In the process of this project research, the need came to define what exactly a memorial did for a society. Through this investigation, I explored why memorials are created, the vitality of the process, why they succeed or fail, and what makes the best memorials.

A quote from a United States Institute of Peace report sums up this research most effectively:

"Memorial projects that encourage survivors to explore contested memories of the past, promote learning and critical thinking, and facilitate ongoing cultural exchange are more likely to advance social reconstruction."

This quote made it obviously clear that the most effective memorials are not just created in remembrance. They are constructed to inspire change in the surrounding community and cultivate healing. A memorial is not simply an ornate stone carving, but should be a place that stays with visitors long after they have left the grounds.

All the memorials in Milwaukee fill a mold that must be broken. None of them inspire change or help to heal the community. They did not involve the community in their creation. They are not interactive and do not allow the visitor to return home with emboldened critical thoughts. They lay testament to an event in history and nothing more. Memorials have become tourist attractions. There are many more functions these memorials are not fulfilling.

Other Memorial Aspects

One of the most vital aspects of a memorial is "truth-telling." It speaks of human rights violations or tragedies in history that should not be concealed. Remembering the losses and ugliness of history are equally as vital as remembering the victories. A memorial such as the Underground Railroad project attempts to do exactly this, and rewrite a national memory that has been twisted for centuries.

Working with the community and those who need the memorial most is also fundamental to the creation of the memorial. As we have found in the process thus far, working with community partners has been necessary to its progress. Community members have personal stories and connections that make this project much more meaningful. They offer insight and support to make the impact of this memorial the greatest possible.

Additional research was done on the history of Museums and memorials and why modern attendance to these historic sites is dwindling. A key aspect of this decline is the "boring" factor that museum-goers and memorial visitors complain of. A solution to this is to make the memorial interactive and prioritizing the experience. The main question for attracting visitors so the memorial can have the most impact became: How can we incorporate tactical learning and interactive displays into this memorial project?

The Perfect Memorial

All of this research inspired a list for "The Perfect Memorial"-- a bottom-line list for what is absolutely necessary in the final design of our project:

- Interactive/hands-on

- Something for all ages

- Use of technology

- Easily accessible

- Inspires contemplative and critical thinking

- Respects the descendants and memories of slaves

- Collaborates with community and flows cohesively with the rest of the community

We believe these components will give the final Underground Railroad memorial the most impact.