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
Sports, play & teamwork
Meet Massachusetts connections to games, athletes, and places where people gather.
Showing 12 of 13 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?
Musicians playing together at the Irish Cultural Centre in Canton.Irish Cultural Centre; photographer or artist credit not identified in the image tag. Image source ↗
Irish heritage
Irish Cultural Centre
Canton
Music, language, sports, and cultural programs connect Irish traditions with life in Massachusetts. Explore how shared activities keep community connections growing.
A question to investigate
Which traditions can be taught by doing them together?
Map of the railroads of the state of Massachusetts : accompanying the report of the railroad commissioners : 1899 — 1900Boston Public Library / Norman B. Leventhal Map & Education Center; Massachusetts. Board of Railroad Commissioners Image source ↗
transportation
Massachusetts railroads
statewide · 1900s
Follow railroad lines across Massachusetts at the start of the 1900s.
A question to investigate
Which towns appear to be rail crossroads?
Dig deeper · grades 6–8
Compare the map’s creator, date, purpose, scale, and missing information with a second map. Explain what changed and what stayed connected.
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.
