Cost Savings Tip: Accessible Archives and the Conococheague Institue

Accessible Archives was founded in 1990. They've assembled a database comprised of "Diverse primary source materials reflecting broad views across American history and culture". Most of the publications are from the 18th and 19th century. This data has all been scanned and digitized, and all text is searchable. Though the site is in the midst of a transition after becoming a part of Coherent Digital in 2023, it's still fully functional and a great source of information. The information on the site will be transferred to History Commons and ultimately, it will be even more useful as it's integrated into the new platform. 

I found the site particularly helpful for accessing some specific Pennsylvania newspapers not available elsewhere. These are but a few of the many collections available (see the link below for a more comprehensive list):

• African American Newspapers
• America and World War I: American Military Camp Newspapers
• American County Histories
• Native Americans in History
• The Civil War Collection
• The Pennsylvania Gazette
• The Pennsylvania Genealogical Catalogue
• The Pennsylvania Newspaper Record
• Reconstruction of Southern States
• South Carolina Newspapers
• The Virginia Gazette

The individual membership (prior to the acquisition) was around $99 per year. Since I already had a lot of subscriptions, I wasn't sure I wanted to spend the additional money. So I searched for discounts. I found a way to support the Conococheague Institute, a regional learning center with the mission to "to develop and foster awareness, understanding, and stewardship of the cultural and natural history of the Appalachian frontier of Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia" AND gain access to Accessible Archives! 

By joining the Conococheague Institute, you cannot only access all the collections at Accessible Archives, you also receive a membership card for free admission to events (with the exception of some of their fundraisers). On the 30 acre grounds of the homestead and gardens, they have buildings, re-enactments, archives, artifacts and a library. For those who cannot visit in person they even offer some virtual programs. The Institute offers learning opportunities for families and history buffs alike! The price for an individual membership is just $25 per year! There are other membership levels available, including student and family, as well as some higher levels. Each level has its own membership benefits. If you'd like to consider joining to take advantage of this great opportunity, view the membership options here. 

This cost saving tip is a win-win. Not only do you get access to a great wealth of searchable data (no matter where you live) but membership supports a worthy cause. Just in case you're wondering how to pronounce the name of the Institute, per the website: "In the Lenape language it is translated as 'Water of many turns' and it is phonetically pronounced as 'KAH-no-KAH-cheek'. Today locals pronounce it as 'Conica-jig'." I you live within driving distance, with so many learning programs, this would make for great family day trips!

Image by Michal Jarmoluk from Pixabay