Continuing our celebration of American Archives month, today’s post comes from Christina James, intern in the National Archives History Office. Since it opened and began accepting records in 1935, the National Archives has had to face the issue of space. Housing the records of the Federal Government is no small task, even when only 1-3 … Continue reading Making Room for Records
October is American Archives Month! To celebrate the month dedicated to all things archives, we will feature weekly posts on the history of the National Archives. Today’s post comes from Christina James, intern in the National Archives History Office. Measuring 118 feet wide and 18 feet high at their peaks, the pediments on the north and south sides of … Continue reading Symbols of Significance: The Pediments of the National Archives Building
Today's post comes from Christina James, intern in the National Archives History Office. Walking through our nation’s capital, you will inevitably come across at least one structure adorned with triangular pediments, massive columns, or a majestic dome. Many of Washington, DC’s most iconic buildings and monuments feature these elements and exemplify neoclassical architecture. John Russell Pope, … Continue reading John Russell Pope’s Lincoln Memorial designs
Today’s post comes from Jessie Kratz, Historian of the National Archives. On June 19 the National Archives celebrates its 80th anniversary. Constitution Avenue Entrance with doors closed, 6/13/1936. (National Archives Identifier 7820634) If you have ever visited the National Archives in Washington, DC, you may have noticed two very, very large bronze doors that mark the … Continue reading Doors of Monumental Proportions
Today's post comes from Jessie Kratz, Historian of the National Archives. June 19 marks the anniversary of the establishment of the National Archives. On June 19, 1934, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed legislation creating the National Archives. It was the culmination of a 25-year campaign by the historical community to create a National Archives building … Continue reading Happy Birthday National Archives
Rick Blondo, management and program analyst at the National Archives, reflects on the logistics of maintaining records in the sweltering humidity that is summer in Washington, DC. Summer in Washington can be a wilting experience for tourists and locals alike, but not so for the holdings maintained in the National Archives. The National Archives was … Continue reading A warning from the Surgeon General about air conditioning
