VISION

Our museum joyously shouts, History belongs to everyone, and we all belong in history. With transparency, cultural humility, and courage, we invite all people into meaningful conversation about who we have been as Burlingtonians, who we are now, and who we can become together.

MISSION

BHCC’s mission is to strengthen historical and cultural literacy in the Burlington community, a cornerstone of a healthy democracy. We seek untold stories that reveal Burlington’s diverse communities and perspectives, connections to the wider human story, and the lessons they offer for today.

We will:

  • connect past to present to increase historical and cultural literacy, the foundation of a strong, modern democracy.

  • analyze history in all its complexity, striving to teach the full story — the triumphs and the struggles — because leaving out hardship erases vital lessons.

  • restore forgotten and ignored stories, reclaiming what matters from the past and anchoring it in the present.

  • provide immersive learning experiences for all ages that advance questioning, curiosity, and understanding.

  • serve as a catalyst for civic engagement, creating a welcoming Center where conversation, empathy, and shared learning shape a better future.

  • tell unvarnished stories across generations, continually updating Burlington’s narrative as new voices and perspectives come to light.

VALUES

At the Burlington History & Culture Center, our values guide how we explore the past, engage the present, and imagine the future. They shape not only what stories we tell, but how we tell them - with honesty, curiosity, inclusion, dialogue, humility, and courage.

We believe in:

  • making evidence-based interpretations that honor TRUTH and illuminate complexities and struggles, because honesty is the foundation of understanding.

  • speaking historical truths to power, which requires COURAGE. We embrace the hard conversations about our past and present that move us toward a more just world.

  • inspiring CURIOSITY, learning, and reflection through stories and conversations that evoke laughter, joy, and sometimes tears. Certainty is an obstacle in our quest for truth, and a curious, open mind leads to wisdom.

  • representing MULTIPLE PERSPECTIVES to enrich the stories we tell, reminding us that diversity is a source of strength. We believe that inclusivity, empathy, and equity are vital to our shared humanity.

  • creating INTERACTIVE EXPERIENCES that inspire healthy conversations, invite reflection, connection, and civic engagement. Through open conversation, we learn from one another and strengthen community understanding.

  • promoting CIVIC ENGAGEMENT to ensure an active citizenry, which is vital for a democratic society and a sense of shared community. Engaging citizens in decision-making processes helps all of us influence policies and address societal issues leading to a more just society.

  • practicing CULTURAL HUMILITY by listening before speaking and learning before leading. We seek out the untold and the overlooked, recognizing that every story adds to the whole truth.

  • acknowledging our struggle for JUSTICE over the centuries and in exposing discrimination and exclusion as well as celebrating inclusivity and generosity that move us toward a better world.

THEMES

At the Center, our themes will be explored across centuries, emphasizing the intricate relationships that connect Burlington's past, present, and future. Each theme offers a lens through which the city's evolution and ongoing transformation can be understood.

1. Natural History and Environmental Issues

An examination of Burlington's natural history reveals how environmental factors have shaped the city over time. This theme will address the development of our geographical setting and local ecosystems, the impact of human activity, and the ongoing environmental challenges faced by the community.

2. Indigenous History, Colonialism, and Early Settlement

The history of Burlington begins with Indigenous peoples, whose traditions and experiences are foundational to the region. The narrative continues through the impacts of successive colonizations and settlements, displacement and resilience, and recovery of the fragmented identity of Abenakis across their original territory, including current-day Vermont and Quebec. We will highlight both change and continuity into the present.

3. Immigration and Changing Demographics

Burlington's population has been transformed through waves of immigration starting thousands of years ago, each bringing new cultures and perspectives. This theme will explore how various cultures and demographic changes have influenced the social and cultural fabric of the city.

4. Cultural Expressions in Burlington

Throughout its history, Burlington has fostered diverse cultural expressions. Art, music, religions, foods, education, festivals, sports, and other forms of cultural activity have reflected and contributed to the city's evolving identity.

5. Architecture and the Built Environment

Burlington's built environment tells the story of its development. From historic buildings to sewers to modern structures, the architecture of the city demonstrates the interplay between function, style, and community needs over time.

6. Neighborhoods and Community

The neighborhoods of Burlington are central to its story. This theme will highlight the evolution of different smaller communities within the city, the roles they have played in the city's life, and their interconnectedness.

7. Labor, Industry, and the Economy

The economic history of Burlington is marked by shifts in labor and industry over the centuries. Much of this was driven by transportation changes, waterfront industries (e.g. lumber and glassmaking), tourism, and the labor of men and women from many walks of life. This theme covers the growth of local businesses, changes in employment, and the broader economic trends that have shaped the city.

8. Social Justice Issues

Social justice has been a recurring concern throughout Burlington's history. Key movements and moments will be examined, focusing on conflicts, the pursuit of equity, inclusion, and human rights within the city.

9. Political History and Civic Life

Political developments and civic engagement have played significant roles in shaping Burlington. This theme will delve into the city's governance, the expansion of citizenship rights, notable political events and personalities, and the active participation of its citizens.

10. City Growth and Influence on the Nation

Burlington's growth from subarctic plains to village to town to Queen City is an important story that we will place within the state and national context. We explore how local developments have contributed to broader state, regional and national trends, demonstrating the city's importance beyond its borders.