New Haven’s growing community of archivists, librarians and preservationists has formalized its collaboration under the banner of the History Stewards. Founded in 2024, the informal group now counts roughly 110 members from institutions ranging from the New Haven Free Public Library to Yale’s Beinecke Library, the New Haven Museum, Evergreen Cemetery and the Ethnic Heritage Center.
Quarterly meet‑ups spark resource sharing
Four times a year, members gather for a casual meal and discussion. The gatherings provide a venue for professionals to exchange tips on preservation, discuss exhibition ideas and solve practical problems such as handling delicate mylar boxes or digitizing fragile photographs. As Michael Morand, the city historian and director of engagement at the Beinecke, explains, “No one place holds everything. When we pool our collections, the picture of New Haven history becomes much more robust.”
Jennifer Coggins, the Beinecke’s community‑engagement archivist, adds that these meetings have produced “lots of informal connections,” including direct referrals like, “I know exactly where you can find…,” which help researchers locate hard‑to‑find sources.
First‑ever New Haven Archives Directory
One concrete outcome of the Stewards’ collaboration is a publicly available New Haven Archives Directory. After the inaugural meeting in 2024, Coggins and Emma Norden of the New Haven Museum’s Whitney Library compiled a PDF listing the holdings of participating institutions. The directory is free to download and serves as a roadmap for scholars, students and any resident interested in the city’s past.
Looking ahead: more tools and venues
Stewards members anticipate expanding their collaborative toolbox. Plans include a dedicated Google group for ongoing communication and additional joint projects such as shared exhibitions. Upcoming quarterly meetings are slated for Albertus Magnus College, Connecticut State Community College/Gateway, and Southern Connecticut State University, keeping the gatherings within a short drive of each other.
Participants also report personal benefits. Seth Godfrey, reference manager for the New Haven Free Public Library’s Local History Room, says the meetings have helped promote the library’s resources and even sparked an interest in his own family’s genealogy, tracing roots back to 1905 immigrants from Poland/Lithuania.
Continuing New Haven’s historical narrative
While the America250 program marks a milestone in public storytelling, the History Stewards view their work as a long‑term commitment. Morand notes that major exhibitions such as “New Haven’s Unfinished Revolutions” will continue beyond the program’s timeline, extending into “America251, America252….” He concludes with confidence, “I don’t think there’s going to be a let‑down.”
The History Stewards exemplify how local professionals can preserve heritage, support one another and make history accessible to all New Haven residents. Their collaborative spirit ensures that the city’s rich past remains a living resource for future generations.
Original reporting: New Haven Independent — read the source article.
