Here at Locust Grove, we are fortunate to have so many tremendously talented people share their time and talents with us. Our volunteers are the lifeblood of the organization, and our interns serve as a superb resource for all sorts of projects. Over the past few months, Hannah M. has acted as our Collections Intern, working with our Curator Mary Beth to bring our collections storage and registry up to snuff. Hannah is a Louisville native who grew up near Locust Grove, and has many fond memories of adventures on the property. Take it away, Hannah!
Hannah M. in newly reorganized Collections Storage!
Hi! I’m Hannah M. As a homeschooled kid, my siblings and I spent many hours roaming through the woods and creeks behind Locust Grove and often picnicked at HLG back in the 90s. I moved away from Louisville in the early 2000s but recently moved back with my husband, Justin, and our two Australian Shepherds, Dash and Zero. While I was away, I received my bachelors degree from the University of Mary Washington (UMW) in Fredericksburg, VA. It’s a lovely, small school that used to be the sister school to UVA! At UMW, I double majored in Historic Preservation and American Studies with a minor in Museum Studies. I also interned at Kenmore Plantation, the home of George Washington’s sister, and Ferry Farm, GW’s childhood home! After graduating, I worked for a hospital system’s supply chain management department back in Virginia. It was nice to experience the “cubicle-life” but it made me even more sure that I wanted to work in a museum. I decided to take the leap and go back to school! Currently, I am completing my Masters in Museum Studies to be a Registrar or a Collections Manager at the University of Oklahoma. I have three classes to finish and am expecting to graduate in July. I also work part time at the Speed Art Museum but am starting to apply for “real jobs” in Registration all over the country!
2. What brought you to Locust Grove?
I was drawn to Locust Grove for two reasons. First, I spent a lot of time here as a child and always felt that my many visits helped spur me towards studying museums and history as an adult. Second, I love house museums! They all have many quirks and challenges, but for the most part, the people who work and volunteer at house museums do it because they love their jobs and are passionate about the work they do.
Hannah helps Curator Mary Beth with piece from our textile collection.
3. What are you working on at Locust Grove?
I actually started interning at HLG last summer! I spent the fall interning in collections. Among other things, I reorganized collections storage, helped number and accession a number of objects, and updated our PastPerfect records. This spring I am starting a new project with Mary Beth. We are going to start researching and rewriting parts of Locust Grove’s Collection Management Policy. I am also going to help write a corresponding Collection Management Procedures document to help in the adherence of our current Collection’s Policy. It’s going to be exciting to continue to move HLG towards AAM excellence.
Thanks to Hannah, everything is in its proper place!
4. What has been your favorite part so far?
I have so many favorite parts! I loved getting hands on experience in Collections Storage. I learned so much about proper collections storage and AAM standards. I have also enjoyed working hand-in-hand with Mary Beth and seeing the behind the scenes of Collections Management and Curation at a House Museum.
Hannah and Education Assistant Diane polish silver.
5. What do you hope to gain from your Locust Grove experience?
I have already gained so much on-the-job training that is going to be relevant in my future career. I am beyond thankful to intern at such a vibrant House Museum. The staff and volunteers here are wonderful and I feel lucky to be here!
Thanks, Hannah! We’re lucky to have you! If you’re interested in joining the fun, stay tuned for summer internship opportunities! They will be posted here on our website.
Our 2017 events calendar is also on the website! Be sure to check out all our upcoming events and don’t forget about the Used Book Sale, March 3-5! We can’t wait to see all our friends this year.
Sincerely yours,
Hannah Z.
Historic Locust Grove 