In praise of the National Archives

[gary]

Hi, I just spent this week in the National Archives to fill in the gaps of my research. You have to register as a researcher (bring your driver's license or passport) and sign some papers and you get a plastic, photo ID.

Most of my "gaps" were filled thanks to the patience and help of the staff of the National Archives. Besides reading rolls of microfilm, I also put in request for the service records of individuals and was able to read them (hint: wash you hands with hot, soapy water before going to the reading room. This helps keeps your oils/acids off fragile paper documents). I also got to read some order books for various Departments.

Anyway, upon entry, you register all electronic items including ******** phones, cameras, recorders, ******s. This is for your safety because if some scoundrel attempts to abscound with it, the National Archives Police won't allow them to exit unless they have a receipt showing they brought it in. Nice and safe and no one touches your stuff because of that simple procedure. Your documents (xerox preferably) as well as photos and bags and contents are searched on the way out (to ensure that nothing leaves that isn't suppose to leave).

I even got to look up an associate's relative and brought the service record as well as portions of the pension records down with me to Quantico to meet him. Bring plenty of $1 bills (but you can always get more at the NARA cashier). Founder's Cafe is downstairs and the friendly staff down there offers cheap eats (sandwiches both cold & hot, drinks, chips, cookies and other baked goods). They also have a locker room you can stash your valuables in (you keep the key and get the twenty-five cents deposit back when you leave) so don't worry about your fur coat.

I thanked their staff and especially the NARA Special Police for the job they're doing to protect our historical heritage. I'd love to have a special police job there and work on midnight or swingshift. Do a round, do plenty of research and write a book on company time.

[unionblue]

Gary,

Thank you for this report. I will make this a stop for me and the family when we get back to visit Washington again. Your comments concerning the security of the place was very welcome and makes me feel like some of my tax money is going to a good cause, the preservation of our heritage.

Sincerely,
Unionblue

[william42]

Gary, thanks for the info on the Archives. I had always assumed it would be difficult to get in there unless you had some sort of academic "credentials" or grant or something. You make it sound like it's fairly simple, and it's especially nice that the staff there are glad to help. If I get a chance to get to Washington, I'll definitely make a stop there.

Terry