Oral history is a method used to document the past—and present—by drawing on the knowledge of individuals and communities. Through recorded interviews, oral histories often create the first tangible record--where none existed except in memory--of people, places, everyday life, historical events, customs, and traditions. This workshop will offer tips on carrying out a successful oral history project, as well as K-12 classroom applications. Case studies from New Bedford's seafood industry and foodways traditions in Lowell offer programming ideas for all ages to show how food has helped to shape Massachusetts' identity and sense of place over time.

Moderator:

• Carolyn Goldstein, Public History and Community Archives Program Manager, University of Massachusetts Boston

Presenters:

• Laura Orleans, Executive Director, New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center
• Millie Rahn, Folklorist