Take a close look at the collection of images above (.pdf). What common theme can you identify? Note similarities and differences between the images.Now take a look at the bibliographic records of each image by clicking the links below. What is the function of the main object in each image? Choose one of these and investigate how the object was used in the past and if it is still used today.Image 1 Image 2 Image 3 Image 4What types of tasks can you envision the main … [Read more...]
Primary Source Spotlight: Architecture
June 2, 2016 by Leave a Comment
Architecture primary source setLibrary architecture collectionsAmerican Treasures of the Library of Congress: Architecture & Design Architecture, Design, and Engineering Drawings collection Brumfield Collection images of the architecture of the Russian North, including Siberia Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South collection Gottscho-Schleisner Collection U.S. architectural styles and trends Historic American Buildings Survey/Historic American Engineering … [Read more...]
NHD 2015: CMHEC Topic Ideas – Economics, Science, and Art, Architecture & Design
October 7, 2014 by Leave a Comment
Below you will find Library of Congress resources curated by TPS-Barat that relate to National History Day 2015 topic ideas from the Chicago Metro History Education Center. This set specifically focuses on the economy, scientific innovation, art, architecture, and design but all topic ideas are related to the 2015 NHD theme: Leadership & Legacy in History. Links to more NHD and CMHEC content follow this resource list.NOTE: historical newspaper coverage is from 1836-1922EconomyThe … [Read more...]
Featured Source: Cornell-Liberty Safety Car
July 14, 2014 by Leave a Comment
Using a magnifying glass, can you decipher any of the notes? What safety features are recommended?Compare and contrast this illustration with the studies for the 1961 Avanti. What similarities do you notice? What differences do you see?Describe and explain safety features that you would recommend for a car today.What other observations, reflections or questions does this source inspire? Let us know! … [Read more...]
Learning from the Source: The Star Spangled Banner K-2
September 28, 2012 by Leave a Comment
Overview The flag is one of the United States’ most important symbols and the central character of the country’s national anthem. This project introduces students to the key historical events that led to the creation of this patriotic song, helping them to learn the lyrics to The Star Spangled Banner and expand their overall understanding of U.S. history and their personal connections to this country.To complete this project, students will . . .learn about key historical events that … [Read more...]
Learning from the Source: The Star Spangled Banner 3-5
September 13, 2012 by Leave a Comment
Overview The flag is one of the United States’ most important symbols and the central character of the country’s national anthem. This project introduces students to key historical events that led to the creation of this patriotic song, helping them to learn the lyrics to The Star Spangled Banner, and expands their overall understanding of U.S. history and their personal connections to this country.To complete this project, students will . . .learn about key historical events that led … [Read more...]
Featured Source: Steam engine, cam ring & hammer shaft
May 1, 2012 by Leave a Comment
Use a magnifying glass to study the details of this design drawing? What did you learn?What types of skills do you need to have to be an industrial designer? What similar types of skills do you have?Imagine a new industrial product and sketch the design. How will this product advance industry?What other observations, reflections or questions does this source inspire? Let us know! … [Read more...]
Today in History: Benjamin Henry Latrobe
May 1, 2012 by Leave a Comment
Today in History–May 1–the Library of Congress features Benjamin Henry Latrobe, born on this day in 1764. Find out more about early American engineer and architect who helped plan the U.S. Capitol and the White House and many more influential buildings by visiting the Today in History section, then follow the links below to access primary sources about Latrobe and architecture.Benjamin Henry Latrobe drawings & plansBenjamin Henry Latrobe correspondenceBenjamin Henry Latrobe … [Read more...]
Today in History: Raymond Loewy
March 22, 2012 by 3 Comments
Today in History–March 22–the Library of Congress features industrial designer Raymond Loewy, who presented his designs for a sleek roadster he called the Avanti to the Studebaker Corporation on this day in 1961. Loewy designed cars for other companies too as well as locomotives and a wide assortment of both industrial and consumer products. Learn more about "father of industrial design" by visiting the Today in History section, then take a look at this Exxon company logo and the sources … [Read more...]
Congress abolished the slave trade in Washington D.C., as part of the Compromise of 1850. Check out our 
Elisah Graves Otis sold his first elevator. Check out our 
