We Worked Here: an Interpretive Plan for the Thomas Kay Woolen Mill in Salem, OR

Loading...
Thumbnail Image

Date

2009-06

Authors

Mauro, Jeremy T., 1974-

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

University of Oregon

Abstract

While the field of historic preservation has successfully preserved numerous significant buildings and sites throughout the United States, the field would benefit from stronger interpretation of these resources. Because many of the preserved buildings and sites function as public destinations, interpretation has the opportunity to provoke new learning experiences. In this project I examined the Thomas Kay Woolen Mill as a case study for interpretive methods of industrial historic architecture. Through reviewing current interpretive methods, describing a broad historical context, conducting interviews with Salem residents who took part in the work at the mill between the 1930s and the 1960s, and researching specific mill workers' housing in Salem, I found that the inclusion of human stories can benefit the interpretation of the architecture. By offering a specific human narrative against the background of a wider history, an exhibit can challenge the visitor to see the building in a new way.

Description

xiii, 124 p. : ill. (some col.), maps. A print copy of this thesis is available through the UO Libraries. Search the library catalog for the location and call number.

Keywords

Historic industrial sites -- Oregon -- Salem, Thomas Kay Woolen Mill (Salem, Or.), Historic sites -- Interpretive programs -- Oregon -- Salem

Citation