FISHERS -- The newest exhibit at Conner Prairie Interactive History Park is not just about history - it's also about science, technology, engineering and math.
Now open to the public, 'Create.Connect' - a four-part indoor attraction - illustrates the stories of early aviators, inventors and engineers. From Amelia Earhart's stint as a counselor at Purdue University to the Ball Brothers of Muncie, visitors are invited to explore innovation at activity stations and digital displays.
'It's all interactive,' said Catherine Hughes, director of interpretation and evaluation at Conner Prairie. 'We wanted to start with tried-and-true science activities.'
A $2.3 million grant from the National Science Foundation and funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services helped pay for the new attraction, which officials say is the first exhibit in the country to marry history and STEM principles.
Conner Prairie is the second history museum ever funded by the science foundation, said Cathryn Ferree, vice president of exhibits, programs, interpretation and facilities.
Exhibits at the Science Museum of Minnesota served as a template for the space, Hughes said, and Indiana history adds local flair.
The indoor exhibit gives Conner Prairie a place to display pieces and photographs that were once kept in storage. An original 19th century Flint & Walling windmill is now on display, and so are still photographs from a silent movie filmed at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
The photographic images show hot air balloonists who tested their speeds at the track. 'The Speedway itself was used for airshows in the early 1900s,' Hughes said, pointing to a section of the exhibit that highlights the contributions of female aviators.
Photographs of Harriet Quimby, the first woman to gain a pilot's license, are paired with interactive stations where girls are encouraged to test their flying skills.
Shining a spotlight on female aviators is part of an effort to break down stereotypes, Hughes said. The history park also has launched a new summer camp for girls who want to learn more about science and technology. Project Lead the Way Gateway Academy for girls kicks off on June 16.
In the new space, history interpreters are helping visitors learn more about the Rural Electrification Act of 1935 by building electric currents. Other volunteers are there to help kids build windmills at a station dedicated to the evolution of wind farms.
On June 28, the museum will unveil a renovated Craft Corner and Discovery Station where, a few feet away from the new 'Create.Connect' exhibit, kids - some in period costume - draw and build their own versions of Prairietown.
The Conner Prairie Alliance, a women's organization that supports park projects and programs, raised $60,000 to renovate the area.
Changes were made to Discovery Station and Craft Corner after parents told the history park they wanted a kid-friendly space made with natural materials.
'In both spaces you really want to get in the action,' said Brian Mancuso, director of exhibits at Conner Prairie.
This summer visitors are invited the history park's Curiosity Fair from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on June 14 and 15. This year's fair will feature the Wonder Wheels BMX stunt team, a potato cannon and a deconstruction zone where kids can dissect electronics.
'We are finding people think it's appropriate to have science at Conner Prairie,' Hughes said. 'They don't see a difference between science and history learning, it's all learning.'
Call Star reporter Cara Anthony at (317) 444-6049. Follow her on Twitter @CaraRAnthony.
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