Framingham State University History Professor Dr. Joseph M. Adelman learned in November that he has been elected as a member of the exclusive American Antiquarian Society (AAS) in Worcester, MA. Founded in 1812 by printer and book publisher Isaiah Thomas, the AAS houses the largest and most accessible collection of books, pamphlets, broadsides, newspapers, periodicals, music, and graphic arts material dating back to the first European settlers to what is now the United States, through 1876.

There are currently about 1,000 living AAS members worldwide. Current and past members have included 14 U.S. presidents, more than 60 Pulitzer prize winners, and over 50 Bancroft prize winners.

Adelman has a long history with the organization, as its archives align with his research interests, which include Revolutionary War-era newspaper printing and the history of the U.S. Postal Service.

“It is one of the most important sites for my research,” says Adelman, who earlier this year published a book titled Revolutionary Networks: The Business and Politics of Printing the News, 1763-1789. “I spent over a year there through fellowships doing research for my book.”

In addition to doing research there, Adelman brings his students to the AAS archives to review historic materials, and help them generate ideas for research projects.

“I try to make sure my students get there, and that they are aware of the programs available, particularly if it aligns with what I am teaching,” he says.

Adelman has also worked with the organization on a variety of projects, including developing new online resources and digitizing their archives. As an elected member of the AAS, he will participate in the annual meeting, and continue to contribute to the Society’s activities and programs.

The founding of the AAS was part of an effort to create a national culture following the Revolutionary War, according to Adelman. In 2013, the organization was presented with the 2013 National Humanities Medal by President Barack Obama in a ceremony at the White House.

To learn more about the American Antiquarian Society, visit https://www.americanantiquarian.org/.