Eliot Gavin

Abstract

Preserving local history has always been a challenge for small communities. Traditional preservation methods like historic building preservation can be costly and take a lot of time for local historical societies. These historic sites are important to the culture of the local citizens and deserve to be saved. Using The Castle on the Hill in Dansville, New York, as a case study, oral histories will be captured to explore the role of oral history in preservation. The Castle on the Hill plays an important role in shaping Dansville’s identity as a town. In the past, the Castle has served as a hub for health and wellness in New York State. Now, the Castle stands in decay despite continued community support and precious revitalization efforts. Through three longform oral histories with individuals closely connected to the Castle, this research examines how personal narratives can shape public memory, inspire local advocacy, and provide insight into the cultural impact of lost or endangered historical sites. By analyzing themes of small-town identity, economic change, and generational shifts in historical consciousness, this study assesses whether oral histories can contribute to preservation efforts in meaningful ways. In doing so, it offers a framework for local historical societies and preservationists to consider oral history as a viable tool for safeguarding community heritage when physical restoration is not feasible.

Publication Date

5-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Student Type

Undergraduate

Degree Name

Museum Studies (BS)

College

College of Liberal Arts

Advisor

Juilee Decker

Advisor/Committee Member

Richard Newman

Advisor/Committee Member

Samaya Nasr

Campus

RIT – Main Campus

Download

Share

COinS