Onondaga Historical Association Museum

Mission Statement
Onondaga Historical Association Museum & Research Center exists to inspire people's understanding that the history we share as a community is the foundation for our future together. Our purpose is to encourage a diverse audience from the neighborhoods of Syracuse and the communities of Onondaga County to explore, appreciate and utilize their past. To do so, we offer engaging exhibits and programs, pursue partnerships with other cultural organizations and community groups, and develop and care for a definitive collection related to local history. We operate a museum and research center in Syracuse, New York and are committed to ensuring the vitality of our historic urban location.

Vision Statement
...OHAM&RC is the leading regional destination for inspiration where people find meaning, value and delight from personal encounters with authentic objects, documents, stories and ideas from the past.

...OHAM&RC is a gathering place where engaging activities connect the past, present and future in ways that promote reflection and discussion on issues that matter to people.

...OHAM&RC is an expression of our community where unique programs and exhibits give people a sense of individual and shared identity and empower us to move ahead together with hope, confidence and pride.

...OHAM&RC is recognized for extending its exhibits, knowledge and treasures into our diverse community.

...OHAM&RC is deeply embedded in the communities we serve where history is cherished and strong public awareness of the usefulness of history demands a secure future for OHAM&RC.
Core Beliefs
OHAM&RC's Core Beliefs inform all decisions and actions of our organization as we advance our Mission and pursue our Vision for the future.

COMMUNITY: History is a cumulative process made up of the individual and collective decisions of people in their neighborhoods, cities and towns, states and the nation. Step-by-step, as choices are made, every local citizen shares in forging our communal identity. Our ongoing collaborat ions within the community facilitate dialogue about things that matter most to people.

INCLUSIVENESS: Interpretation of history must be inclusive of all peoples and must respect and reflect the contributions and perspectives of diverse individuals and gro ups in our community. Our effectiveness begins with a staff, board and other volunteers who reflect the community we serve and are valued for their many endeavors.

INTEGRITY: Maintaining the public's trust as caretaker of the county's history is of utmost importance and demands sound fiscal management and openness, fairness, creativity and excellence in all that we do.

STEWARDSHIP: Artifacts and archival records from our past offer an unparalleled opportunity to examine and understand history. Our role as custodians of irreplaceable collections demands the highest professional standards in their care and accuracy in their interpretation.

ACCESSIBILITY: Our policies must afford all citizens equal and broad access to our remarkable resources, both physical and intellectual, for the advancement of knowledge and nourishment of the human spirit.