In article <[log in to unmask]>,
  "Christopher D. Geist" <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
>
> This is a most interesting topic.  I hope those who respond will do so to
> the list and not, as Jay suggests, off-line.  We might all profit from this
> discussion.  Thanks!
>
> ****************************************
>
> Christopher D. Geist, Professor              Phone:  419-372-7860
> Department of Popular Culture                FAX:    419-372-2577
> Bowling Green State University
> Bowling Green, OH  43403
Since you asked:
So, if you have any information, or wish to share a story about your
experiences with this topic, please respond off-line to
<[log in to unmask]>.  Your response is appreciated.

Jay Smith
Executive Director
Reno County Museum
Hutchinson, Kansas


Mr. Smith,

  I am not a museum professional, however perhaps I can give you some
perspective from the point of view of the  Living Historian  (as opposed
of course to that of the  Dead Historian ).  I ve been a living history
volunteer with De Soto National Memorial for a number of years now.  As
the 16th century  re-enactment community is tiny (even in La Florida),
especially as compared to say American Civil War re-enactors, the members
of my group and I, seem to be in great demand.  In that time I ve
received, and accepted, numerous invitations to appear at  traditional
museums  throughout the state of Florida.  Some of these are theme events
like  Spanish Treasure  or  Inca Gold  others are more general history
timelines dealing with either local or state history where the presence
of conquistador types seems logical.  Occasionally,  I will find myself
where the need for a guy in armor is tenuous at best.  A recent
appearance at a state museum during a  Cigar Fest  comes directly to
mind.  Hispanic Heritage maybe? The guy at the beer tent filled my mug
for free so I can t  complain too much.

  Although there are numerous re-enactor & museum horror stories out
there, ( always a favorite around the campfire or on USENET s
soc.history.living newsgroup) I m afraid that I don t have any from
personal experience.  I would expect that museum community has its own
versions of the same stories, which might be interesting to hear.

  Most of the museum personal that I have met,  have been eager and
willing to help make things run smoothly.  I try whenever possible to
check out the site prior to the visit with the person in charge.  From
the stories I ve heard most problems between living history interpreters
and traditional museums seem to stem from a lack of understanding of what
is expected of either party.  Some pre-planning items that I m sure to
check on that often don t occur to event planners, until its way too
late:

Has the irrigation system been turned off? Where are the irrigation
lines?  A tent stake in the right spot can lend itself to a source of
amusement for the crowd. Has law enforcement personal been informed to
expect musket/cannon fire?  Needed permits filed? Can we dig holes for a
fire pit?  Re-enactors tend to follow the,  Its easier to ask for
forgiveness than get permission,  rule.  Be forewarned. This is
especially fun on archaeological sights. When can we set up?  When do we
have to be gone? Do you need photos for publicity/press kits?
Loading/unloading?  If you have a truck full of stuff the need to be able
to drive directly to the set up spot or at least have a cart handy.
There s more but you get the idea.

Most of the time I find myself  putting small children in armor, always a
favorite of parents and news photographers.  Sometimes demonstrating
Spanish weapons or other equipment or period crafts.  That s what the
 living history  thing is supposed to be about.  But every
once-in-a-while I find myself invited to a museum soiree where I m
attempting to elegantly sip wine and eat cheese while wearing a steel
gauntlet.  Awkward at best.  I m sure all the donor types enjoy the
 color  but I always feel out-of-place.

Honorariums are always appreciated, especally if you have to travel out
of town.  A little thing that means a lot is thank you notes.  A simple
acknowledgment that you efforts re appreciated can make a real difference
in one s desire to return to a site, especially since honorariums rarely
cover your expenses.  Also send relevant press clippings & news letters.
Well, I ve probably rambled on too long but if you have specific
questions I ll do my best to answer them.

Sincerely,

Timothy Burke

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