David,
I work for the Coos County Historical Society, which runs what's now called the Coos History Museum. It's had several different names over the past few years, as we all (me included) have tripped over the idea of how to present ourselves. It's been confusing to the public: whenever I'm introduced to a group, without exception the person introducing me stumbles over the name of the place I work.
We knew we didn't want to present ourselves as the Coos County Historical Society, except in legal documents, but there were those among the stakeholders who thought the word "historical" -- and even the word "museum" -- were too stodgy.
The argument about historical went like this: One of the chief meanings of historical, especially the public’s understanding of the word, is “belonging to the past, not the present.” This is in opposition to the word “history” when it’s used as an adjective, which means (self-reflexively enough) “a present-day endeavor taking on the subject of history.”
At a board board meeting a year ago, a lively and robust discussion ensued, at which the board also took up the topic of “museum” versus “center” -- with advocates on both sides. (So the vote was either Coos History Museum, or Coos History Center.)
Those favoring “center” argued persuasively that that word is more inclusive: people would assume that a wider variety of things happen at a center than at a museum. In addition, the word museum can carry a stuffy connotation with some of the public.
Those favoring “museum” argued that we are, in fact, a museum, and that being a museum is an interesting and honorable thing to be; that it is less confusing for travelers who would have an instant idea of what we would offer them (a center might be a business center, an events center, even a rehab center); and, that a museum is a civic institution and a public convening space, like a library, or a city hall — that is, both our locals and our potential visitors from across the land would know immediately that they are allowed inside any hour that the museum is open.
After a discussion lasting the better part of an hour, in which every board member was polled not only for his or her vote, but for his or her reasons, the board put the matter to a vote. Museum was favored by a significant margin. So we are the Coos History Museum.
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Frank Smoot
Executive Director
Coos Historical & Maritime Center
Coos Bay OR
Original Message:
Sent: 04-29-2016 03:15 PM
From: David Beard
Subject: What's In A Name?
I am sure this has been discussed in other forums, perhaps even here, but I am looking for input on institutions that have changed their name while re-branding for a new age. In particular, I am looking for institutions that used to have "Historical Society" in their name, but have evolved into something more relevant to younger stake holders.
In my mind, and in the minds of people I discuss this with, the very term "historical Society" conjures up visions of blue-haired old ladies (no offense intended), stodgy members and a socially exclusive membership. This is decidedly a turn-off for many people.
Our museum is overseen by an historical society that also maintains a historic home. I have asked visitors if they would like to become members of the "Historical Society" and they show little interest. When asked if they would like to become a member of the Museum, they are more interested.
I would like to convince my board that the long-term health of our institution may well lie in re-branding and name change. Any thoughts or experiences here"?
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David Beard
Director
Museum of the Gulf Coast
Port Arthur TX
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