10 September 2005

New Orleans Archives Safe!

Wow. When I heard about the trouble the archivists were having even getting to the archives, I have to agree with the sentiments of the Assistant Archivist when she says, "The fact that the archives have survived leaves us almost delerious with relief."

Really, it is amazing. The city archives (which includes 19th century Orleans Parish court records) "are housed in the basement of the Main Library, some 18 feet below sea level" in a building 4 blocks from the Dome. While the branch libraries took a considerable beating (about half are underwater), there was minimal damage to the main branch and no apparent looting (aside from one van stolen from the lot).

Maybe it's my inner history and library geeks talking, but this news makes me much happier than the odd dog being reunited with its owner.

No comments: