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Understanding Themes
Heritage development begins to make a difference in an area only after the local history and its themes are fully
understood and programs are created to present the information to the public. Under the section, Evidence of Eastern Shore Heritage, the regionās history and
resources were discussed, and the efficacy of present stewardship mechanisms was analyzed. How this history and its resources are interpreted for the public will be discussed in this chapter.
The Eastern Shore heritage area combines a rich and diverse landscape with a unique cultural history of state and
national importance. Not only did Washington, Madison, and Jefferson sleep here, but Frederick Douglass was born here, and the American Episcopal Church was created here.
5 Unifying Themes
Every corner of the Upper Eastern Shore region resonates with five unifying historical themes:
3 Supporting Themes
Supporting themes which can be added to the interpretation of one or more of the primary themes include:
Interdependence
None of these is a distinct theme to be interpreted independent of the others. Each has arisen over the centuries
commingled with and affecting the others. Religion cannot be discussed without mentioning colonial-era settlement. Agriculture cannot be presented without presenting how African Americans contributed
their efforts. No theme can be interpreted without addressing how water has affected every aspect of culture and development on the Upper Eastern Shore. Likewise, no geographical location can be
presented in the context of only one theme. Every place on the Upper Eastern Shore reflects the effects of each theme, from Sassafras to Reliance and from Tilghman Island to Eastern Neck Island.
Interpretation - Connecting People to Places
The primary goal of interpretation is to connect people with the history of a place. By identifying historical
themes and creating interpretation programs, historical trends and events can be linked with historic resources and artifacts. Interpretation can enhance community pride and self-knowledge and help establish a
clear identity for the region. The most effective interpretation will allow residents and visitors to imagine the history of the area and enter into its spirit. Achieving the primary goal will require meeting
the following objectives:
Objectives of Interpretation
- Examining the evolving relationship between residents of the Upper Eastern Shore and the landscape that surrounds them by relating the evolution of the regionās historical maritime,
natural, colonial, religious, and agricultural landscapes to landscapes that exist today.
- Encouraging residents to participate actively in presenting their history and provide them with a forum in which they can share their knowledge.
- Encouraging cooperative efforts among various groups, sites, and entities so that they employ regional interpretive themes as the context for site-specific stories.
- Cultivating ongoing relationships with educational institutions throughout the region that are interested in contributing to and participating in a range of interpretive programs.
- Working with local educators to integrate heritage resources into local curricula.
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