My thoughts have just turned from saying good-bye to a friend; someone I had been given the opportunity to know through my work at the Archives. She and her husband had given of their time to help us organize materials here at the Archives and the Lord recently took her from us. The pastor s homily at her memorial service reminded me of the limited time each of us has and how, sooner or later, we will all become part of history as we leave the material for the heavenly.
One of the blessings I have had in my life is to be a part of preserving history for the present and the future. Being a part of building a legacy - whether that is a deliberate effort like the Sesquicentennial Oral History Project (described in this issue), stopping by to survey a new cache of photographs, or the routine collecting of area organizational newsletters and clippings for our topical file - it is exciting to know that it will be helpful to others.
The dramatic increase in the numbers of patrons who use the archives is a testament to the importance of archives. Since we moved to a 9-5 schedule in January there has been a 35% increase in the number of people we serve. College students exploring the turbulent 60s, businesses checking out property histories for environmental risk, scholars writing a book: they have all been faces we have seen.
Unfortunately, one of the faces we will not be seeing anymore is that of Collections Archivist Jenifer Smith Holman. Her departure is a great loss to the Joint Archives; we have benefited from her talents and skills for over three years. We bid her well in this new phase of her life.
In the coming sixteen months Holland, Michigan, will be going through a new phase of its history too. The Sesquicentennial, which we have heard about from time to time, is getting into high gear. The Joint Archives of Holland is looking forward to its role by participating in projects which will provide a lasting legacy.
As we all think about how our life and times will be remembered and get excited for the celebrations ahead, it is my hope that you will feel the gentle assurance that was such a part of the service for my friend today.
Larry J. Wagenaar