Ellen M. Rosenthal - President and CEO

If you’ve been to Conner Prairie lately you’ve seen that 1886 Liberty Corner on the south side of the historic grounds is closed while we create a new experience. The subject of the experience is under wraps. You might say Conner Prairie is acting like the magician who does not want to ruin the excitement and expectation by telling the audience, “I’m putting this bowl of water under the magic cover now and then you’ll see four white doves come out.” We think you’d rather say “Ooh” and “Aah” as the bright feathers emerge.

Even though I can’t tell you the topic, I can tell you now a bit of what has gone on under the magic cover.

Every program Conner Prairie creates begins with extensive historical research on the topic. Not only do our researchers learn about the broad scope and impact of Indiana events, but we reach out to the best minds across the country. For example, with the 1859 Balloon Voyage, we involved Dr. Tom Crouch, Senior Curator, Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution, who is the country’s leading expert on ballooning in America. Next, we try to find the exciting kernel with the topic. Not being a history classroom, we can’t require everyone to read about all aspects. As our mission states, Conner Prairie “seeks to inspire curiosity and learning about Indiana’s history.” In a place like ours, where people go for fun as well as learning, we have to find an angle that piques interest.

Project developers consider what would interest kids as well as adults. We want our programs to be enjoyable and offer opportunities for all ages to learn. And, ideally we want to create experiences that will encourage kids and adults to share learning together – to talk to each other and remember a very special time.
Next comes a “storyboard” for the project, much like a storyboard for a movie that shows the setting, the major characters and what’s called the “dramatic arc”. That means we plot out how we introduce the topic and how the story plays out, where we tug at guests’ heartstrings, where they feel excited, where they can talk to each other, ask questions, rest or just play.

Next comes a testing phase, where we check our ideas and ask for input from teachers, members, parents, kids, the Conner Prairie Alliance and the Horizon Council, among others. And then we have to reshape parts to make them better. The testing doesn’t stop during development. It continues after we are open as we correct problems and check for confusing segments.

Finally comes the fundraising part. It starts with a committed board of trustees (which we have!!) and moves out to foundations, federal agencies and people like you and me.

When I think about pulling this all together, I think about rubbing one’s stomach and patting one’s head at the same time. I look forward to the day when Conner Prairie can whisk away the magic blanket and show you what we’ve been creating underneath. I guarantee that you will “ooh” and “aah” and gasp with delight. Until then,

Yours truly,

Ellen Rosenthal