As a double major in history and anthropology at UMass Boston, I am thrilled to have the opportunity to implement what I have learned about interpreting history through the Freedom’s Way National Heritage Area summer internship at Minute Man National Historical Park. I applied for this internship because I knew it would be the perfect match for me, giving me a chance to combine research into the 18th century with learning about what it is like to interpret history to the public. My time at Minute Man National Historical Park has given me the opportunity to dive headfirst into learning about the daily lives of the people who lived through and participated in the American Revolution.

The history of the 18th century era in New England has always been my area of interest because of its historical significance in the overarching story of the United States. Growing up in Massachusetts surrounded by stories of the American Revolution, I am deeply interested in the lives of the people living through these events.

During my internship, I’ve spent time researching textile production. As a fiber artist, I wanted to learn about what this process would have entailed during the Revolution. When colonists vowed to separate themselves economically from Britain by boycotting British made goods, textile production became political. Women contributed to the war effort by knitting stockings and other garments for soldiers and their families. When I was given the opportunity to participate in the Living History program, I decided my contribution would be to demonstrate the hands-on process of spinning thread. Getting to show adults and children how this process worked was very exciting for me, as I was not just telling them about history, I was showing them history. One of my favorite moments during my demonstration was when a young girl wanted to know more about what I was doing. She asked many questions about the steps that went into the process of acquiring the wool, and became enamored when I gave her a small piece of wool to examine more closely. I was incredibly moved to be able to share this valuable history with a member of the next generation.

I also presented a program on Parker’s Revenge, an archaeological site near the Minute Man Visitor Center that rewrote what we know about what happened on Battle Road on April 19th 1775. This was my first time giving a tour to a group, and it was an amazing experience. I really felt like I was doing what I was meant to do. Though I was nervous at first, once I realized the visitors were there to learn about the history of this incredibly fascinating place, I was excited to share it with them. This program was my favorite one at the park, as it exemplified how often historical research involves historians and archaeologists working side by side to uncover hidden stories.

My time at Minute Man National Historical Park has led me to feel secure in what I hope to do with my career. I have learned from the inspirational staff at the park that teaching curious members of the public is a very fulfilling experience. Preserving history is ever important, and it was an honor to be a part of doing so at one of the most important historical sites in our country.

Written by 2025 FWNHA/MIMA Summer Intern, Hannah M. Santos