In the shadow of Hamilton: exploring diverse histories in the development of the Great Falls National Historical Park in Paterson, New Jersey
| Author(s) | Archer, Melissa A. | |
| Date Accessioned | 2011-03-07T23:18:19Z | |
| Date Available | 2011-03-07T23:18:19Z | |
| Publication Date | 2010 | |
| Abstract | In March of 2009 Congress authorized the creation of the Great Falls National Historical Park and the National Park Service (NPS) will shortly begin creating the new park’s management and interpretive plans. Paterson has a strong industrial legacy as America’s first systematically planned industrial site, but it also possesses a rich ethnic history that is still evident today. The city has a complex, layered, and diverse history that has been overshadowed by the more nationally recognized themes of Alexander Hamilton and the city’s industrial success. This thesis explores underrepresented histories within the Great Falls and analyzes the extent to which the NPS’s interpretive policies support or hinder the inclusion of minority narratives. A paradox exists within the Park Service management policy; on one hand they want to expand the scope of park interpretation to engage a broader audience, but on the other, their policies limit interpretive opportunities in Paterson by using an outdated, traditional definition of national significance. This thesis recommends initiatives that the NPS can take to make the park more relevant to a diverse population, many of which may feel little or no connection to resources within the Park System. The NPS has made a commitment to begin representing the heritage of more Americans, and Paterson is an ideal site to realize this goal. | en_US |
| Advisor | L. Reedy, Chandra | |
| Degree | M.A. | |
| Department | University of Delaware, Department of Urban Affairs and Public Policy | |
| URL | http://udspace.udel.edu/handle/19716/5823 | |
| Publisher | University of Delaware | en_US |
| dc.subject.lcsh | United States. National Park Service | |
| dc.subject.lcsh | National parks and reserves -- Interpretive programs -- New Jersey -- Paterson | |
| dc.subject.lcsh | Multiculturalism | |
| Title | In the shadow of Hamilton: exploring diverse histories in the development of the Great Falls National Historical Park in Paterson, New Jersey | en_US |
| Type | Thesis | en_US |