Volume 8 , Issue 26

Archiving Issues...

"Another great issue! Even though 'you Okies' live in another state, I still make a hard copy of every issue to archive in The Balmer Collections, Pittsburg (KS) State University Special Collections. I think there is so much 'connectedness' in the history of our Oklahoma/Kansas border towns that it is very important to document and save all of the stories possible on both sides of the state line for future generations.

A lot of people don't realize that hard copy, words printed on archival paper, is the ONLY true way to save our history -- then donate it to a safe place that will accept it, such as Pittsburg State U., Pittsburg, KS. (Always check ahead of time, as some places have limited space available and will not accept your materials.)

Today's technology is wonderful, but be forewarned. Technology changes so often, it is so easy to lose everything you write because recording equipment and the recorded material becomes obsolete, or fades completely. (Remember your home movies of the 50?) Unless you are using archival inks, even today's computer color photos will become nothing but a blank piece of paper in a decade or two.

Putting your history into safe hands is critical. Someone in our family, an in-law who didn't have the emotional attachment, threw out 'that worthless record -- a piece of junk,' while cleaning house. On it was the ONLY recorded voice of Grandfather Ferdi Balmer, and some of his insights, wit and humor. I cried plenty of real tears over that one, for it was irreplaceable.

Because you are smart enough to preserve your family history doesn't mean that others down the line will have that intelligence or motivation to pass it on. And they, too, can do naive things to destroy your family history in one quick thoughtless moment.

It is easy to buy archival, acid free paper at almost any on-line office supply company. It is not expensive. By saving every word you write on this paper, it will help future generations come to know their heritage.

So keep those stories coming for Linda. At least now you know there is a 'back up' being made, so having your history in safe-keeping in two places ought to assure future generations of your interesting lives!

Oh yes, if you want to keep those records at home for awhile, be sure to store them in acid-free plastic boxes, such as Sterlite brand. Ordinary cardboard boxes contain acid and in a few short years, can leech and discolor the paper. Make sure it is Sterlite brand (most discount stores sell them), as it is the only plastic I know for certain that is acid free." -- Rosalea Hostetler - The Balmer Fund/Prairie Connection, Harper, KS
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