Reichelt Oral History Program

Oral history is the technique of gathering historically pertinent information through tape-recorded interviews.  Recent advances in modern technology have replaced traditional resources such as letters, diaries, and memoirs with spoken or electronic messages.  To prevent the loss of source materials, universities, libraries, and other public and private organizations charged with preserving history are collecting personal observations and memories through oral history.

The Florida State University oral history collection began in 1969 under the direction of Professor Edward F. Keuchel.  Renamed the Reichelt (Rye-kelt) Program for Oral History in 1999, the program honors the memory and generous support of history of Florida State College for Women [1905-1947] and Florida State University, the City of Tallahassee, and the State of Florida.  In 1995, the program expanded to include military experiences, with a timely emphasis on veterans and civilian personnel involved in World War II and the Korean War.  Our areas of interest includes military service as well as all lifetime experiences of the wars.

Interviews are conducted in person or by telephone, transcribed, processed, and archived according to professional guidelines established by the national Oral History Association.  Interviewees are encouraged to edit their transcripts for accuracy.  Each interviewee receives a final copy of his or her interview for personal records and family members.  The collection is open to the public Monday through Thursday from 9 AM to 3 PM, and by appointment.

For more information, read the complete pamphlet (which includes a request form).