Oral History Project
Oral History Project
Oral History Project
With the mission to, "Preserve the Legislative Memory," the Archives of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, under the direction of the Bipartisan Management Committee and the Office of the Chief Clerk, launched its Oral History Project in November of 2004.
The interviews follow a biographical format, beginning with the subject's family background, education, and pre-House work experience. The interviews also cover the topics of campaigns, inter-personal relationships, legislative career highlights, and insights into Representatives' post-House careers. Additionally, the Oral Histories are a wonderful complement to the Archives' Personal Papers Collections and Committee records.
The oral history interviews are recorded and then transcribed by staff for the purpose of scholarly research by historians, students, and other institutions with an interest in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and the Commonwealth's political history. Transcripts of the interviews are deposited in the House Archives and are made available to the public online. The audio and video recordings are stored in the House Archives and made available upon request.
Click here to view a list of Oral History participants and read transcripts of the interviews.
View Editing PracticesAbout the Project
To participate in the Oral History Project, please contact the Oral History Coordinator at 717-783-3866.
For additional information, see the Oral History Brochure or view this 10 minute video about the project.
Our Interviewees
In November 2004, the House Archives began interviewing former Representatives of the Pennsylvania House. Many of the interviews contain a common thread of similarly shared experiences, such as budget battles, serving on committees, or the legislative process. The interviewees also share personal reflections, unique experiences, and considerations that went into prime sponsored legislation.
The interviews follow a biographical format, beginning with the subject's family background, education, and pre-House work experience. The interview also covers the topics of campaigns, inter-personal relationships, legislative career highlights, and insights to Representatives' post-House careers. Transcripts of the interviews are deposited in the House Archives. To participate, please contact the Oral History Coordinator at 717-783-3866.