Susan- I appreciate your comments and I agree with you. I was not saying that authentic and real historical places, homes, or buildings could not be positive experiences or fun. (The gist of the conversation thread was a bit narrower than the issues you brought up) Nevertheless, I believe learning can be fun. I was referring to commercial enterprizes that use history as a veneer for respectibility or gain, yet do not contribute to an accurate overall historical understanding or context. Anyone can experience anything- the question is - what was taught and learned. How something is accomplished is important also. Arlyn ---------- From: Susan M. Ward[SMTP:[log in to unmask]] Sent: Thursday, August 14, 1997 8:37 AM To: [log in to unmask] Subject: museum experience >>Arlyn Danielson wrote: It would not be accurate to characterize Mount Vernon, Monticello, or Louisiana plantation homes as merely an historical "experience." I understand what you mean by that, however, these are actual homes with genuine artifacts in them. They are part of real history. By visiting one of these places, you will definitely get a feel of what it was like to live in the featured time period of the property, and a better appreciation of history and historical contexts. Mere "experiences" (something more fun focused than anything else in my opinion) include Disneyland, the Polynesian Cultural Center in Hawaii, and the like.<< I admit I missed the beginning of this thread, but I contend that it's a positive attribute when museums focus on the "experience." The dictionary says an experience is "observing, encountering, or undergoing events," and "the knowledge or practical wisdom gained from this process." What more could any museum wish for?! (And what's wrong with having "fun" in a museum anyway?) :-) Museums that consider the visitor "experience" tend to have a broader view of what happens when a visitor is on site. They look at the visitor "package" of parking, hospitality, signage, exhibits, programs, rest rooms, and opportunities for social interaction, as all being integral parts of the complete visit. The one thing that *everyone* takes away with them from a museum visit is "an experience." Just think what visitors would say if museums gave everyone "merely" a superb experience! :-) Susan M. Ward Heritage Communications 615-661-6336 phone, 615-371-8774 fax [log in to unmask]