Marguerite DiGiorgio, a history major from Temple University, worked in HSP's collections to curate the document display Rails to Rockets. We checked in to find out what brought her to HSP, what she learned during her time here, and where she's headed next.

What’s your favorite thing about this display?

I liked that that we were able to tell a narrative about the importance of exploration and travel with two very different subjects.

What sparked your interest in HSP?

I had the opportunity to do research at HSP when I had been interning at Cliveden. I loved the thrill of being able to work with the original documents, so when the opportunity to work at HSP came along I couldn’t pass it up.

What surprised you about working with our collection?

The biggest surprise was the scope to which HSP collects. In this exhibit alone, there are pieces dating from 1627 to 1969. The diverse range of both periods created and topics covered make it an incredible resource for scholars of all types.

What’s next for you?

Next semester in school I will be beginning a capstone writing course that will allow me to graduate with a complete historical thesis. This summer I’m really excited to be starting an internship at Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library. It’s actually a horticulture internship so I’ll be doing both horticultural and historical work. Both are going to be really incredible opportunities!

See DiGiorgio’s handiwork in Rails to Rockets, open through June 7, 2019, and join us in wishing her the best in her future projects.