A visitor’s experience at the Museum of the American West in Lander has been enhanced by a video project to better bring local history to life.  The first eight videos produced each highlight the significance of a building in the Pioneer Living History Village.  Local actors, dressed in period clothing, present stories of past happenings in which they were involved.  For example, Sheriff Stough, in his home the Stough House, told of his life as a Fremont County sheriff.  The videos in custom-built kiosks, are motion activated so that upon entering a building the visitor is greeted by the sheriff, or a schoolteacher, or a bartender.  Each of the eight building videos are set up in this manner and are exceptionally well received by the visiting public.

Following the production of the first eight videos, the next step was to produce additional videos so that all the buildings in the pioneer village would be represented.  Varying in presentation, these videos are based on a collection of historic photographs.  As the photos come into view, a narrator describes aspects of the photo and its relevance to specific buildings in the pioneer village.

This video project has proven powerful in bringing local history to life.  We have received many glowing comments from our visitors.  Frequently, the videos prompt discussion and remembrances as visitors find themselves thinking of the past and reminiscing about their personal family histories and life experiences.

The successful completion of this important undertaking was made possible through the partnership of the Museum of the American West and grant funds received from the Wyoming Cultural Trust Fund.

For more information about the Museum of the American West, visit their website.