Whitney Library Associates

 2008 Programs:

1.  Wednesday, March 19: Frank Bigelow, Collector of Autographs (collections from MSS 54)

2.  Wednesday, May 21: Papers from the New Haven Fire Department (collections from MSS 75)

3.  Wednesday, October 15: National & Local Historic Personages: A Miscellany (collections from MSS 125)

To join the Whitney Library Associates please print out and mail the attached membership form.

The Whitney Library Associates was founded in 1994.  It is made up of members of the Historical Society who have an interest in the work of the Whitney Library.  The purpose of the organization is to support that work through membership fees and to learn more about issues relating to the Library’s collections and work.

Members of the Historical Society who join the Whitney Library Associates contribute $100 per year for this purpose.  Three programs are scheduled each year for members of the Associates.  These usually include a “behind the scenes” look at items from the collections.  In 2006, the Associates spent time examining New Haven Railroad manuscript maps, selections from our fine collection of bookplates, and the papers of Civil War Admiral Andrew Hull Foote.  These early evening programs also provide an opportunity for members of the Associates to meet the Staff of the Society and to enjoy an evening of discussion with like minded individuals.  Often members of the Associates have insights to share about the material being considered.

The funds raised through the Associates are used for library acquisitions and other projects in the areas of conservation, cataloging, and library development.  Most recently, an 1807 patent granted to New Havener Jonathan Mix was conserved.  This fascinating document is on vellum not paper and includes the signatures of President Thomas Jefferson, Secretary of State James Madison, and Attorney General Cesar Augustus Rodney. 

Thus far in the thirteen year history of the Whitney Library Associates, through the generous support of its members, much work of value to the Library has been accomplished.

All members of the New Haven Museum & Historical Society are invited to join the Associates.  Programs are also listed in this website's calendar.  Please feel free to contact the Whitney Library with any questions 203.562.4183 x.15 or jcampbell@newhavenmuseum.org.