The article 'Historic Morgan County Archives: Unlocking Local History' offers a comprehensive insight into the Morgan County Archives, a significant repository of historical records dating back to 1819.
Located in the Bank Street-Old Decatur Historic District, this facility is dedicated to preserving and providing access to government records, rare books, genealogical data, and donated collections. Established in 1995 by the Morgan County Commission, the Archives plays a crucial role in safeguarding the county's rich heritage.
The article delves into the collections and holdings of the Archives, its unique architectural features, and the funding mechanisms supporting its operations.
By illuminating the invaluable resources and contributions of the Archives, the article underscores its pivotal role in unraveling the local history of Morgan County.
Key Takeaways
- The Morgan County Archives is located in Decatur, Morgan County and holds records dating back to 1819.
- The Archives serves as a permanent repository for government records in Morgan County and is legally obliged to preserve and make them available to the public.
- The facility houses hundreds of volumes of historical and genealogical data, rare books, family histories, and newspaper articles.
- The Archives also contains donated collections, including photographs, personal papers, maps, and artifacts related to area veterans and the Civil War.
Location and Facilities
The Morgan County Archives is located in Decatur, Morgan County, providing a dedicated facility for the preservation and accessibility of historical records dating back to 1819.
The facility features a designated research area, allowing visitors to delve into the extensive historical records pertaining to Morgan County.
Additionally, the Archives offers photocopying services, enabling patrons to obtain copies of valuable historical documents for their research and personal use. This provision of photocopying services enhances the accessibility of the Archives' collections, allowing individuals to obtain high-quality reproductions of important historical materials.
The combination of a well-equipped research area and photocopying services underscores the commitment of the Morgan County Archives to facilitating scholarly inquiry and ensuring the broad dissemination of historical knowledge.
Establishment and Purpose
Established by the Morgan County Commission in 1995, the Archives serves as a permanent repository for government records in Morgan County, ensuring the preservation and accessibility of vital historical documents for public inquiry and research purposes.
The importance of the Archives lies in its role as a guardian of the county's historical and governmental records, ensuring their preservation for future generations. By safeguarding these records, the Archives contributes to the maintenance of institutional memory and the promotion of transparency and accountability within the local government.
Additionally, the availability of these records for public inquiry and research purposes fosters a deeper understanding of the county's history, culture, and development. Through its commitment to preservation and accessibility, the Archives plays a crucial role in upholding the heritage and collective memory of Morgan County.
Collections and Holdings
Custodianship of the Morgan County Archives extends to a rich array of historical and genealogical data and records, encompassing hundreds of volumes and rare books on local schools, communities, and churches. The collections also include numerous family histories, genealogical publications, and donated photographs and personal papers. Specifically, the holdings feature:
- Rare books on local schools, communities, and churches, providing invaluable insights into the early development of Morgan County.
- Bound copies of The Decatur Daily dating back to 1919, offering a comprehensive view of local news and events over the past century.
- Microfilm copies of other local newspapers, preserving a wide range of historical and cultural information.
- Family histories, genealogical publications, and donated collections, contributing to a deeper understanding of the local community and its historical context.
Donated Collections
Collections at the Morgan County Archives have been enriched through the generous donations of photographs, personal papers, maps, and artifacts from local citizens. These community contributions have significantly expanded the historical artifacts available for research and public viewing. Notable donated collections include the Judge Seybourn Lynne Collection, featuring photographs from the 1933 trial of Haywood Patterson, and the Maurice Jones Civil War Artifact Collection, containing artifacts excavated from around the Decatur area. These donations provide a broader historical context for Morgan County and offer valuable insights into the local community's past. The table below showcases some of the noteworthy donated collections at the Morgan County Archives.
| Donated Collection | Description |
|---|---|
| Judge Seybourn Lynne Collection | Photographs from the 1933 trial of Haywood Patterson |
| Maurice Jones Civil War Artifact Collection | Civil War artifacts excavated from the Decatur area |
Building and Funding
The funding and architectural features of the historic Morgan County Archives are as follows:
- Art Deco Design: The Archives is housed in the former Tennessee Valley Bank, showcasing an Art Deco design with a stone exterior and metal doors.
- Architectural Elements: Notable architectural features include a 17-ton circular vault door and exterior plaques honoring Morgan County veterans.
- Financial Support: The Archives is primarily funded through filing fees with the Morgan County Probate Court and the Morgan County Commission.
- Staffing: The facility is staffed by three individuals, including a full-time archivist, who ensure the preservation and accessibility of the rich historical records housed within the building.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Most Popular Research Topics or Areas of Interest for Visitors to the Morgan County Archives?
The most popular research topics for visitors to the Morgan County Archives include local history interests such as genealogy, historical community records, school and church histories, and artifacts related to area veterans and the Civil War.
Are There Any Upcoming Events or Exhibitions at the Archives That People Can Attend?
Currently, the Morgan County Archives is preparing to host upcoming events and exhibitions centered around local history, addressing popular research topics. These will provide opportunities for the public to engage with and learn from the region's rich historical records.
How Are the Records and Artifacts at the Archives Preserved and Maintained to Ensure Their Longevity?
Preservation at Morgan County Archives employs advanced archival storage techniques, safeguarding records and artifacts for longevity. Public access is facilitated through digital resources and research interests. Exhibition opportunities allow the community to engage with local history.
Are There Any Online Resources or Digital Archives Available for Remote Access to the Materials Held at the Morgan County Archives?
While the Morgan County Archives primarily offers in-person access to historic materials, there aren't currently online resources or digital archives for remote access. The Archives staff can provide assistance with specific research inquiries.
Can Visitors Request Specific Records or Items to Be Digitized or Made Available for Online Access?
Visitors to the Morgan County Archives can request specific records or items for digitization and online access. This preserves historical materials while expanding accessibility options. Preservation methods are employed to maintain the integrity of digitized resources.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Morgan County Archives stands as a beacon of local history, a key that unlocks the doors to the past.
Its collections and holdings serve as a tapestry of stories, woven together to preserve the heritage of the county.
With its unique architectural features and unwavering support from funding mechanisms, the Archives continues to be a vital resource for those seeking to unravel the rich tapestry of Morgan County's history.
Our Reader’s Queries
What is the history of Morgan County Alabama?
Land once belonging to the Cherokee Indians was used to form the county through the 1818 Treaty of Turkeytown. The original name, Cotaco, was chosen to reflect a creek running through the area. In 1818, the region opened up for settlement, attracting pioneers from Tennessee, Georgia, Virginia, and the Carolinas.
What is the history of Valhermoso Springs?
In 1856, Jean Joseph Giers took over the hotel and the land around it, giving it the new name “Valhermoso Springs.” Throughout the 20th century, people from all over the globe visited the hotel and springs in search of relief from various health issues such as rheumatism, insomnia, consumption, and skin, kidney, stomach, and liver ailments.
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