West Falmouth Archives
The West Falmouth Library Archives were created to document, preserve, and make accessible materials regarding the history of the village of West Falmouth. By providing access to primary and secondary sources, the Archives ensure that the cultural heritage of West Falmouth and the people and events that shaped it can be understood in a meaningful way by future generations.
Collections
The Archives house manuscript collections containing the personal papers of West Falmouth residents and other ephemera related to local history. This includes documents, photographs, correspondence, scrapbooks, newspaper clippings, oral history interviews, and realia.
In particular, the Bowerman-Gifford papers dating to 1673 are popular for genealogical research. This collection consists of the personal and business papers of two prominent Quaker families.
There is also a small collection of rare books, including diaries, first editions, and the logbooks of a local ship’s captain, Caleb O. Hamblin. In the Community Room of the Library hang antique oil paintings and portraits depicting the village’s early community leaders.
In order to preserve local history as accurately as possible, the West Falmouth Library actively assesses its current holdings and seeks new gifts in accordance with its collection policy.
Donating to the Archives
The West Falmouth Library depends upon the generosity of donors to add to its archival collections and enhance the collective memory of West Falmouth. In return, the Library will care for the materials permanently, as long as they maintain their authenticity and their physical and intellectual integrity. Although the Library cannot accept everything, all potential donations will be considered on a case-by-case basis. If you are considering donating to the Archives, please adhere to the following procedures:
1. Material should not be mailed or dropped off at the West Falmouth Library without first consulting with Library staff.
2. In order to maintain the historical context of the collection, items should not be organized, removed, or rearranged without consulting the Library.
3. Donors must sign a deed of gift agreement which transfers legal ownership of the records to the West Falmouth Library.
4. After approval for acceptance into the Archives by the Board of Directors, donations may be made in person or by mail.
Please also consider making a monetary donation in order to support ongoing care for the collections.
The West Falmouth Library Archives were created to document, preserve, and make accessible materials regarding the history of the village of West Falmouth. By providing access to primary and secondary sources, the Archives ensure that the cultural heritage of West Falmouth and the people and events that shaped it can be understood in a meaningful way by future generations.
Access Policy
- Fill out a registration form and present a photo ID.
- Complete a research request slip.
- Bring only the materials necessary for your research. You may use your laptop computer, camera, or cell phone. Coats, large bags, containers, and other equipment or bulky items are not permitted. Library staff reserves the right to inspect your research materials and personal effects.
- Notify Library staff of any photocopy or photography needs. Duplication and photography are permissible for private study only. For publication purposes, you will need to file a request.
- Written permission must be obtained by the West Falmouth Library for the publication of any archival material.
Always cite your sources.
Use
- To handle items, either thoroughly wash and dry your hands or wear nitrile gloves as provided by Library staff. Do not use white cotton gloves unless you are handling photographs and certain artifacts.
- Handle the materials carefully and as little as possible.
- Touch only the margins of documents and books or the edges of photographs.
- Use only one book, manuscript, or folder at a time.
- Maintain the order of the materials within boxes and folders.
- Keep materials flat on the table or with supports as provided by Library staff.
- Do not stack anything on top of, lean on, fold, or trace the materials.
- Food and drink are not permitted around the materials.
- No pens. Pencils and paper will be provided by Library staff for note taking only. Do not mark on the materials.
- No paper clips, rubber bands, sticky notes, staples, or tape of any kind may be used.
- Do not remove any item from its protective enclosure unless instructed to do so by Library staff.
Accessing the Archives
Links to a series of publications, audios, videos, and photographs.
WEST FALMOUTH LIBRARY
575 West Falmouth Highway
West Falmouth, MA 02574
(508) 548-4709
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