My good friend Ed Bridges retired recently after serving with distinction as Director of the Alabama Department of Archives and History for 30 years. This Department is important for a number of reasons. It’s a remarkable institution and has worked for the preservation of historical events. Clearly the Department is a reservoir of historical events and happenings. Hundreds of thousands of folks have had a first-hand look at our state’s history from its very beginning.
It is Ed’s belief that in Alabama our people have “a stronger sense of history than in any other parts of the United States.” He told me that this is because “we not only feel the hand of history more heavily, but it’s also because we have a stronger sense of community and connection.” When I thought about what he was saying, I realized that Ed was absolutely correct. Anyone who hasn’t taken the time to visit the Department of Archives and History, and all of its divisions, has missed out on something truly wonderful and also educational. To say that all that is there to see is inspiring beyond description is an understatement. The Department of Archives and History has been in the capable hands of Ed Bridges and he has done an outstanding job in every respect. He will be sorely missed. But knowing Ed, he has left things in good hands.
