State of the art: A Q&A with the Smithsonian's new religion curator

DESERET NEWS
By S. Brent Plate, Religion News Service

The Smithsonian first permanent curator of religion. Peter Manseau holds a Ph.D. in religious studies from Georgetown University and whose many books include the history “One Nation, Under Gods” and the novel “Songs for the Butcher’s Daughter.” 

The place of religion in museums has a long, troubled, and often strange history. Whether devoted to art, archaeology, or history, museum spaces can provide a neutral, public space to see the role of religion in the variety of human experiences. With a major new initiative recently announced at the Smithsonian Institution, Americans will now be able to more clearly see the role of religion in the history of the United States. The Lilly Endowment has provided a $5 million grant to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History dedicated to presenting religion as a vital element in American life. [link]