By JENNA MEAD

STAFF WRITER

What began as a question has turned into a true opportunity. At the beginning of the semester, my former professor asked me if I would be interested in helping out a local historian. Having taken the Public History course with an internship last semester, and enjoying the experience I was excited to take on the task. I began interning in DeKalb a few weeks into the semester. My assignment was to build an exhibit in the front of the DeKalb Historical Association housed in the Old Meeting House Museum. The focus of the exhibit was the building itself, which has undergone a series of renovations and refurbishments. Built in 1839, the church served as a central meeting place for the people of DeKalb during the 19th century.

As I researched and shaped the presentation of the displays, I was struck by the reality of history. With the modern tendency to fast forward and continuously think about what is next, the rich history of the very places we live and learn in can be ignored. The stories that are retained in the walls of old buildings will not tell themselves. Instead, we must seek out this information, and it is worth it. The conversations I have had with the town historian, Bryan Thompson, have brought an appreciation for the past that I cannot say I have ever had before. This gratefulness has grounded my everyday life. The worries of summer planning and future careers can be muted for a gratifying look back.

Returning to reality, I am better equipped for taking on the hectic college world. To join me in my journey, please feel welcome to come to the exhibit open on Friday April 17. The event will take place at 696 East De Kalb Road, adjacent to Hermon DeKalb Central School at the Old Meetinghouse Museum from 6-7pm. Come connect with others interested in local history, while enjoying homemade donuts and other refreshments.  The night will include a building tour, an open forum for questions with the town historian, and viewing of the newly constructed exhibit.