((PLEASE DO NOT reply to sender - Reply only to Tracy or to the AFHA-L@rootsweb mail list))) Date: Wed, 10 May 2000 14:33:40 -0500 From: Tracey Converse <converse@swbell.net> To: AFHA-L@rootsweb.com Subject: [AFHA] Arkansas History Commission and State Archives.... We all know the state of Arkansas is rich in history. We, Arkansans, have many treasures of our past all safely housed at the Arkansas History Commission and State Archives. These treasures, unique not only to Arkansas but to the entire Southeast United States are now in danger. The archives are under threat by those who are elected to protect them. The State Building Services has plans to move the Computer Services department into the area that currently houses the Arkansas collection. The precious materials now housed in climate controlled areas would in essence be moved to an unprotected space. Some of these records date well before the Arkansas Territory was established in 1818. No monetary amount can be placed on such documents, as the original Arkansas Constitution. Of all departments under state control, I believe strongly that you will find AHC to be one of best-run departments. I had the honor of working as a volunteer at the History Commission for several years. If anything, more room and monies should be allotted to allow more access to these records. The director of the archives, Dr. John Ferguson, has been in place since the early 1960's and he is solely responsible for gathering of this magnificent collection. Moreover, he holds tight to the purse strings! AHC provides an unusual service to the state. Not only does it house a bit of our past, but also it draws visitors to the state. I am a former board member of the Arkansas Genealogical Society and the founding member of the Arkansas Family History Association. I have been active on the web for over 5 years and know of the growing interest that genealogy or history has on the American people. I encourage thousands of researchers to come to Arkansas each year specifically to visit the Arkansas History Commission and State Archives. AFHA has a mailing list of over 2000 researchers who are actively investing their time searching out keys to our state's history. These people are retirees who are voters in this state or tourists who come to research but leave behind their tourism dollars. I urge you to contact your lawmakers and urge them to reconsider this position. Arkansas History is all of ours to protect. This decision lies in the hands of the State Building Services. Take a moment, right now, and pick up the telephone to voice your displeasure. The number is 501-628-5598! You may also want to call the governor's office at 501-682-2345. Do not let our Arkansas heritage be misplaced or worse destroyed! Sincerely, Tracey Carrington Converse FREE Genealogy Forms Online!!! http://www.ancestrycorner.com ****************************************** Webmaster of the Central Arkansas Library System http://www.cals.lib.ar.us ************************************************************* ______________________________