Using Oral History is USU's Museum of Anthropology Topic

Utah State University’s Museum of Anthropology’s “Saturdays at the Museum” series continues with a guest lecturer who will offer tips on collecting oral histories. Randy Williams, a folklorist and archivist at USU’s Special Collections and Archives in the Merrill-Cazier Library, is the guest speaker Saturday, May 30.

“We invite members of the community to learn how to preserve their heritage by learning how to complete their own oral history,” said museum worker Holly Andrew. “Making an oral history is just like writing in a journal and is another way to protect and share our cultural heritage. It allows us and future generations to learn about the past.”

 

Williams will conduct a workshop session from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the museum.

 

“This hands-on oral history workshop will provide information on all aspects of oral history work, from preparation through preservation,” Williams said.

 

Williams will provide tips on interviewing and transcription. Participants will have an opportunity to conduct a mock interview and get feedback on their efforts. Williams encourages those attending to bring notebooks to accommodate practice.

 

USU students and members of the public are invited to the museum any time during the 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday hours.

 

Andrew said the museum is able to offer the meaningful Saturday experience with Williams with support from a grant from the Office of Museum Services and the Utah Humanities Council.

 

“The workshop allows visitors to learn about preserving their past,” Andrew said. “Our guest will share her expertise and discuss why oral history is important.”

 

The USU Museum of Anthropology is on the USU campus in the south turret of the historic Old Main building, Room 252. Free parking is available in the adjacent lot, south of the building. For more information, call museum staff at (435) 797-7545 or visit the museum Web site.

 

 

Source: Museum of Anthropology
Contact: USU Museum of Anthropology (435) 797-7545