In her doctoral research at the University of Hull, aspiring curator Elizabeth (Lizzie) Rogers has typically focused on researching the collections amassed by women in the eighteenth century England. But this past summer, Lizzie had the opportunity to expand her understanding of collections by interning at Stratford Hall, a historic American house museum in Virginia. During her internship at Stratford Hall, Lizzie worked extensively on the Margaret Law collection, researching its origins, re-cataloguing it through object research and photography, and creating an online exhibition that included pieces from the collection.
Beyond her research, the location of Lizzie’s internship gave her a unique insight into how collections and historic homes are preserved in the United States, an often contentious topic as the U.S. reflects on the figures and practices of its history. Stratford Hall was the home of the Lee family of Virginia and the birthplace of Robert E. Lee, commander of the Confederate States Army during the American Civil War. Interning at Stratford Hall led Lizzie to consider how American history and the diversity of the American people intersect, as well as the debates surrounding the presentation of historical culture. “[Museums] have such an important role to play in considering how things should be preserved and how messages perpetuated by monuments and places change over time,” she explains.
We caught up with Elizabeth to hear more about her experience at Stratford Hall and how her internship inspired her new career path as a curator.
What impact has your exchange experience had on your life and your career?
Being able to undertake a curatorial internship in the U.S. has had a big impact on my life and future career aspirations. It gave me the chance to travel and explore new places, which, as I was on my own and meeting people for the first time, really built my confidence and also taught me how much I enjoy it. I realised very quickly I want to work towards a career in curatorship and public history – being able to be so hands on with historic objects was so interesting, and I was able to gain experience in putting together exhibitions both in physical spaces and online. The way history is communicated to the public and the opportunities made available for public engagement are so important, and gaining experience in these areas at Stratford has helped me to focus my career goals.
What was your favorite memory from your exchange experience?
My exchange program is certainly one I will never forget – I had such a great time that it is difficult pick one favourite memory! I loved helping to put together an exhibition on the Stuart family at Stratford Hall – it was really fun helping to get the space ready and getting the objects in place, including dressing a mannequin with a dress from the early 1900s. I loved visiting Jamestown – I have always wanted to visit, so was really excited when I found out I was spending ten weeks in Virginia and knew I had to go. In the end, I went twice, which was so fun! I should also probably mention the weather – I think I only experienced about a week’s worth of rain in the whole time I was there, which was so nice for someone who is used to British summertime! It was also amazing to spend time visiting the museums and galleries in Washington, DC, Boston, and New York when I finished – as well as trying all the food and drinks. My new favourite place is Georgetown Cupcake, so I’m really sad we don’t have one in the UK!
What was your favorite thing to do in Stratford?
I was lucky enough that my internship covered Stratford Hall’s Wine and Oyster Festival, which was held in mid-September. It was such a great weekend trying local food and wine, alongside perusing the stalls from local artisans and listening to local musicians play.
What advice can you offer to future exchange visitors coming to the United States?
I think my biggest piece of advice would definitely be to take advantage of all the opportunities presented to you. I wanted to make sure I tried lots of new things, from foods to going to my first ever baseball game (which was great fun – I would definitely go again!), as well as trying to visit as many places as possible.
What does cultural exchange mean to you?
I think cultural exchange means the chance to surround yourself with new people and learn from them and their experiences, as well as taking in the history, culture, and heritage of the place you are staying in. I think it also means the chance to share things from your own culture, discuss how things are different or similar and learn from each other. It is so important to ask questions of the friends you make, learn where you can and enjoy immersing yourself in a different place.