I I began my journey in historical research during my undergraduate degree in History at the University of Northern British Columbia. My focus at this time was on environmental history in northern BC, specifically the creation of forestry centric boom towns, and the transportation of resources in remote areas. This interest led me to a contract position at the Central BC Railway and Forestry Museum, at which I eventually assumed the role of Curator. While in this role, I continued my education in the Cultural Resource Management Program offered remotely through the University of Victoria. In 2024, I moved to Agassiz to assume the managerial role at the Agassiz-Harrison Museum and Visitor Centre where I continue to share my passion for museums, community history, and accessible public experiences.

Presentation Outline

Guiding Principles of the Agassiz-Harrison Museum

o Vision
o Mission
o Purpose

How do archives fit in?

o Our Holdings
o Research Requests
o Volunteering in Archives
o Archives for Community

What’s Behind our Archive Door?

o Photographs
o Documents / Correspondence
o Diaries / Journals
o Newspapers / Other Printed Media
o Multimedia

Getting Behind the Door

o Online Access
o Physical Access
o Facilitating Research
o Working Towards Greater Accessibility

Discussion and Questions

o How do you use community archives?
o Are they often difficult to access?
o Do you feel the general public know about community archives?