Increasing Access to the National Canal Museum's Collections

FAIN: PB-275313-20

DNL (Easton, PA 18042-7120)
Daphne Mayer (Project Director: May 2020 to present)

Four staff members, necessary materials, and online training sessions in order to process previously undocumented items and update incomplete records; produce online content inspired by the museum’s collections; and perform a deep clean prior to the return of museum staff members.

The Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor, on behalf of the National Canal Museum, seeks funding during this unprecedented crisis to support its efforts to retain its staff while improving the accessibility of the museum’s collections to the public. The collections embody the nationally significant history of canals and illustrate how the transport of anthracite coal fueled the American Industrial Revolution. The project will support three existing staff members and create a new temporary position. The project team will work to reduce the backlog of unprocessed collection material that has accumulated over many years, while photographing and digitizing as much as possible. The project also endeavors to increase awareness and appreciation of the collection by creating engaging digital content that can be accessed by the public remotely.

Media Coverage

Easton Institutions Receive Award (Media Coverage)
Author(s): Debra Schnecker
Publication: The Morning Call
Date: 7/5/2020
Abstract: Article detailing the receipt of NEH CARES grants by the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor and the Northampton County Historical & Genealogical Society. This article was a result of a joint press release by the two organizations.
URL: http://www.mcall.com