Abstract:
This study describes and analyzes Oregon Trail related
exhibits of eleven museums and two interpretive centers
that are geographically located along the Oregon Trail
from Baker City, Oregon to Portland, Oregon. The exhibits
were featured at the facilities during the 1993 Oregon
Trail Sesquicentennial, a celebration that was initiated
and organized by the state of Oregon. The context of the
Sesquicentennial and the geographical feature of all
facilities located on or near the trail provided a unique
opportunity to investigate the influences upon and
development of exhibits with a common theme, as well as
their reaction to a major state celebration promoting
"heritage tourism." Out of a total of thirteen
facilities, I viewed ten personally. I also asked
questions of the curators or directors regarding the
exhibit and its development.
Especially of note in this study was the exhibits'
content on themes prominent in western American history
and the possible influences upon their interpretation. I
found exhibits to range from very contemporary depictions
of the Oregon Trail experience, with an emphasis upon the
complexity of issues the predominantly Euro-American trek
created and reflected, to traditional interpretations
focused exclusively upon uncritical regard and reverence
for the emigrants and their journey. American Association
of Museums (AAM) standards condone diversity in all
aspects of museums, including exhibits. Those museums
with more contemporary than traditional depictions better
fit the AAM guidelines, and often used the Oregon Trail
exhibit within a larger theme. I found the influences
upon the interpretations were the institutional goals,
funding, exhibit development methods, and the internal
initiative of staff and volunteers. The two interpretive
centers in the sample had similar influences, although
their role was more focused than museums upon benefiting
the local economy.
The 1993 Sesquicentennial stimulated most museums to
create or add to an Oregon Trail exhibit, but did not
directly affect interpretations. Sesquicentennial
agencies played a general organizational and supportive
role.
