The historical archives of Judson College in Marion will be safe, preserved and accessible going forward, according to officials at Judson and Samford University in Birmingham.
The Special Collection department of Samford’s library has added Judson’s archives to its mission of “preserving, protecting and providing access” to the history of Alabama Baptist institutions Howard College and Samford University.
The truckload of records, catalogs, yearbooks, scrapbooks and photographs arrived at Samford May 6.
Judson president Daphne Robinson announced the decision via email to alumnae May 5.
“Judson College and the board of trustees are pleased to announce that the historical archives relating to the Judson story and its history with Alabama Baptists is being added to the Special Collection department of the Samford Library at Samford University. … We are grateful for the collaboration with Samford to preserve these materials for all to know the Judson story.”
‘We are honored’
Kimmetha Herndon, dean of Samford’s library and curator of Special Collection, said, “We are honored that we are going to have this opportunity to preserve Judson’s history, our sister institution, and add it alongside Samford’s history as well as Alabama Baptists’ history.
“That [the archives are] here at Samford ensures preservation well into the future,” she said. “Alabama Baptists can come and see the beginnings of both Howard and Judson.”
Robinson added that even though it has been a sad journey, “God has brought us all to work as one and all three Alabama Baptist schools can remain forever connected since the University of Mobile has Judson’s transcripts and Samford now has the archives.”
Sharing about the team at Judson who worked to prepare the archives for transport, Herndon said, “Their commitment and love for Judson is unparalleled. We appreciate all they’ve done to help us take it on. The archives are in good order and will be easy for Judson alum and friends of Judson to still interact and engage with their historical pieces.”
Jennifer Taylor, chair of Samford University’s Special Collection and university archivist, also expressed appreciation to the Judson team.
“They have poured themselves into that collection and worked hard making sure it is preserved and making sure it was prepared to transfer to Samford.
“Their love for Judson is evident in the work they did for their history,” Taylor said. “We were sad to hear about Judson’s closing because we love Judson but are honored to assist in preserving Judson’s history.”
Between various classes at Samford and the historical tours that come through the library, “we’ve been telling Judson’s story for a long time,” Taylor added.
“We are closely connected and honored to be able to continue sharing the story. A lot of hard work has been put in to make sure the story continues.”
Samford’s administration is dedicated to making available the space and resources needed to properly preserve the archives, Taylor said.
“The records are going to be kept secure according to guidelines Samford already has in place and will be accessible to researchers,” she explained. “Judson alumnae are welcome to come and use the resources and we encourage them to set up an appointment to see it.”
In related news
Robinson also reported:
- The business side of Judson continues to operate with a few staff members and security team members remaining on campus.
- Judson continues to work with its creditors to satisfy its debt.
- Leaders are working with a real estate firm to find the best buyer for Judson and the Marion community.
“We appreciate all your prayers and gifts during this time that we seek God’s will in the transition of Judson College,” Robinson said.
To see the archives, call 205-726-2749.
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