This panel is designed to reflect on an activity that makes the vitality of our field possible: archival research. This session will examine and discuss archival research as it relates to the Western studies. Issues and questions include: special problems with regional archival research, research methods, archival versus virtual research, research in different institutional settings, research and publication, research and teaching, or archival “horror-stories.” In keeping with the conference theme of “Western Collaborations,” we encourage submissions which address particular challenges, and explore potential solutions.

Please submit a 250 word abstract by May 01, 2008 via email or regular mail to: Diana M. Vela, Ph. D., Director of Education, National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, 1720 Gendy, Fort Worth, Texas 76107, email: dvela@cowgirl.net