What's Happening?
James Stewart Jr., the archives and special collections librarian at North Carolina A&T State University, is diligently working to preserve the institution's homecoming history. In anticipation of the university's 100th homecoming celebration, Stewart has
been sifting through numerous historical documents to showcase the evolution of the homecoming experience over the past century. He has been in this role for ten years and emphasizes the importance of A&T's rich history to students, faculty, and the community. Stewart is actively encouraging current and former Aggies to donate items such as pendants, textiles, sweaters, and cups to the archival collection. He advises individuals to carefully preserve their personal homecoming memorabilia, even if they are not immediately donating them to the archives, to ensure their longevity. The collection, which initially started with just one box a decade ago, has expanded significantly, now requiring multiple boxes for every few years of homecoming documentation due to the event's growing scale and the volume of collected items.
Why It's Important?
The preservation efforts at North Carolina A&T State University are crucial for maintaining the cultural and historical legacy of one of the nation's prominent Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). By archiving homecoming memorabilia and documentation, the university ensures that future generations can understand and appreciate the traditions, community spirit, and significant milestones of the institution. This initiative not only safeguards tangible artifacts but also preserves the narratives and experiences of alumni, like Robert Reid, who attended in 1952 and later became the first Black mayor of a city in Pennsylvania. Such stories highlight the profound impact of A&T on individuals' lives and their contributions to society. The growing size of the archives reflects the increasing importance of homecoming as a cultural event and a focal point for alumni engagement, reinforcing the university's identity and its role in shaping leaders and innovators.
What's Next?
Stewart plans to continue his work in preserving the recollections and documented memories of 'Aggie Pride.' The ongoing effort to collect items from past and present Aggies suggests a continuous expansion of the archival collection. As the 100th homecoming celebration approaches, there will likely be increased awareness and participation in donating historical items, further enriching the university's archives. The focus on documenting how homecoming is celebrated, recorded, and preserved indicates a long-term commitment to maintaining this vital aspect of A&T's heritage. The university will likely continue to highlight the stories of individuals who have made a difference, both within the A&T community and beyond, through these preserved records, ensuring that their contributions are remembered and celebrated.
Beyond the Headlines
The archiving of homecoming history at North Carolina A&T extends beyond mere record-keeping; it serves as a powerful tool for cultural identity and community building. For HBCUs, homecoming is often more than just a social event; it's a reunion that reinforces a shared heritage, celebrates resilience, and inspires future generations. The meticulous preservation of these memories, from personal mementos to official university narratives, helps to counteract historical underrepresentation and ensures that the unique contributions and experiences of the Black community are accurately documented and celebrated. This initiative also underscores the evolving role of university archives as dynamic repositories of living history, actively engaging with their communities to collect and interpret their stories, thereby fostering a deeper sense of belonging and pride among alumni and current students.
