>Posted to :     H-Net Military History Discussion List
>                <[log in to unmask]>
>Date: Thu, 13 Jul 95 08:41:54 EST
>From: "Cronin, Clare C." <ccronin%ushmm.org>
>
>>  The Enola Gay controversy reflects an ongoing
>>        discussion in the museum community today, which is
>>        the role museums can/should/would play as
>>        educators.  Some believe that museums should
>>        merely display collections and let audiences draw
>>        their own conclusions, others believe that objects
>>        must be interpreted.  Traditionally, museums are
>>        not regarded as being "academic," and I would be
>>        interested in hearing opinions on the
>>        can/should/would question.
>
>I've always thought that history and science museums should interpret the
>exhibits they display.  Without interpretation, the gallery becomes a room
>full of antiques (minerals, etc.) gathered in one place.  I can see how art
>in museums can stand on their own, though it's always nice to learn about the
>artists. Or historic homes and arboritums can be appreciated just by being
>there.  But with the Air and Space Museum - just a gathering of old aircraft
>without any explanation?  How DO others feel about this?
>
>Deb Baroff, Museum of the Great Plains  Lawton  OK

I have never been offended by information

Kris Wetterlund, Director of Education, Minnesota Museum of American Art,
St. Paul, Minnesota