Information from a source that helps us test a claim.
source
A document, object, image, or account we can examine.
inference
An explanation based on clues; it still needs checking.
migration
Moving from one place to another to live.
immigrant
A person who moves to another country to live.
estimate
An approximate amount, based on available information.
oral history
A recorded interview about someone’s memories and experiences.
community
People connected by a place, relationships, or shared activities.
ancestry
Family origins across generations.
primary source
Evidence created by someone who experienced a time or event.
Choose · notice · investigate
Culture, creativity & community
Music, art, food, languages, books, sports, and traditions tell stories about people and place.
Showing 12 of 30 resources
The dome and tall basketball-topped spire of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield.Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame; photographer not identified on source page. Image source ↗
Sports: basketball
Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame
Springfield
Basketball began in Springfield in 1891. The Hall of Fame explores the game’s history, players, coaches, and changing rules through objects and interactive exhibits.
A question to investigate
How can changing one rule change the way a game is played?
An archival photograph of an early volleyball game, shared by the International Volleyball Hall of Fame.International Volleyball Hall of Fame; photographer not identified on source page. Image source ↗
Sports: volleyball
International Volleyball Hall of Fame
Holyoke
Volleyball was invented in Holyoke in 1895. Explore how a local game became an international sport and how players, coaches, and organizers helped it grow.
A question to investigate
What would help a new game spread to other communities?
Championship banners overhead inside TD Garden, home of The Sports Museum; arena context.TD Garden; photographer not identified on source page. Image source ↗
Sports and community
The Sports Museum
Boston
Sports objects and stories explore New England teams, athletes, and traditions. The museum also uses sports to discuss respect, teamwork, and choices beyond the playing field.
A question to investigate
What can good teamwork look like when a team loses?
An archival photograph of candlepin bowlers, shared by the International Candlepin Bowling Association.International Candlepin Bowling Association; photographer or artist credit not identified in the image tag. Image source ↗
Sports: candlepin bowling
International Candlepin Bowling Association
Worcester roots; Massachusetts and New England
Learn about a regional bowling game with small balls and tall, narrow pins. Compare its rules and equipment with other forms of bowling.
A question to investigate
How does changing equipment make a familiar game different?
A crowd at a 2023 Cape Verdean Independence Day celebration featured by the Cape Verdean Association of Brockton.Cape Verdean Association of Brockton; photographer or artist credit not identified in the image tag. Image source ↗
Cape Verdean community
Cape Verdean Association of Brockton
Brockton
This community organization supports Cape Verdean and other immigrant residents through education and services. Its history shows how neighbors build institutions in a new home.
A question to investigate
Why might immigrants create community organizations?
The Cape Verdean Association in New Bedford’s cultural center building, a former theater undergoing restoration.Cape Verdean Association in New Bedford; photographer not identified on source page. Image source ↗
Cape Verdean heritage
Cape Verdean Association in New Bedford
New Bedford
The association preserves and promotes Cape Verdean culture. Explore connections among migration, the Atlantic Ocean, family traditions, and a Massachusetts port city.
A question to investigate
How can traditions connect a community across an ocean?
Festival participants outside the Madeira wine pavilion at New Bedford’s Feast of the Blessed Sacrament.Feast of the Blessed Sacrament; photographer or artist credit not identified in the image tag. Image source ↗
Portuguese and Madeiran heritage
Feast of the Blessed Sacrament
New Bedford
This community festival shares Madeiran Portuguese traditions through music, food, and celebration. Learn how a recurring gathering can connect generations.
A question to investigate
What can a community festival teach that a history textbook may miss?
An Azorean whaleboat under sail, featured by New Bedford’s Azorean Maritime Heritage Society; maritime heritage context, not identified as a Massachusetts location.Azorean Maritime Heritage Society; photographer or artist credit not identified in the image tag. Image source ↗
Portuguese and maritime heritage
Azorean Maritime Heritage Society
New Bedford
Historic Azorean whaleboats and rowing traditions connect New Bedford with the Azores. A nonprofit community group cares for boats and shares maritime skills.
A question to investigate
What knowledge is needed to preserve a boat as well as use it?
A workspace at the Brazilian-American Center in Framingham, shown on the organization’s About page.Brazilian-American Center, BRACE; photographer not identified on source page. Image source ↗
Brazilian community and culture
Brazilian-American Center, BRACE
Framingham
BRACE supports immigrants while preserving cultural identity. Educational, arts, dance, and community programs connect Brazilian heritage with life in Massachusetts.
A question to investigate
How can a community welcome newcomers while keeping cultural traditions strong?
Young people in a Cambodian Mutual Assistance Association youth program, featured by the Lowell organization.Cambodian Mutual Assistance Association; photographer not identified on source page. Image source ↗
Cambodian community and heritage
Cambodian Mutual Assistance Association
Lowell
A community organization supports Cambodian Americans and other Lowell residents. Explore how language, youth programs, services, and cultural activities help a community thrive.
A question to investigate
How can a community center connect younger and older generations?
Members of Lowell’s Angkor Dance Troupe wearing performance costumes.Angkor Dance Troupe; photographer or artist credit not identified in the image tag. Image source ↗
Cambodian performing arts
Angkor Dance Troupe
Lowell
Dancers teach and perform Cambodian classical and folk dance. Movement, music, costumes, and mentorship help carry cultural knowledge to new generations.
Sources checked September 23, 2026. Open the source for current programs, hours, access, and map updates. Historical maps may contain outdated language or incomplete representations of Native homelands.
