How do I evaluate archival materials for my research?

How do I evaluate archival materials for my research?

Evaluating archival materials involves assessing their authenticity, relevance, and context. What specific materials are you looking at?

I'm looking at some old letters and photographs from the 1920s.

Great! Start by checking the provenance of the letters and photographs. Do you know their origin or who created them?

Yes, they belonged to my great-grandparents. How can I determine their historical significance?

You can analyze the content for historical context, check for any notable events they reference, and compare them with other sources from that time.

That makes sense! Are there specific criteria I should use to assess their condition?

Yes, look for signs of physical damage, fading, or deterioration. Consider factors like paper quality and storage conditions.