ABSTRACT
Public service values are an important part of public administration theory and practice. In the United States sites of collective memory are operated by both public and private organizations. As governmental organizations partner with non-governmental organizations in creating, preserving, and administering these sites, it is important that they be transparent about the organization that is speaking. Are the narratives presented at such sites’ official histories endorsed by the government or are they the work of interested private actors? This project explores the creation and administration of sites of collective memory dedicated to specific presidents of the United States. It is important that we understand why and how these individuals and groups have come to be involved in this important work. Sites of collective memory can persist for generations; however, the memory of who created them and for what purpose is frequently obscured to those who encounter them. More transparency in these spaces is necessary to provide visitors greater insight into why these sites were created. An increased understanding of the history and administration of sites of collective memory will illuminate why certain perspectives are emphasized at some sites and why others are devalued or ignored altogether.
