Since 1974, Conner Prairie has been a destination where people can experience history in a way that books cannot teach, as founder Eli Lilly envisioned. As Indiana’s first Smithsonian Institute affiliate, Conner Prairie offers various outdoor, historically-themed encounters and indoor experiential learning spaces that combine history and art with science, technology, engineering and math to offer an authentic look into history that shapes society today.

Conner Prairie gained a national reputation as an award-winning museum whose approach to visitor engagement set the bar in the industry. This visitor-centered approach, known as “Opening Doors,” tailors interpretation to guests’ unique interests and learning styles.

Building on this philosophy, to open doors to a more inclusive audience reflective of the local, state, and national communities it serves, Conner Prairie formed a collaboration with Asante Children’s Theatre, and established the Giving Voice Initiative, highlighting African-Americans’ Presence in Indiana’s History. Giving Voice programming engages guests with relevant, surprising narratives and civic discourse that connect the past with the present, revealing a more comprehensive view of history.