SAA Archives and History

SAA Archives

The records of the Society of American Archivists, which was founded in 1936, are maintained by the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Click here to view the finding aid. And if you have questions about the SAA Archives, contact our archivist—Derek Webb.

SAA History

In 2011, the Society of American Archivists celebrated its 75th anniversary. Explore the links below to learn more about SAA's history.

Presidential Addresses — More than 70 SAA presidential addresses presented in chronological order provide a unique perspective on the evolution of the archives profession and prevailing socio-cultural forces.

Timeline — Learn about significant people, places, and things in SAA's history via this online timeline.

Oral History Project — This project honors individuals who have contributed to the shaping of SAA by documenting their stories and experiences through interviews that supplement the “official” record of SAA. The video interviews and their transcripts will be deposited in the SAA Archives. Excerpts of interviews will be shared with members on YouTube and in other SAA spaces.

Trading Cards — Just like baseball cards, SAA is creating 75 cards featuring prominent people, places, events, organizations, and ideas that have played a major role in the association's history. Cards can be bought—and traded—at ARCHIVES 360°, SAA's 75th Annual Meeting in Chicago, August 22–27, 2011.

The American Archivist — This special online-only supplement captures the anniversary content generated during the ARCHIVES 360° conference in 2011.

History of SAA Leadership — Since it was chartered in 1936, a steady stream of strong leaders serving in a variety of posts have helped chart the course of SAA's history.