I personally can see no reason why archives and museums can't get along as
equals. They are each in the field of historic preservation and public
education.

The only difference I see is that archives deal in two dimensional artifacts
and oral history (for lack of a better term at the moment for their recorded
items) and museums work mainly in a three dimensional environment. And by
sharing their expertise in each field, they are able to do some very good
work that compliments the work the other is doing.

When I designed the Arkansas Country Doctor Museum in Lincoln, Arkansas part
of the original plan was to include an archive of doctor's records and
papers that could be use to enhance exhibits and as research tools for
scholars. And the archive was to be a co-equal member of the establishment.
I do not know how well the project has gotten on, I've since moved halfway
across the country and failed to stay in touch as much as I should have.

So I don't see a problem between the two unless it's in their management not
willing to be flexible and work together and share resources. So I think
that's the problem you're seeing, not that they're able to mesh.

Thomas E. (Pete) Jordon
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