Arlington Public Library announces the return of thousands of historic materials from the Library of Virginia.
Some of these repatriated records date back to the late 1840’s, which make these the oldest records in the Center for Local History’s collection. A goldmine for genealogical research, these documents provide a window into Arlington’s social, economic and agricultural history.
Boxes, housed at the Archives, containing thousands of historic materials from the Library of Virginia.
“These early records represent a snapshot of a time in Arlington we know little about,” said Library Director Diane Kresh. “We are excited to learn more as we begin to examine these records.”
The acquisition includes:
- Personal property tax records dating back to the late 1840’s
- Precinct and teacher registers from the early 1900’s
- Election papers and other miscellaneous records
Page detail of a voter registration book from the Library of Virginia acquisition.
Years ago, a large quantity of historic documents was transferred to the Library of Virginia for storage and safe-keeping. The transfer included a small number of non-Circuit Court records. With the recent renovation of the Community Archives, Arlington Public Library is now able to provide space to house and catalog these historic documents.
A sample of the collection will be on display during two public viewings on October 16, 7-8:30 p.m. and October 23, 2-3:30 p.m. at the newly remodeled Community Archives.
The Center for Local History's Community Archives is an off-site storage facility which collects and preserves materials that illustrate the history and culture of Arlington County. The facility is located at the Woodmont Community Center on 2422 N. Fillmore St. in Arlington, VA 22207.
Once the records are processed, they will be made available to the public. Over time, records will be digitized as part of an ongoing effort to increase public access to government records and archival materials.
Cover image: Personal property interrogatories from the Library of Virginia acquisition.
American Archives Month, which takes places each October, raises awareness about the value of archives and archivists.
I am delighted that these records have returned home. I hope that one day. We will recover all early records including that period as part of the District of Columbia.