The article below is from the April newsletter of the Georgia Archives. To sign up for the newsletter, use the form on the archive’s website: https://www.georgiaarchives.org/
“Delving Deeper: Exciting Additions to the Georgia Archives’ Library”
The Georgia Archives proudly announces the acquisition of a diverse collection of over a dozen new books, enriching its reference library and offering an expanded perspective on various aspects of Georgia’s history and culture. These additions are made possible through the generous support of the Friends of Georgia Archives and History (FOGAH), and, more specifically, the Kenneth H. Thomas Jr. Book Fund.
Kenneth H. Thomas Jr., a venerable figure in Georgia’s historical community, dedicated over three decades of his life to serving as Historian with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Historic Preservation Division. Throughout his distinguished career, Thomas displayed an unwavering commitment to preserving and interpreting the state’s rich heritage. Notably, his contributions extend beyond institutional roles; Thomas shares his wealth of knowledge and passion for history with a broader audience through a weekly genealogy column in the Sunday edition of the Atlanta-Journal Constitution. His ongoing involvement with organizations like FOGAH underscores his enduring dedication to the cause of historical preservation and education. The recent additions to the Georgia Archives’ Reference Library encompass a wide array of topics, reflecting the complexities of Georgia’s past. From the intricacies of legislative processes delineated in the Handbook for Georgia Legislators to explorations of pivotal historical moments such as the Chickamauga Campaign in River of Death, these books offer invaluable insights into various aspects of Georgia’s history, society, and culture.
Among the notable titles included in this expansion are studies examining the complex dynamics of race, gender, and power in the state’s history. Aggression and Sufferings delves into the tumultuous period of settler violence and Native resistance, shedding light on the formation of the Old South. Similarly, No Mercy Here examines the intersection of gender, punishment, and the establishment of Jim Crow modernity, providing critical perspectives on the complexities of race relations in the region.
Furthermore, the collection encompasses works that highlight the rich cultural heritage of Georgia, including explorations of music in Macon and the architectural legacy of the state. Something in the Water offers a comprehensive history of music in Macon, tracing its evolution from the early 19th century to the late 20th century. Meanwhile, Architecture of the Last Colony provides a captivating survey of Georgia’s historic places, spanning from its colonial origins to the dawn of the 21st century.
Those interested in exploring these newly acquired titles can access them onsite at the Georgia Archives in Morrow, GA. Additionally, the Archives’ online catalog provides a convenient platform for browsing and discovering resources remotely. For more information and to access the online catalog, please click here.
The Kenneth H. Thomas Jr. Book Fund was established following his retirement from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. Thomas remains actively involved in supporting the fund, ensuring its ongoing contributions to the expansion of the Georgia Archives’ selection. If you would like to donate to the fund, support the Georgia Archives, or contribute to the efforts of FOGAH, we invite you to visit http://www.FOGAH.org or utilize the donation button on http://www.GeorgiaArchives.org to make your contribution.
The Georgia Archives’ latest endeavor represents a testament to the enduring legacy of individuals like Kenneth H. Thomas Jr. and the continued commitment of organizations like FOGAH to the preservation and promotion of Georgia’s rich historical heritage. As repositories of collective memory, archives play a crucial role in preserving and making accessible the stories that define our culture and heritage. Through efforts like these, archives reaffirm their role as vital centers of historical inquiry and intellectual engagement, ensuring that the stories of the past remain accessible and relevant to present and future generations alike.