Derek Pridemore

Derek Pridemore Archives have been a part of humanities collective conscious for centuries. In this paper, I plan to explore in what new ways archives are being used, as well as look forward to discover what is next for the profession and the community that uses them as far as further engagement, outreach, usage, and technological improvements to support education for all age groups. Throughout, my paper will focus on how well archives have been utilized by the public in the past, and then analyzing how they are presented and used today by local communities. The future of archives in a diversifying and globalizing twenty first century will also be examined. Technology has revolutionized how communities access archives, yet archival institutions remain largely unchanged on the surface. What is essential for not only the long term survival of archives, but the survival of the idea of their importance to a rapidly changing community, both local and international? What technology is bein

History is my passion. However, finding my way to museum and archival studies involved a long, winding path. After serving in the Navy, I opened my own business. Unfortunately, the 2008 recession cut short my business career, but it also opened a new door for me. I utilized my G.I. Bill and attended university - where eventually, with the help of its excellent history faculty, I rediscovered my love for a subject I’ve enjoyed since childhood. The enthusiasm of my professors, plus their excellent lessons, inspired me more than anything had in my past. I poured my heart into my schoolwork. I became particularly interested in the history of slavery. In 2015, I explored the history of the Black Loyalists in the American Revolution for a paper. The research I conducted and the stories I learned has stayed with me to this day. Now, I intern in the museum field, and hope to one day have a career in a prominent museum or archive.