The originators of this website believe that all history is local, and that there are ample primary materials in the Archives of the Monroe County Historical Museum to tell the American story. This website barely scratches the surface of the several thousand photographs and several thousand linear feet of primary archival and manuscript sources housed in the Archives.
This site is intended as a learning and discovery tool, and is not primarily interpretive. The major motivation in placing the original civil war letters on the site was preservation, and the photographs are those which were viewed as interesting -that captured some essence of what Monroe was a century or more ago.
The current digital technology offers a new way preserve original sources, and this website gives a "peek" at the wonderful treasures in the Monroe County Historical Museum. The proverbial light is now shining out from underneath the bushel for all to see. The users are encouraged to visit the museum to explore further research opportunities.
We are confident that meaningful investigative possibilities are there for the student, the academician, the genealogist, the teacher, the promoter and designer, and even for those who simply wish to enjoy the pleasures of research and the satisfaction that comes with the discovery of some hidden corner of our community's past. Enjoy. Finally, this website is seen as a work in progress; teachers, scholars, and interested parties are encouraged to dialogue with the Museum Director and the Consultants for additions of primary materials to the site.
James DeVries, Professor of History
Monroe County Community College
