Papers Reveal Glimpse of Life in Early Houston

Houston, TX. - A woman's perspective of life from the time Houston was founded shortly after the Texas Revolution through the end of the 19th century will represent the Albert and Ethel Herzstein Library's contribution to a group exhibit, "Archives: Houston's Best Kept Secret."  The Herzstein Library's "Mary Jane Harris Briscoe, Houston Civic Leader" draws upon Mary Jane Harris Briscoe's correspondence and papers to depict a glimpse of early Houston.  A member of the family for whom Harris County was named, she resided in the area from 1836 until 1849 and from 1874 until her death in 1903 and was heavily involved in civic and historic organizations during that period.

On display in the Julia Ideson Building of the Houston Public Library throughout the month of October, the "Archives" exhibit highlights the collections of 14 area archives.  The unveiling of Houston's "secrets" is sponsored by Archivists of the Houston Area (AHA!) as part of the national observance of Archives Week 2003.  Harris County Commissioners Court has proclaimed October 6 through 11 "Archives Week" in recognition of the importance of archival institutions as protectors of citizens' rights and caretakers of the historical record within the Houston area.

Archives Week events includes Family Preservation Day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, October 11. AHA! Archivists will be at the Houston Metropolitan Research Center to offer advice on how to care for family archives.  Houston residents are encouraged to bring scrapbooks, photographs, paper or electronic documents, audio recordings and clothing for preservation suggestions. 

As part of Family Preservation Day, archives professionals will:
· advise on how best to care for particular items for the long-term
· distribute free brochures relating to care of photographs, scrapbooks, paper and electronic documents, audio recordings, fabrics and other family treasures
· display examples of appropriate storage supplies, such as acid-free boxes, folders and tissue and mylar sleeves to protect photographs or other fragile documents
· offer tips about securing archival supplies, finding helpful on-line sites and locating Houston area archives
The Houston Metropolitan Research Center is located in the Houston Public Library's Julia Ideson Building, 500 McKinney.  The Family Preservation Day Event will be presented in the Harriet Dickson Reynolds Room on the first floor.