 |
| Spencer at the entrance to the National Archives. |
I didn't know what to expect when I signed Spencer up for the National Archives of Atlanta's yearlong American history class for homeschooled students. I knew it would be a lot of lecturing. I had heard it was rigorous and highly academic. I also knew he would be expected to participate in the National History Day competition-- but I didn't tell him about that part!
 |
| Engraved on the emblem, "Littera Scripta Manet;" which means "Written Letter Remains." |
Luckily for us, the first day was phenomenal. Spencer was happy and enthusiastic about the experience, and I loved seeing him interested and thoughtful. He even smiled-- twice! To top it off, he already has an idea for his National History Day competition research paper. As one who LOVES writing research papers (Yes, I am that person), I am over the moon with joy.
The teacher, Joel Walker, is a devoted, experienced, and enthusiastic teacher and archivist. As he led us through the history of colonial America, we read a slave ship's document and were able to see the original (!). We read a copy of the Proclamation of 1763, which took away all that the colonists had been fighting for during the French and Indian War because it forbade the colonists from moving west into former French territory! Joel said he got shivers whenever he touched this document because it was the beginning of the colonists' discontent with their King and one of the seeds of the revolution. Spencer and I were smitten with Joel's enthusiasm.
 |
| This year's theme for National History Day Competition: Conflict & Compromise |
Not only did we receive a unique tour of the archives, but Spencer and I were thrilled with the idea of looking through boxes of history and being able to form our own opinions and become true historians through researching primary sources. They had NASA documents, school integration documents, draft cards (including that of Louie Armstrong), Navy documents regarding German submarines off the coast of the United States during WWII, and MANY more federal records.
Our class was small, but enthusiastic. Questions from parents and students were encouraged during the five hours of our class. I cannot help but compare it to my own history classes-- full of bored teenagers and teachers with so little time and so much to cover.
Homeschooling isn't perfect. I suppose nothing is. But today . . . for Spencer . . . was one of those rare perfect days. So many new thoughts and possibilities. Wondrous.
 |
| Wow! A 1918 government letter documenting the detention of Lily Busch at our country's border due to her German nationality. (Busch Beer, anyone?) |
