Out of the Clock Tower



Hello and welcome to the Greene County Archives' blog, "Out of the Clock Tower".  Please join us as we share information on archival issues, news, special events, and highlights from our collection.

Before the archives program began in Greene County in 1996, permanent records were stored in every conceivable space, in basements, garages, and closets. Usually they were in boxes of various shapes and sizes, although seldom adequately labeled, but occasionally they were just in loose piles of books and papers. Most notable were the old records stuffed into the clock tower of the County Courthouse, where they shared their home with pigeon droppings.

Now, there is a clean, environmentally controlled, well appointed location for the county archives, where our historical records are housed in standard sized boxes on steel shelves. We have taken note of their journey in the name for our blog.

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May 26

Welcome our new Administrative Assistant, Lori Harris!

Posted on May 26, 2022 at 2:12 PM by Melissa Dalton

An introduction is in order, as I am the new Administrative Assistant at the Archives. My name is Lori Harris. Life has given me a variety of experiences to learn from. I grew up on a farm just outside of Springfield.

Family farm of Lori Harris (JPG)

Family Farm of Lori Harris, just outside of Springfield, Ohio

As I registered for Clark State Community College’s Police Academy, I met Iain Harris. Graduation rolled around and we were engaged. We have been married 30 years this June and have three children.

Children of Lori Harris (JPG)

Children of Lori Harris, 2011

Life can have a hectic pace while raising kids, working, and taking care of a household. Over the years, I found myself returning to an early passion time and time again. Finding out that I had ancestors active in so many of the early struggles to found America enthralled me. Ironic considering that my husband is British! I have had an unquenchable curiosity for family history since a teen, so I finally decided to jump into genealogy. After 30-plus years, it was about time!

I started by joining D.A.R. (Daughters of the American Revolution). I continued with webinars, local genealogy groups, and constant searching. I graduated with the Certificate in Genealogical Research program from Boston University-Continuing Professional Education, in May of 2021. I started volunteering with Greene County Archives in July of that year as well.

Ancestor of Lori Harris (JPG)

Ancestor of Lori Harris

I found that the preservation of family history documents and histories has a huge unmet need. Many unique and fascinating stories could be lost if we do not help bridge the digital divide between generations. The Archives is a unique opportunity to experience original records and how to maintain them. I am happy to be a part of preserving Greene County’s history. I’m a new face at the Archives, so feel free to introduce yourself when you stop in.

Until Next Time!

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