Revolutionary War Stories Meet Modern Mentorship

Posted June 7, 2024December 18, 2024 in Alumni, History, Stories

Reading Time: 4 minutes

From preserving the stories of Revolutionary War heroes to mentoring the next generation of public historians, Will Krakower’s work at Princeton Battlefield State Park and the Thomas Clarke House exemplifies the transformative power of history. An alumnus of Rutgers University–Camden’s Master of Arts in History program (Public History track), he has created opportunities for students to engage directly with history through meaningful projects and internships. Read the full story to discover more about his journey and impact.

From History to Mastery

When I began graduate school, I was already working part-time in public history with the New Jersey State Park Service. Having earned an undergraduate degree in history from Rutgers University–New Brunswick a few years earlier, I felt compelled to continue my education, driven by both my academic background and professional experience. My goal was twofold: to deepen my expertise in Early American history and to refine my ability to bring history to life, blending the “art and science” of public history. This pursuit led me to the Public History program at Rutgers University–Camden.

I credit the [History MA] program for equipping me with the skills and confidence necessary to thrive in the field of public history.
WIll Krakower

Bridging Research and Practice at Rutgers

At Rutgers–Camden, I had the privilege of working with esteemed educators such as Dr. Andrew Shankman, Dr. Wendy Woloson, and, most notably, Dr. Charlene Mires. My research focused on the turbulent early years of the American Revolution, particularly the efforts of the Continental Congress, State Councils, Committees of Safety, and the Continental Army to equip soldiers with appropriate weaponry and gear.

One of the most rewarding projects I participated in was with the Mid-Atlantic Regional Center for the Humanities (MARCH). Under Dr. Mires’ guidance, my colleagues and I re-created an authentic “Christmas on Cooper Street, 1918,” housed in the MARCH facility. This project celebrated the centennial of the First World War’s conclusion and coincided with a school-wide canned goods drive. We immersed ourselves in early 20th-century research to curate a festive space that evoked a family awaiting their soldier’s return for the holidays. This collaborative effort exemplified the best of public history: material culture, research, writing, and thoughtful curation.

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Shaping My Career Through Rutgers–Camden

My experience at Rutgers–Camden played a pivotal role in shaping my understanding of public history. Although I entered the program with some field experience, the mentorship and opportunities I received expanded my knowledge of best practices and enhanced my professional growth. I credit the program for equipping me with the skills and confidence necessary to thrive in the field of public history.

Creating Opportunities for Future Historians

Since graduating, I’ve maintained a close connection with Dr. Mires, which has allowed me to foster partnerships between Rutgers and the New Jersey Division of Parks, Forests, and Historic Sites. These collaborations have provided opportunities for graduate and undergraduate students to engage in interviews, projects, and internships. I am especially proud to see Rutgers graduates like Hannah Lee, who now works part-time with us, bringing exceptional talent and fresh perspectives to our historic sites.

Through these ongoing partnerships, I hope to continue creating meaningful opportunities for students to apply their skills and contribute to the rich field of public history.