Briscoe Center for American History: 50 Years of Preserving the Past

The Briscoe Center for American History at the University of Texas at Austin is a world-renowned repository for primary source materials on American history. With over 100,000 cubic feet of archival collections, the Briscoe Center is a treasure trove for scholars, students, and history enthusiasts alike.

50 Years of Collecting and Preserving

The Briscoe Center was founded in 1972 by Dolph Briscoe, a former governor of Texas. Briscoe's vision was to create a center that would house and preserve the historical records of Texas and the American Southwest. Over the past 50 years, the Briscoe Center has expanded its scope to include materials from across the United States, with a particular focus on the American South and West.

Vast and Diverse Collections

The Briscoe Center's collections are vast and diverse, encompassing a wide range of materials from the 16th to the 21st centuries. Highlights include:

• Over 10,000 cubic feet of manuscript collections, including personal papers, correspondence, diaries, and business records of notable figures from American history.
• More than 15,000 rare books, including first editions, signed copies, and rare maps.
• Over 500,000 photographs and images, documenting the history of Texas, the American West, and the United States.
• Extensive collections of newspapers, magazines, and other printed materials.

A Hub for Scholarship and Research

The Briscoe Center is a major destination for scholars and students from around the world. The center's knowledgeable staff and state-of-the-art research facilities make it an ideal place to conduct historical research. The Briscoe Center also offers a variety of educational programs and exhibitions for the public.

Impact on the Community

The Briscoe Center has a significant impact on the local community. The center's collections are used by local schools, universities, and historical societies. The Briscoe Center also hosts a variety of public programs, including lectures, workshops, and exhibitions.

Looking to the Future

The Briscoe Center for American History is committed to preserving the past for future generations. The center is currently engaged in a number of digitization projects to make its collections more accessible to researchers and the public. The Briscoe Center is also actively collecting new materials to ensure that the history of the American South and West is well-documented for future generations.

Expanding the Narrative: Key Figures and Collections

The Dolph Briscoe Collection

• Over 1,000 cubic feet of materials, including personal papers, correspondence, diaries, and political records of former Texas Governor Dolph Briscoe.
• Provides valuable insights into Texas politics and history from the mid-20th century.

The Lyndon B. Johnson Collection

• Over 100 cubic feet of materials, including personal letters, speeches, and meeting notes of former President Lyndon B. Johnson.
• Offers a firsthand account of Johnson's presidency and his pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement.

The Texas Women's History Collection

• Over 200 cubic feet of materials documenting the history of women in Texas from the 19th to the 21st centuries.
• Includes personal papers, diaries, photographs, and organizational records of influential women in Texas history.

The Mexican American History Collection

• Over 500 cubic feet of materials related to Mexican American history in the Southwest from the 19th to the 21st centuries.
• Comprises personal papers, organizational records, and oral histories, shedding light on the experiences and contributions of Mexican Americans in the region.

Preservation and Digitization: Embracing Technological Advancements

Digital Initiatives and Open Access

• The Briscoe Center has embarked on ambitious digitization projects to make its collections more accessible online.
• Over 10,000 digital images from the Briscoe Center's collections are now available through the University of Texas Libraries' Digital Collections portal.
• The Briscoe Center is also partnering with other institutions to create digital archives of important historical materials.

Long-Term Preservation and Conservation

• The Briscoe Center employs advanced preservation techniques to ensure the longevity of its collections.
• The center's materials are stored in climate-controlled vaults and undergo regular conservation treatments.
• The Briscoe Center also adheres to best practices for archival preservation and disaster recovery.

Engaging the Public: Education and Outreach

Educational Programs and Exhibitions

• The Briscoe Center offers a variety of educational programs, including lectures, workshops, and guided tours.
• The center's exhibitions bring history to life for visitors of all ages.
• Recent exhibitions have explored topics such as the Civil Rights Movement, the history of Texas, and the role of women in American history.

Community Partnerships and Collaboration

• The Briscoe Center collaborates with local schools, universities, historical societies, and community organizations.
• These partnerships help to promote historical literacy and connect the community with its past.
• The Briscoe Center also participates in public history projects and provides consulting services to historical organizations.

Effective Strategies for Research: Maximizing Impact

Planning and Preparation

• Consult the Briscoe Center's online catalog or visit the center in person to identify relevant materials.
• Contact the center's staff in advance to schedule an appointment and discuss your research needs.
• Bring a laptop, note-taking supplies, and any necessary equipment for research.

Effective Utilization of Resources

• Take advantage of the Briscoe Center's knowledgeable staff and reference services.
• Utilize the center's digital collections and online resources to enhance your research.
• Request reproductions of materials as needed, subject to copyright and preservation considerations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid: Ensuring Research Success

Time Management and Overestimation

• Allow ample time for research, especially if utilizing extensive or fragile materials.
• Avoid underestimating the complexity of research topics or the amount of time required.
• Plan to spend several hours or days at the Briscoe Center, depending on the scope of your research.

Respecting Materials and Handling Procedures

• Handle all materials with care and observe proper handling guidelines.
• Wear gloves when handling photographs, rare books, or other delicate items.
• Request proper support when working with large or heavy volumes.
• Do not eat or drink in the research area to avoid potential damage to materials.

Respecting Copyright and Permissions

• Be aware of copyright restrictions and obtain necessary permissions before using or reproducing materials.
• Consult the Briscoe Center's staff for guidance on copyright and intellectual property rights.
• Acknowledge the Briscoe Center as the source of any materials used in publications or presentations.