Oral Histories and Recollections

Austin History Center staff, along with many dedicated volunteers, have made oral history recordings documenting the rich and colorful history of more than 400 residents and public figures. This collection also includes audio tapes recorded during historical marker dedication ceremonies, as well as tapes of local radio interviews from the 1970s. In addition, researchers have donated interview tapes created while studying Austin's history.

How to Find and Use

• Find oral histories with reference staff using an in-house database; and use items in person. Some oral histories are available in the Digital Collections (Preservica).

Music

Even before Austin declared itself the "Live Music Capital of the World," the Austin History Center began collecting and preserving examples of music from the local scene. Some artists include Kenneth Threadgill, Stevie Ray Vaughan, The Ebenezer Baptist Church Choir.

How to Find and Use

• Search Music recordings in the Austin Public Library Catalog. The collection can be used in person.