Utilizing Oral Histories in Research

Oct 7, 2024

Using Oral Histories in Research

Introduction

  • Purpose: Discuss how to utilize oral histories for research goals.
  • Background: Oral histories are personal accounts of events from the perspective of those who experienced them.

Understanding Oral Histories

  • Definition: Oral retelling of events by someone with direct experience.
  • Importance: Provides personal stories in unique voices.
  • Interview Process:
    • Many oral histories are recorded via interviews.
    • Questions are aimed to highlight specific personal histories.
    • Some oral histories may be unstructured.

Value of Oral Histories

  • Depth and Dimension: When combined with other materials, they enrich the understanding of events.
  • Example: Neil Atherton's oral history provides insight into gay life in a small town community.

Accessing Oral Histories

  • Methods:
    1. Full-length audio recordings available in archives.
    2. Transcripts of interviews.
  • Recommendations:
    • Consider listening to audio for tone and style not captured in transcripts.
    • Identify interesting transcript sections and listen to those audio parts.

Analytical Approach

  • Key Questions:
    • Why was the oral history created?
    • What topics does it cover?
    • What insights does the individual’s story offer?
    • Assess personal relevance vs historical/social significance.
  • Interviewer-Interviewee Interaction: May reveal additional information.

Case Study: Neil Atherton

  • Background: Moved to Saugatuck-Douglas in the 1980s, operated "Hoopty Scooty."
  • Topics Covered:
    • Business challenges.
    • Creative advertising.
    • Experiences as a gay man in the area.
  • Key Observations:
    • Generally felt accepted and part of the community.
    • Experiences with microaggressions from some locals.
    • Highlights the mixed reception of LGBTQ individuals in the area.

Constructing Arguments with Oral Histories

  • Analysis: Use observations to argue about the life of gay residents in Saugatuck-Douglas.
  • Supporting Evidence: Confirm insights with other collection materials like tickets and playbills.

Further Exploration

  • Resource: Explore more videos in the Stories of Summer Collection for additional context.