Front of House is an occasional series where we’ll highlight some of the public services provided by the staff and volunteers of the Historical Society of Washington, D.C., as well as post about the eternal quest to fulfill reference queries that have us intrigued, delighted – or, in some cases, stumped.
We’re kicking off this series with a Researcher Roll Call of sorts, featuring a few of the acknowledgements found in recent additions to the cataloged holdings of the Kiplinger Research Library. Thanks for tooting our horn, Oh Historical Society Researchers!
And while the thanks are incredibly lovely (and appreciated!), the real gratification comes from seeing how explorations among the photograph, manuscript, map, ephemera, art and other collections of the Historical Society make their way into books, lectures, blogs, films and other published material. Published or presented recently? Let us know so we can add you to the Researcher Roll Call!
- Scott Einberger acknowledges, “Laura Barry, research services librarian for the Historical Society of Washington, D.C., for assisting the author in securing select photos and documents.” (“A History of Rock Creek Park: Wilderness & Washington, D.C.”)
- Steve McKevitt thanks, “the staff members of the Historical Society of Washington, D.C., who have not only been of assistance, but have also given me encouragement…” (“Meridian Hill: A History”)
- Stephen Hansen writes that the assistance provided by the Historical Society, “was unparallelled in providing many of the images for the book…” (“A History of Dupont Circle: Center of High Society in the Capital”)
- According to John DeFerrari, “the Historical Society of Washington, D.C….was also indispensable… (“Historic Restaurants of Washington, D.C.“)
- Canden Schwantes Arciniega says “none of this would have been possible without … my colleagues at … the Historical Society and Kiplinger Research Library. (“Wicked Georgetown“)
- and Lucinda Prout Janke dedicates her most recent title to “the Kiplinger family for their generosity in making their superb collection even more accessible, and the staff and volunteers of the Historical Society of Washington, D.C., who helped at all phases of the book’s production.” (“A Guide to Civil War Washington, D.C.: The Capital of the Union”)
We’re blushing over here – and we welcome all those interested in D.C. history to make a research appointment! Tour the exhibit! Sign up for a program! And come on down to the Historical Society to meet the staff and the incredible cast of volunteers and interns who produce the programs and provide the services that membership and donations help support. Speaking of which …
The Historical Society of Washington, D.C. welcomes any and all donations towards library services and collections development. Your support, including that of membership, helps preserve and provide access to Washington’s history!
Make a year-end gift or join as a member today.