Preserving history

The University archives

By University of Notre Dame

March 13^th, 2023

The visual, audio, and written memories of the University of Notre Dame

University Archives stewards the memory of the University of Notre Dame as documented in letters, photographs, films, and other formats that preserve the historical record of the University and the growth of the Catholic Church in the United States. Archival staff build relationships and collaborate with faculty, students, campus organizations, University departments, alumni, religious groups, and affiliates to encourage the use and growth of collections.

Where it all begins

Located on the sixth floor of Hesburgh Library, University Archives plays an integral role in advancing Notre Dame’s teaching and research mission and promoting the scholarly value of the Hesburgh Libraries’ archival collections.

Remembering our founder

University Archives manages more than 60,000 linear feet of collections, including the personal papers of notable faculty, staff, and alumni, as well as the official administrative records documenting the history of the University of Notre Dame.

Influence on United States history

From the Civil War to civil rights, individuals associated with the University have been crucial to historic milestones in U.S. history.

This 1957 telegram cordially invites Rev. Theodore M. Hesburgh, C.S.C., to the first meeting of the Civil Rights Commission.

A 1959 letter from President Dwight Eisenhower thanks Father Hesburgh for his service to the commission and requests that he continue to serve as a member.

Documenting student life across time

An important function of the University Archives is to capture records of a variety of student experiences.

Numerous scrapbooks donated to the University Archives, including this example compiled by Grover Miller, class of 1916, showcase student life throughout the past hundred years.

The photo at the top left captures Knute Rockne during his student days.

Sports heritage

University Archives’ collections are rich in documentation of the history of Notre Dame sports.

From analog to digital

Critical to the University Archives’ scope of work is its ability to preserve and digitize a wide variety of historical media.

The present becomes history

University Archives continuously collects a variety of materials that document the activities of the University and that will serve as the basis of research for future scholars.