in 1940, the organization has been a leading voice in the field of public history, working closely with institutions such as the National Archives and Records Administration, Library of Congress, and National Park Service. The organization's efforts have been recognized by prominent historians, including David McCullough, Doris Kearns Goodwin, and James M. McPherson, who have all emphasized the importance of preserving American heritage.

History

The organization was established in 1940, with the goal of supporting and promoting the work of state historical societies, local historical societies, and other organizations dedicated to preserving American history. Over the years, the organization has worked with notable historians, such as Arthur Schlesinger Jr., C. Vann Woodward, and Shelby Foote, to advance the field of historical preservation. The organization has also collaborated with institutions like the Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of American History, and United States Holocaust Memorial Museum to develop programs and resources for history education and cultural preservation. Additionally, the organization has partnered with National Endowment for the Humanities, National Endowment for the Arts, and Institute of Museum and Library Services to support historical research and museum development.

Mission and activities

The organization's mission is to provide leadership, service, and support for state and local history organizations, with a focus on historical preservation, education, and community engagement. The organization achieves this mission through a range of activities, including conferences and workshops, such as the annual American Historical Association meeting and the Organization of American Historians conference. The organization also provides resources and support for historical societies, museums, and historic preservation organizations, such as the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Preservation Society of Newport County. Furthermore, the organization collaborates with National Council on Public History, Society for History in the Federal Government, and American Society for Environmental History to promote public history and environmental history.

Publications and resources

The organization publishes a range of publications, including the History News magazine, which features articles on historical preservation, museum management, and community engagement. The organization also produces technical leaflets and guides on topics such as collections management, exhibition design, and fundraising, in collaboration with organizations like the American Alliance of Museums and the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Additionally, the organization provides online resources, including webinars and podcasts, on topics such as digital history, oral history, and historic preservation, featuring experts from institutions like the Library of Congress, National Archives and Records Administration, and United States National Archives.

Awards and recognition

The organization presents several awards each year, including the Leadership in History Awards, which recognize outstanding achievements in historical preservation, education, and community engagement. The organization also presents the Albert B. Corey Award, which honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of state and local history. Recipients of these awards have included notable historians, such as Eric Foner, Linda Gordon, and Nell Irvin Painter, as well as institutions like the National Museum of African American History and Culture, United States National Museum of the American Indian, and Japanese American National Museum. The organization's awards have been recognized by prominent organizations, including the National Endowment for the Humanities, National Endowment for the Arts, and American Historical Association.

Governance and membership

The organization is governed by a board of directors, which includes representatives from state historical societies, local historical societies, and other organizations dedicated to preserving American history. The organization has a diverse membership, which includes historians, museum professionals, preservationists, and community leaders from across the United States. Members of the organization have access to a range of benefits, including professional development opportunities, networking events, and discounts on publications and resources. The organization also collaborates with National Council on Public History, Society for History in the Federal Government, and American Society for Environmental History to promote public history and environmental history, and has partnerships with institutions like the Smithsonian Institution, National Archives and Records Administration, and Library of Congress. Category:Historical preservation organizations