RE: Classroom projects related to local history themes that might involve
parents.

You might consider something linked to local State Historic Markers -
those blue and gold signs on posts you see along the side of the road.
The texts on these signs are usually focused on local sites and events,
so community history research is involved.

Since the markers are often along highways and other "out of town"
places, parents would have to get involved; transporting the child on field
expeditions to find markers, take pictures of them, interview landowners
about them, etc.

The brief texts could be a catalyst to compile other local history
information about the site or subject.

Another slant on this would be to research a site - and old ruins or
"archeological" sites of local interest might be the focus here - and then
prepare a report that supports the idea of having a marker put up there.
This proposal could be presented to the town or county historian or local
government for approval, and funding [which unfortunately is not
presently available from the State] could be raised through local projects.

The State Education Department is the contact for information about old
markers and advice on new ones. Students, teachers, and parents
interested in this can contact me.
Philip Lord, Jr.
Acting Chief
Historical Survey
New York State Museum
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