What do the original clock hands from the Davidson Hall clocktower, beanies, handwritten poems, reports, mugs, handbooks, pennants, photographs by the thousands, newspapers, graduation programs, and original works all have in common? These items represent only a fraction of the variety of materials that comprise the University archives. For example, the archives hold the original 1850 broadside listing the subscribers who contributed $16,250 to attract the normal school to New Britain.

Many student publications, including a long run of the Central Recorder, Dial Yearbook, and various literary publications including the Helix may be found here. Patricia Pentfield's typescript of student life, 1886-1888, along with Miss Latham's notebooks and textbooks from the 1890's, provide a glimpse of college life over a century ago.

Sadly, the only extensive collection of presidential papers in the archives are those of Dr. Herbert D. Welte who was president for thirty-nine years (1929-1968). Dr. Welte's administration witnessed Central's change from normal school to college.

However, the papers of three administrative vice-presidents Cletus Clow, 1965-1975; Wilfred Croft 1975-1976; and Joseph Pikiell 1976-1984 are found here.

One of the richest sources of information is the Public Affairs office newspaper clipping file. These news articles cover all campus articles between the years 1955-1997. The thousands of articles have been photocopied onto acid free paper and are arranged chronologically.

For information about the archives contact Eva Wolynska 832-2086.

Donations of materials related to Central will be gratefully received. Contact Frank Gagliardi at 832-2098 for donations.