July Edition: "Inked in Liberty & Becoming a Citizen Archivist"
- provincialmills
- Jul 2
- 7 min read
Inked in Liberty: Cursive Handwriting and History
Independence Day is more than fireworks and fanfare—it’s a tribute to the bold, deliberate acts that shaped a nation. Among the most powerful of those acts was putting pen to parchment. Before keyboards and convenience, writing was a slow, intentional process—each word chosen with care, each stroke a commitment.
This holiday, we invite you to reconnect with that spirit. By handwriting either in cursive or calligraphy we honor the past not only by studying it, but by echoing its discipline and grace. This isn’t merely an artistic flourish—it’s a conscious return to the tools and practices that gave voice to revolutionary ideas.
Calligraphy is patience, precision, and passion—an art form where every curve and flourish carries emotional weight. Why not celebrate this Fourth of July by crafting your own handwritten message of liberty? Using a dip pen to put your thoughts to paper may offer a deeper appreciation for the tools and traditions of our nation’s origin.
Dip Pens: The Instruments of Expression
The dip pen is a classic writing tool that played a vital role in the 18th century. It consists of two main components: a nib and a holder, and it has been embraced by many generations.
The Nib
Like a signer’s quill, the nib you choose defines your message—bold, delicate, or defiant. The nib, the pointed part of the pen, touches the paper and comes in various shapes. For example, a fine nib can create delicate, intricate designs, while a broad nib produces bold strokes suitable for eye-catching headings.
The Holder
A holder, made of materials like wood or plastic, not only provides comfort but also reflects personal style. Many calligraphers personalize their holders, creating a unique writing experience that enhances their craft.
As you explore calligraphy this Independence Day, try various nib and holder combinations. You may discover a new writing experience that inspires your creativity.
The Palette: Looking at Inks
The ink, like the ideals it carries, must be chosen with intention—each formula, a different kind of truth. After selecting the pen, it’s essential to choose the ink that will bring your letters to life. Calligraphy inks are available in many colors and formulas, each producing distinct results.
Choosing the right ink is as important as selecting a dip pen. Experimenting with different inks can significantly impact your writing style and aesthetic, much like the historic documents that inspire us.
Bortoletti calligraphy inks are generally classified as drawing inks, but they excel for writing and calligraphy as well. They are designed for use with dip pens and provide a smooth flow, quick drying time, and vibrant colors, making them suitable for detailed work and calligraphy projects. While they may not fit the traditional definitions of gouache or iron gall inks, they excel in the realm of artistic and decorative writing.
If you prefer using fountain pens, we have some excellent inks for you to explore: Discover inks inspired by our founding fathers!
Crafting Your Own Tribute
Our forebears declared their beliefs in ink—why not declare yours? This Independence Day, consider crafting your own mini-declaration. Whether it’s a heartfelt note expressing gratitude or a personal manifesto about freedom, using a dip pen and calligraphy ink can make your words even more meaningful.
Start by reflecting on what freedom means to you. Find a beautiful piece of paper that complements your ink color, which can enhance the overall effect of your writing.
Tips for Successful Cursive
Practice Proper Posture: Sit comfortably with your paper at a slight angle to ease the writing process.
Warm-Up Exercises: Before starting, create strokes or letters on scrap paper to loosen your hand.
Take Your Time: Calligraphy is about quality, not speed. Savor the process and avoid hurrying.
Let Each Stroke Flow: Allow the ink to flow naturally from your nib to achieve smooth results.
Embrace Imperfections: Not every letter needs to be perfect. Those little flaws add character to your piece!
By the end of your session, you will have created a unique artistic representation of your thoughts on freedom while nurturing a deeper appreciation for the very tools that contributed to our nation’s foundation.
Celebrate cursive handwriting, independence, & liberty!
The Essential Guide to Becoming a Citizen Archivist for the National Archives
The National Archives is inviting individuals who are passionate about history and preservation to take part in the Citizen Archivist program. By becoming a Citizen Archivist, you can help keep alive the stories of our past and ensure that future generations access vital historical documents. This opportunity not only helps preserve history but also allows you to engage with your community and develop your skills. The skills needed for this program include a passion for history and preservation, and the ability to read and write cursive and script.
Why Become a Citizen Archivist?
The role of a Citizen Archivist is vital for maintaining our national heritage. Here are some compelling reasons to consider this program:
1. Contribute to Historical Preservation
Becoming a Citizen Archivist allows you to contribute directly to the preservation of a wide range of historical documents, such as letters, photographs, and artifacts. For instance, the National Archives houses millions of documents, and even dedicating a few hours each week can lead to the preservation of thousands of pages of material. Your role in preserving each piece contributes significantly to the legacy of our culture.
2. Access to Unique Resources
As a Citizen Archivist, you will gain access to archival resources that are not generally open to the public. For example, you might explore documents related to the signing of the Declaration of Independence or personal letters from presidents. These resources often reveal fascinating stories about our nation’s history and allow you to engage deeply with topics you find interesting.
3. Engage with a Community of Enthusiasts
By becoming a Citizen Archivist, you will connect with a vibrant community of like-minded individuals who also cherish history. This community often organizes events where you can share ideas and collaborate on projects. For instance, many archivists have formed groups focused on local history, sharing insights and resources.
4. Enhance Your Skills
Engaging in the Citizen Archivist program can help you develop valuable skills that benefit both personal and professional growth. You might improve your research skills by exploring specific historical topics or develop your writing and organizational skills as you catalog documents. These skills can boost your resume and enhance your overall career prospects.
5. Be Part of Something Bigger
Contributing to the National Archives involves being part of a larger initiative focused on preserving critical historical records. Your contributions can profoundly impact future generations, ensuring that they can learn from our past. Many Citizen Archivists find it inspiring to know that their work makes history more accessible.
6. Foster Lifelong Learning
Engaging with historical documents and narratives encourages a mindset of lifelong learning. As a Citizen Archivist, you will continually discover new information and perspectives, enriching your understanding of history and its relevance to contemporary issues.
What You Need to Become a Citizen Archivist
While passion for history is essential, several skills and tools can enhance your effectiveness as a Citizen Archivist. Here’s what you might need:
1. Basic Technical Skills
A basic understanding of digital tools and platforms is crucial. Familiarity with software like Microsoft Excel for organizing data, document management systems, and photo editing tools can greatly enhance your contributions. Many Citizen Archivists use these tools to organize vast amounts of information.
2. Curiosity and Research Skills
Curiosity is vital; you should be eager to explore historical topics and engage in thorough research. Strong research skills will help you locate necessary information, validate narratives, and effectively connect various resources.
3. Time Commitment
Like any volunteer position, a time commitment is necessary. Dedicating just a couple of hours each week or month can lead to significant contributions. The more you invest in your role, the more meaningful your impact will be.
4. Attention to Detail
Detail-oriented individuals excel in archiving tasks. Taking care in documenting information ensures accuracy and authenticity, both crucial for historical record integrity. Small errors in data entry can lead to significant issues in research.
5. Experience with Cursive Handwriting
Emphasizing cursive handwriting is important because numerous archival records are written by hand. If you take pleasure in decoding scripts and handwritten notes, your abilities will be crucial for accurately transcribing and interpreting documents.
Specially Curated Topics from the National Archives
In addition to the general topics, there are specially curated topics from the National Archives that delve into significant historical events and phenomena:
1. JFK Assassination Records
Explore the extensive documentation surrounding the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, including government investigations and eyewitness accounts.
2. Revolutionary War Records
Engage with primary sources from the Revolutionary War, including letters, military records, and official documents that highlight the struggle for independence.
3. Unidentified Aerial Phenomena Records
Dive into the records related to unidentified aerial phenomena, exploring government investigations and reports on sightings and encounters.
4. More Topics
Additional specially curated topics may encompass a range of historical events, cultural milestones, and significant governmental records that have influenced the development of our nation. You will likely encounter Military Records, Civil Rights History, Immigration and Naturalization, Local Historical Events, as well as Family History and Genealogy.
Participation Requirements
Age: 16+ (under 16 with parental consent)
Agreement: Accept National Archives’ terms on confidentiality and ethics.
Training: Optional online modules cover style guides, transcription standards, and metadata best practices.
Diversity & Respect: Commit to fair, unbiased handling of all materials.
Joining the Citizen Archivist program at the National Archives is not merely a volunteer role; it is an opportunity to engage with history, contribute to cultural preservation, and connect with a vibrant community. Your work can create a lasting impact, ensuring that the stories of our past remain accessible to future generations.
Whether you choose to focus on military records, civil rights history, or family genealogy, your contributions as a Citizen Archivist will connect generations. Become part of a mission to preserve our national heritage, ensuring that our shared history is celebrated and remembered.
Engage today, and let your passion for history shine as a Citizen Archivist at the National Archives!
Quick-Start: Your First Contribution in 3 Steps
Sign Up
Visit archives.gov/citizen-archivist and create your free account.
Pick a Mission
Browse Featured Missions like JFK Assassination or Revolutionary War records.
Submit Your First Task
Transcribe, tag, or review a historical document. Celebrate!
** The information contained in this post about the National Archives program for Citizen Archivist was written with information publicly available on their website. Any misinterpretation is a result of our own misunderstanding. If you are interested, please visit archives.gov/citizen-archivist to check our the requirements and responsibilities for yourself!
And a pen joke, just for fun:
Why did Shakespeare write with ink? ...................................................... ........................................ Because he couldn't' decide which pencil to use: 2B or not 2B!
Happy Independence Day!
It was great to see so many of you at the St. Louis Pen Show last week!
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