We live in a world today in which technology is moving forward at a pace that dazzles the mind.

Half a century ago and earlier there was much talk of the knowledge explosion, which was already taking shape. I can recall attending the New York Worlds Fair in 1939 where exhibits projecting life in the future were on display. As imaginative and creative as those projections of life in the coming generations were, reality has achieved a level of sophistication and advancement which far surpassed all expectations. We need look no further than space science and computer technology to recognize this. Who would have dreamed of the advancements already made and those forecast for the near future.

In all of these endeavors a major ingredient for mankinds successes has been the ability to look at the past to gain the insight to more forward in the present. One prime example of this is the successes of the ancient Egyptians in their creation of the pyramids. We marvel at this accomplishment even today. Perhaps we would not have high-rise buildings today were it not for the example set by the Egyptians in the past.

A deep understanding of our past is essential in preparing for the future. Your interest in preserving that past is evidence of this. I share with you that interest of past generations and their accomplishments as well as the desire to secure that past so that it is available to draw upon in planning the future.

Although this book focuses on the development and operation of the small historical museum it is designed such that it has appeal to a much broader audience. Those who simply enjoy history as well as those involved or wanting to become involved in museums will find this manual helpful and interesting. Much of what is presented is practical, with down to earth ideas and procedures that should prove to be beneficial to the reader.

A most important ingredient in each of our lives is our ability to remember. Imagine the emptiness that otherwise would befall us without our memories. For the moment forget technology and the importance of knowing the past in preparing for the future. For just a moment dwell upon the joy, the meaning to life, that our memories provide for us. This in itself is all of the motivation most of us require to place such a very special value on the preservation of our past.