Photographs in the Winston-Salem State University Archives
The American poet Oliver Wendell Holmes, also an avid amateur photographer, referred to photography as "the mirror with memory." Although photographs may only capture a small segment of life, pictures empower human beings to see the world as it really is as, opposed to just casually observing it. Some writers have said that the aim of photography-and subsequently the photographic record-is not to depict an objective reality, but to portray a subjective human experience consisting of expressed human emotions, the arts and architecture, interactions with nature and people, and human involvement in activities and events.
Historical photographs are an excellent way to provide general researchers, educators, students and scholars with primary source documentation. The Winston-Salem State University Archives has a vast and diverse collection of photographic images for researchers that document the social, cultural and historical legacy of Winston-Salem State University. Specifically the numerous photographic prints and negatives in the holdings depict administrators, faculty, students, alumni, and noteworthy visitors; campus facilities, buildings, and views; events, activities, organizations, students, and campus life in general.
Some of the images in the collection were taken by professional photographers contracted by the University, and amateur and student photographers associated with various divisions and departments at the University.
Because of the great demand by patrons from both the public and private sectors, to see and use photographs in the collection, a selected number of images will be available online. In the very near future, many of the photographs from our holdings will be prepared for digitization and greater patron access.
Images in the Archives
The photographs and the Archives holdings document the University faculty, administrators, faculty, students, alumni, and noteworthy visitors; campus facilities, buildings, and views; events, activities, organizations, students, and campus life in general. For a non-searchable index to these materials please see WSSU Photograph Index.
Photograph Duplication
Copying of photographs is allowed, but due to copyright considerations restrictions may apply. For more information see Photograph Copyright & Use Restrictions or contact the Archives.
