For this assignment, I explored the Lathrop-Shannon House in Decatur County, focusing on Good Health and Well-Being. Historical museum artifacts—such as 19th-century chamber pots, rope beds, and early domestic tools—offer a clear window into early sanitation and living conditions. By contrasting primitive historic hygiene methods with modern infrastructure, the museum highlights how drastically public health and community well-being have advanced over time.
I chose this institution because it is a vital part of my local community in Greensburg. Exploring the town’s history through hands-on artifacts gave me a deeper personal connection to the pioneers who built our area. Seeing familiar local spots paired with their historical photo comparisons through the stereoscope made our history feel tangible and meaningful.
To complete this project, I used PowerPoint to structure and visually arrange my findings, integrating photos taken during my museum tour. I also applied core graphic and interior design principles—including contrast, emphasis, harmony, and balance—to evaluate the museum’s exhibit layout, while utilizing online research tools to align local history with Good Health and Well-Being.
Through this project, I learned how design principles shape the visitor experience, discovering both the strengths of immersive, interactive displays and the visual flaws of unorganized layouts. Most importantly, I gained a new perspective on how even niche, local history can reflect universal human progress in public health and well-being.
