We went deep into the MAH’s Archives with Archives Assistant Rebecca Snyder to learn more about the critical work being done there to understand our past. Read on to learn more about the stories living within the walls of the MAH.
People often ask me, what is an archive? It’s a carefully organized collection of historical objects. The role of archivists like me is to preserve and protect these pieces of history, ensuring they remain accessible for future generations of researchers.
We work tirelessly to manage collections donated by the community, making sure the materials are stored in physical spaces designed for long-term preservation. Common items in the MAH’s archives include paper-based documents, photographs, artwork, and even objects with historical significance. In today’s digital age, we also focus on digitizing collections, scanning documents, and adding metadata to ensure that items can be found easily in an online database.
History that’s Accessible to All Archives are for everyone! Archives provide access to materials that are otherwise difficult or impossible to find, making them invaluable resources for anyone looking to learn more about a specific topic or historical period. People use archives to explore family histories, understand cultural movements, or even uncover forgotten details about the past. Archives open doors to stories and experiences that might otherwise remain hidden.
A Family History Mystery Solved One recent encounter at the MAH Archives involved two descendants of a local family who came to us to explore their genealogy. They were looking for old family photographs to help piece together a more detailed family tree. As they browsed the collection, they discovered photographs they had never seen before, and in doing so, they learned more about their family's history and connections to Santa Cruz.The descendants were very excited as they identified familiar faces in the old photographs and uncovered new details about their lineage, which they then shared with their extended family.
See for Yourself If you’re a member of the MAH, you can easily access the archives by contacting me or Jessie Durant our Archives Specialist to arrange a visit, guide you through the process, and help you locate the materials you're interested in. Additionally, open archive hours are available on Thursdays from noon to 4 PM, where a selection of materials is available for public viewing.
For those who can’t make it in person, the MAH Archives offers an online portal where digitized collections are accessible. Among the digitized collections are the full LGBTQ+ collection, selections from the Dan Dickmeyer collection, and select items from the MAH Photographs collection, which includes photographs of Santa Cruz from the mid 1800s to the late 20th century. The MAH team is currently working on a three-year project to digitize the MAH Photographs collection, which spans over 100 boxes and nearly 10,000 items. In two years, the portal is expected to host more than 10,000 items, further expanding access to this invaluable historical material.
As the MAH Archives continue to digitize collections and expand access, more people will have the opportunity to explore the rich history contained within. Whether you're researching your family history, diving into Santa Cruz history, or simply curious about the past, the MAH Archives are an open door. Help celebrate our unique Santa Cruz County history for generations to come.
