What do you do?
I am a Reference Archivist—I conduct research and reply to inquiries about our collections received via e-mail, telephone, mail, and fax. I also assist patrons who visit the Archives to review our collections.
Favorite spot in DC to recommend to visitors:
United States Botanic Garden. Any time of year, inside or out, it is a peaceful place for contemplation.
Also, The Great Hall located within the Library of Congress’ Thomas Jefferson Building—it is a breathtaking entry to the wonders within.
Collection favorites:
The holdings of the Smithsonian Institution Archives represent a microcosm of Institution’s broad interests. For example, the Columbian Institute Records, represents some of the oldest materials we hold. Among these records you will find hand-written correspondence of John Quincy Adams, Thomas Law, and Edward Cutbush, to name a few. One unremarkable morning I happened upon a letter from Thomas Jefferson, and instantly the day became noteworthy.
Record Unit 95, our Photograph Collection, is also a favorite. This collection includes images of the Smithsonian and the National Mall in Washington D.C. from the 1850’s to the present. I find it fascinating to view the development of the Institution and the evolution of the landscape over more than 150 years. A small sample of the images in this collection may be viewed here.
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