How to Become a Public Historian: Sharing History with All.

by

I’m going to share with you something truly exciting – something that speaks to the heart of anyone who’s ever been moved by a historical documentary, lost themselves in a captivating museum exhibit, or felt a profound connection to an ancient site. If you’re like me, you probably already know this isn’t just about dusty archives and academic papers. It’s about making history live, breathe, and really resonate with all kinds of people. It’s about building a bridge between the specialized world of scholarly research and the everyday lives of communities.

If your love for the past goes beyond just personal curiosity and you actually want to actively engage and educate others, then becoming a public historian might just be your calling. I’m here to light up that path for you, offering concrete steps and practical advice to help you turn your historical interest into a meaningful, impactful career.

Understanding the Landscape: So, What Exactly Is a Public Historian?

Before we dive into how to do this, let’s get clear on what a public historian actually is. Imagine a professional who takes historical methods and knowledge and applies them to public audiences and institutions. Think about places outside the traditional academic classroom. They’re translators, curators, storytellers, and community builders. While academic historians primarily write for other academics, public historians craft narratives and experiences for everyone – from schoolchildren to policymakers, tourists to local residents.

Here are some key distinctions to keep in mind:

  • Audience-Centric: We prioritize the needs and interests of our audience, constantly adapting our approach to connect with them.
  • Applied History: Our work often has practical applications. We might inform policy, help shape a community’s identity, or even boost heritage tourism.
  • Diverse Methodologies: While research is at our core, our tools go way beyond the library. We use oral history, digital media, exhibit design, and community engagement.

Think about some of the things public historians do:

  • Museum Curators research, collect, and interpret artifacts for exhibitions. They’re the ones writing those interpretive labels and creating educational materials.
  • Archivists preserve historical records, making them accessible to researchers and the public. A lot of us are developing digital collections these days.
  • Oral Historians conduct interviews with people to create firsthand accounts of the past, contributing to important community memory projects.
  • Historic Preservation Specialists identify, document, and champion the protection of historic buildings and sites.
  • Documentary Filmmakers/Producers research historical topics, work closely with film crews, and craft incredibly compelling visual narratives.
  • Park Rangers (Interpretation) develop and deliver programs about historical sites, battlefields, or cultural landscapes.
  • Consultants advise government agencies, nonprofits, or corporations on historical matters, often related to policy or land use.
  • Cultural Resource Specialists conduct historical research for environmental impact statements or land development projects.

This wide range means there are opportunities in so many places – from federal agencies to small non-profits, from huge museums to independent consultancies.

Step 1: Building Your Foundation – Education and Beyond

Passion is definitely what fuels this journey, but a strong educational foundation and a commitment to continuous learning are absolutely essential.

The Academic Path: Degrees and Specializations

For most public history roles, a college degree is your starting point.

  • Undergraduate Studies (BA/BS in History or a Related Field): This is where you begin. Don’t just focus on memorizing dates! Instead, really hone your critical thinking, research methods, and strong analytical writing skills.
    • Here’s a tip: Look for history departments that offer courses specifically in public history, material culture, or historical methods. Even if they don’t have a dedicated public history program, seek out professors whose research aligns with applied history.
    • For example: Instead of just taking “European History 101,” try to find a “Museum Studies: Collection Management” or “Oral History Techniques” course if they’re available. If not, focus on really strong research paper writing and developing your argumentative skills.
  • Graduate Studies (MA/MS/PhD in Public History or a Related Field): For many competitive positions, especially in larger institutions or at a curatorial or managerial level, a master’s degree is highly recommended – often, it’s required. Some really specialized roles (like historical archaeology or advanced preservation) might even call for a PhD.
    • Why a Public History Master’s? Unlike a traditional history MA, a public history program gives you practical training. You’ll take courses in museum studies, archives, historic preservation, cultural resource management, and digital humanities. And usually, you’ll complete internships.
    • Here’s how to choose a graduate program:
      • Curriculum: Does it offer a diverse range of public history specializations (like museum studies, archives, preservation, oral history)?
      • Faculty Expertise: Do the professors have active public history projects, connections to institutions, or practical experience?
      • Internship Requirements: Mandatory, well-structured internships are incredibly important. Find out where their students typically intern.
      • Alumni Network: What careers have their graduates pursued? Do they have strong employment rates in the field?
      • Geographic Location: Is the program located near relevant institutions where you could intern or network?
    • For instance: A program at the University of Massachusetts Amherst might have concentrations in museum studies and historic preservation, with opportunities to intern at local historical societies or state parks. A program at Middle Tennessee State University might have a strong focus on oral history and cultural resource management, given the region’s rich history.
  • Alternative Degrees: Degrees in museum studies, archival studies, library science (specifically with an archival concentration), cultural resource management, or even communications (with a historical focus) can be perfectly viable. Especially when you combine them with history coursework or practical experience.

Beyond the Classroom: Learning on Your Own

Formal education gives you a framework, but continuous learning is what really holds it all together.

  • Read Widely: Don’t just stick to scholarly history. Immerse yourself in books about museum exhibit design, archival theory, historic preservation standards, oral history methodologies, and public engagement strategies. Check out publications from organizations like the American Association for State and Local History (AASLH) or the National Council on Public History (NCPH).
  • Follow Industry Trends: Public history is always evolving. New technologies (digital humanities, virtual reality), ethical considerations (contested histories, repatriation), and funding models are constantly emerging. Stay informed using professional journals, association newsletters, and online forums.
  • Develop Technical Skills: Many public history roles require specific technical competencies.
    • Archivists: You’ll want experience with archival management software (like Archivists’ Toolkit, ArchivesSpace) and digitization equipment.
    • Museum Professionals: Knowledge of collection management databases (like PastPerfect, Re:discovery) and exhibit design software (like SketchUp, CAD) is super helpful.
    • Oral Historians: You’ll need audio recording and editing software (like Audacity, Adobe Audition) and transcription tools.
    • Digital Historians: Web design (HTML/CSS, CMS like WordPress), data visualization tools, and GIS software are key.
    • Preservationists: CAD, photo-editing tools, and an understanding of building materials and architectural styles are important.
    • Here’s a tip: Identify any skill gaps for your desired role and seek out online courses (Coursera, LinkedIn Learning), workshops, or tutorials to bridge them.
    • For example: If you want to work in digital public history, take an online course on Python for data analysis or learn to build a simple interactive timeline using open-source tools.

Step 2: Getting That Practical Edge – Experience is Everything

Formal education provides the theory; practical experience turns that theory into skill. This is where you actually test your knowledge, build your portfolio, and make invaluable connections.

Internships: Your Gateway to the Field

Internships are, without a doubt, the most critical part of your training. They give you hands-on experience, networking opportunities, and often a clearer picture of your career path.

  • Seek Diverse Experiences: Don’t limit yourself to just one type of institution or role. An internship at a small historical society, a huge art museum (specifically for their archives), a federal agency, or a preservation consulting firm can all offer distinct insights.
    • Here’s a tip: If your program doesn’t require multiple internships, seek them out during summer breaks or even after graduation. Unpaid internships are common, but prioritize ones that offer meaningful work and mentorship.
    • For example: One summer, intern at a local historical society focusing on exhibit development. The next, intern at a university archives learning about digital preservation. This wider experience makes you more versatile.
  • Network During Internships: Your supervisors and colleagues are potential mentors, references, and future collaborators. Treat every interaction as a chance to learn and connect.
    • Here’s a tip: Ask thoughtful questions, offer to help with unexpected tasks, and maintain a professional demeanor. Send thank-you notes after important meetings or at the end of your internship.
  • Document Your Work: Keep a detailed log of all your activities, projects, and accomplishments. This will be incredibly useful when you create your resume and portfolio.
    • For example: You could write, “Assisted curator with research for new ‘Immigrant Journeys’ exhibit, leading to the identification of 15 key artifacts and drafting of 10 interpretive labels.”

Volunteering: Showing Initiative and Building Skills

When formal internships are hard to come by, or you just need to pick up specific skills, volunteering is an excellent alternative.

  • Targeted Volunteering: Don’t just volunteer anywhere. Look for opportunities that really align with your career interests and allow you to gain transferable skills.
    • Here’s a tip: Reach out to local museums, historical societies, archives, or preservation organizations. Offer specific skills, like, “I’d love to help transcribe oral histories,” or “I’m skilled in graphic design and could help with exhibit signage.”
    • For example: If you want to be an oral historian, volunteer at your local library’s special collections department to help process existing interviews or conduct new ones. If you’re into preservation, join a local preservation group and participate in clean-up days or research projects.

Freelance Projects & Self-Initiated Work: Building Your Portfolio

Public history really thrives on tangible outputs. Creating your own projects shows initiative, creativity, and practical skills.

  • Start Small, Think Big: Don’t wait around for permission.
    • Here are some ideas:
      • Create a Digital Exhibit: Choose a local historical topic and build a simple website using free tools (like Google Sites, Omeka) to showcase primary sources, an interpretive narrative, and images.
      • Conduct Oral Histories: Interview a family member, a local community leader, or an elder about their experiences, making sure to follow ethical guidelines. Transcribe it, and maybe even create a short audio clip.
      • Catalog a Personal Collection: Apply archival principles to organize your own family photos or documents.
      • Write a Historical Blog: Focus on interpreting history for a public audience. Pick a niche topic you’re passionate about.
      • Develop a Walking Tour: Research a historic neighborhood and create an interpretive script for a self-guided walking tour.
    • For instance: You could research the history of your neighborhood’s oldest street, uncover old photographs, interview long-time residents, and then, using a free mapping tool, create an interactive online map with historical markers and audio clips. This directly demonstrates research, interpretation, and digital skills.

These projects will become critical parts of your portfolio, proving that you can do the work – not just talk about it.

Step 3: Mastering the Art of Connection – Networking and Professional Development

The public history community is often very collaborative. Building relationships isn’t just about finding a job; it’s about learning, sharing, and contributing to the entire field.

Join Professional Organizations

This is absolutely essential for serious public historians. Membership gives you access to resources, conferences, job boards, and networking opportunities.

  • Key Organizations to Consider:
    • National Council on Public History (NCPH): This is the main national professional organization for public historians. Their annual conference is a must-attend event for networking and learning.
    • American Association for State and Local History (AASLH): They focus on historical organizations (museums, historical societies) at the state and local levels.
    • Society of American Archivists (SAA): Essential if you’re pursuing archival careers.
    • National Trust for Historic Preservation (NTHP): Crucial for preservationists.
    • Oral History Association (OHA): For those focusing on oral history.
    • Regional/State Organizations: Many states have their own public history, museum, archival, or preservation associations. These are often more accessible for students and offer excellent local networking.
    • Here’s a tip: Join as a student member, which often comes with reduced fees. Attend virtual and in-person conferences. Don’t just attend sessions; actively participate in Q&A, approach speakers afterwards, and strike up conversations with other attendees.
    • For example: At an NCPH conference, approach a speaker whose work really resonates with you. After their talk, introduce yourself, express interest in their project, and ask a thoughtful question. Exchange contact information.

Attend Conferences, Workshops, and Webinars

These events are vital for staying current, learning new skills, and networking.

  • Beyond Presentations: Look for opportunities to participate in professional development workshops (like “Introduction to Exhibit Design Software,” “Grant Writing for Non-Profits,” or “Ethical Practices in Oral History”).
  • Presenter Advantage: As you gain experience, consider presenting a paper or leading a session at a regional conference. This really elevates your profile and showcases your expertise.
    • Here’s a tip: Follow professional organizations on social media and subscribe to their newsletters to stay informed about upcoming events. Many organizations offer virtual events, making them even more accessible.

Use Online Platforms Strategically

LinkedIn and field-specific forums are powerful tools for networking and truly showcasing your expertise.

  • LinkedIn Presence:
    • Professional Profile: Make sure your LinkedIn profile is comprehensive, up-to-date, and highlights your public history skills and experience.
    • Connect Thoughtfully: Send personalized connection requests to professionals in the field, mentioning how you know them or why you admire their work.
    • Engage with Content: Follow relevant organizations and thought leaders. Comment on posts, share insightful articles, and demonstrate your knowledge.
    • Join Groups: Participate in public history, museum studies, or archival professional groups on LinkedIn.
    • Here’s a tip: Instead of sending a generic connection request, try something like, “Hi [Name], I really enjoyed your presentation on [Topic] at the [Conference Name]. I’m particularly interested in [Specific Aspect]. Would love to connect and follow your work.”
  • Field-Specific Forums and List-servs: Many organizations maintain list-servs or forums where members share opportunities, ask questions, and discuss industry trends.
    • For example: The H-Public list-serv (H-Net) is an invaluable resource for discussions and job postings in public history. Actively read the discussions and contribute when you have something valuable to add.

Informational Interviews: Learning from the Pros

One of the most effective networking strategies is to conduct informational interviews.

  • Purpose: Not to ask for a job directly, but to learn about their career path, daily responsibilities, challenges, and advice for newcomers.
  • How to Approach: Research the person and their work thoroughly. Send a polite email requesting 20-30 minutes of their time for an informational interview. Clearly state your purpose.
    • Here’s a tip: Prepare thoughtful questions beforehand. Be respectful of their time. Send a thank-you note afterwards.
    • Example Questions: “What does a typical day look like for you?” “What skills do you find most crucial in your role?” “What advice would you give someone just starting out in public history?” “Are there any trends in the field I should be aware of?”

Step 4: Crafting Your Narrative – The Job Search and Beyond

Once you’ve built your skills and network, it’s time to articulate your value and secure a position.

Building Your Professional Portfolio

A portfolio is so much more than just a resume; it’s a carefully chosen collection of your best work, really showing off your practical abilities.

  • What to Include:
    • Writing Samples: Think interpretive texts (exhibit labels, brochure copy), research papers that demonstrate historical analysis, blog posts, press releases.
    • Project Examples: Images and descriptions of exhibits you helped create, links to digital projects (websites, online exhibits, GIS maps), sound clips from oral history interviews, images of preservation projects.
    • Curriculum Vitae (CV) / Resume: Tailor this for each application you send out.
    • References: A list of professional references.
  • Presentation: Consider creating a digital portfolio (even a simple website) for easy sharing, in addition to physical copies if they’re ever required. Organize it logically and make it visually appealing.
    • Here’s a tip: As you complete internships or personal projects, consciously think about how you will showcase these in your portfolio. Take high-quality photos, save relevant documents, and get permission if necessary.

Targeting Your Job Search

Public history jobs are often found in specific places and require a very tailored approach.

  • Job Boards:
    • Professional Organizations: NCPH, AASLH, SAA, NTHP often have dedicated job boards or list-servs just for members.
    • University Career Services: Your alma mater might have job boards or connections to opportunities.
    • Specialized Sites: Look for museum-specific job boards (like the American Alliance of Museums), historic preservation job boards (like PreservationDirectory.com), and government job boards (USAJOBS for federal positions such as the National Park Service).
    • General Job Sites (with specific keywords): Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor – use keywords like “public historian,” “museum curator,” “archivist,” “historic preservation,” “interpretive specialist.”
  • Networking: Many jobs are found through personal connections even before they’re officially advertised. Your network is your most powerful job-seeking tool.

Tailoring Applications and Interviewing Effectively

Generic applications rarely get you anywhere. Every application should be a custom fit.

  • Resume/CV Customization: Highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the specific job description. Use keywords from the posting.
    • Here’s a tip: If the job description emphasizes “community engagement,” make sure your resume explicitly mentions projects where you worked with community groups.
  • Compelling Cover Letters: This is your chance to tell a story. Explain why you are uniquely qualified for this specific role, really showing your understanding of the institution’s mission and needs.
    • For example: Instead of “I am applying for the Archivist position,” start with something like, “My passion for preserving local narratives, honed through my work digitizing the X Collection at the Y Historical Society, makes me an ideal candidate for your Archivist role, particularly given your focus on community-sourced oral histories.”
  • Interview Preparation:
    • Research: Deeply research the institution, its mission, its current projects, and the team you’d be joining.
    • Anticipate Questions: Prepare answers that really demonstrate your knowledge, skills, and enthusiasm. Be ready to discuss your portfolio projects in detail.
    • Behavioral Questions: Practice answering questions like “Tell me about a time you had to interpret a sensitive historical topic for a public audience.” Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
    • Ask Insightful Questions: Prepare questions about the role, the team culture, challenges, and opportunities within the organization. This really shows your engagement and foresight.
    • Follow-Up: Send a thank-you note promptly after the interview, reiterating your interest and referencing a specific point from your discussion.

Step 5: Embracing the Ethos – What It Means to Be a Public Historian

Beyond just skills and roles, being a public historian requires a certain mindset and a deep commitment to ethical practice.

Ethical Considerations and Best Practices

Public history exists right at the intersection of scholarship and public engagement, which brings its own unique ethical demands.

  • Accuracy and Integrity: Upholding historical accuracy is incredibly important, even when presenting complex or controversial topics. Distorted history serves no one.
  • Inclusivity and Representation: Public historians have a responsibility to tell diverse stories, challenging dominant narratives and giving a voice to underrepresented groups. This includes grappling with sensitive and contested histories.
  • Community Engagement and Ownership: When working with communities, we must prioritize co-creation, respect local knowledge, and consider issues of intellectual property and ownership.
    • Here’s a tip: Learn about the “Principles and Standards of Practice” of the NCPH or the “Code of Ethics” of the SAA. Apply these principles in all your work.
  • Accessibility: Making history accessible means considering various learning styles, physical limitations, and language barriers.

Advocating for History

Public historians are often advocates – for historical resources, for historical literacy, and for the sheer relevance of the past.

  • Demonstrate Value: Clearly articulate how historical understanding contributes to civic engagement, informed decision-making, and community well-being.
  • Engage with Policy: Understand how historical research can inform urban planning, legislative decisions, or cultural heritage policy.
  • Be a Storyteller: Continuously find ways to connect historical narratives to contemporary issues, making the past truly resonate with today’s audiences.

Commitment to Lifelong Learning and Adaptability

The field of public history is constantly evolving. Staying relevant requires continuous growth.

  • New Technologies: Embrace digital tools, virtual reality, and interactive media to engage audiences in innovative ways.
  • Changing Audiences: Understand evolving public interests and learning preferences.
  • Evolving Scholarship: Integrate new historical interpretations and methodologies into your public work.
  • Resilience: Public history, like many non-profit and cultural fields, can face funding challenges. Resilience, creativity, and adaptability are key to thriving.

Becoming a public historian is a journey of continuous learning, passionate engagement, and impactful contribution. It’s about so much more than just knowing history; it’s about sharing it, preserving it, and making it meaningful for everyone. This path requires dedication, strategic action, and a genuine desire to connect people with the stories that shape our world. If you commit to these steps, you will not only embark on a fulfilling career but also play a vital role in ensuring that history continues to inform, inspire, and illuminate the present for generations to come.