NEWSPAPER CLIPPING FILES
The Archives’ largest newspaper clipping collection (over 250,000 entries) is the creation of Ben R. Walker – a Fresno historian, newspaperman, professor, and founding president of the Historical Society. Information in the files dates from 1850 through 1953, and topics include individuals and their activities in politics, social and civic events; obituaries; businesses, agriculture, government agencies, ethnic groups, schools, and towns in Fresno City and County. Walker also created special files documenting Fresno County’s participation (both military and home front) in World War I, World War II, and the Korean War. Entries are organized into 3x5, 5x7, and 8x11 formats.
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Additionally, in 2020 though a partnership with The Fresno Bee, the Society took possession of the entire Newspaper's morgue with more than 130 years of Valley history and journalism.
EPHEMERA
Ephemera are paper documents produced for a short, transitory life -- an item produced for a specific purpose and normally intended for disposal. The definition of ephemera comes to us from the Greek ‘epi’ (about) and ‘hermeris’ (day). Some examples of ephemera are letterhead stationery, tickets, menus, posters, advertising materials, calendars, programs, paper currency, invitations, theatrical programs, trade catalogues, invitations, postcards, and posters. These materials offer a glimpse into popular products of the day, their prices, how businesses promoted their products, who performed in a city’s cultural and theatrical venues, popular cuisine, different types of music that was in vogue, and the stars of the sports world.
Learn more:
An American Time Capsule: Three Centuries of Broadsides and Other Printed Ephemera
The Library of Congress presents over 10,000 primary historical documents as examples of the perspectives and beliefs of citizens during key events and eras in American history.
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The Ephemera Society of America
This non-profit organization’s website provides an introduction to ephemera through an array of examples, exhibits, and articles. Also lists events and fairs throughout the U.S. that focus on the world of ephemera.
ARTIFACT COLLECTIONS
From the imposing stature of a twelve-foot redwood statue to a sturdy wooden butter bowl and paddle. From a delicate baby’s christening gown to the symmetrical beauty of a Mono Indian basket. Objects help us tell people’s stories.
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The Fresno County Historical Society has been collecting and preserving history for more than one hundred years – and sharing these objects through exhibits that explore our region’s social, cultural, civic and economic history.
The Society’s diverse collections include:
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American Indian Basketry
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Quilts and Textiles
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Costumes
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Furniture
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Dolls and Toys
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Musical Instruments
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Decorative Arts and Paintings
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Household Tools and Equipment
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Agricultural Implements
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The Historic Fresno County Court House Collection , including the Cupola
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The Joss House Altar from the Sam Yup Association in Fresno’s Chinatown