#United States #Baltimore #Maryland Center #Maryland History #WayFinders

Explore History with Hands-On Learning at MCHC

The Maryland Center for History and Culture (MCHC) is set to unveil a captivating new permanent exhibition named WayFinders: Making Sense of Our World, aimed specifically at children and families. Scheduled to open on March 26, 2026, this immersive 5,000-square-foot exhibit will provide visitors with a unique opportunity to interact with Maryland history like never before. Located in the newly renovated WayFinder Wing of the Thomas Hugg Memorial Building, the exhibition embodies an approach to learning that emphasizes curiosity, observation, and direct engagement.

A New Approach to Historic Learning

Katie Caljean, the president and CEO of MCHC, articulates the vision behind WayFinders, stating, “WayFinders reflects the kind of history experience we want to create at MCHC, one that invites children and families to participate, ask questions, and see themselves in the story.” As the nation approaches the 250th anniversary of American independence, this exhibition serves as a significant milestone, facilitating a deeper comprehension of the people, ideas, and experiences that have shaped our world.

The exhibition’s design enables children ages 5 to 11 and their families to engage with history through various sensory experiences—touching, listening, smelling, and observing. The objective is to foster a multi-generational learning atmosphere where every visitor can create meaningful connections to Maryland's rich narrative.

Interactive Elements and Experiences

At the center of the exhibition stands a sculptural WayFinding Tree, which anchors the core concept of navigation in history, illustrating how communities have utilized their senses to traverse their environments. Around the tree, visitors will find multiple interactive stations inspired by renowned figures in Maryland's history, such as Mary Katharine Goddard, Benjamin Banneker, Charles Willson Peale, and the Indigenous Peoples of Maryland. The inclusion of these figures not only highlights their contributions but also reinforces Maryland's ongoing cultural narrative.

The exhibition promises activities that range from turning historical clock gears and calculating cicada cycles to building silhouette stories in a theater. Moreover, special attention is given to the Indigenous Peoples of the Chesapeake through a dedicated introductory section, emphasizing the longstanding presence and impact these communities have had in shaping the region.

Enhancements to the MCHC Experience

The newly renovated WayFinder Wing at MCHC is designed not just to host the WayFinders exhibition but also to enhance the overall visitor experience. Families can look forward to improved amenities including updated restrooms, a nursing room, and dedicated spaces for collaboration and creativity.

Opening week will feature a public ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 26, followed by a WayFinder Weekend Workshop where families can participate in hands-on activities designed to enrich their engagement with history.

“WayFinders brings history to life through sensory, hands-on experiences that encourage visitors to explore with curiosity and intention,” explains Catherine Rogers Arthur, Vice President of Collections and Chief Curator at MCHC. By fostering an environment where history is interactive and engaging, MCHC is committed to inspiring the next generation to appreciate their heritage.

In conclusion, the WayFinders: Making Sense of Our World exhibition promises to be a groundbreaking initiative within Maryland's cultural landscape. With its combination of visual, tactile, auditory, and experiential learning opportunities, MCHC is paving the way for how history can be understood and appreciated by families and school groups alike, marking a pivotal moment in educational exploration as the nation nears its milestone anniversary.

For further information about the event and registration for the workshop, visit MCHC's website.