Our next speaker is Board of Trustees member Paul Weaver. His talk, “The St. Augustine Historical Society: the City’s Pioneer Preservation Organization and the Historical Conscience of the City” will take place on November 12, 2018 at 7:00 p.m. in the Flagler Room at Flagler College.
Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at Paul’s research process!
What drew you to this discipline?
I grew up with great grandparents who were born in the 1880s and entertained me as a child with stories about the pre-industrial age South. I had mentors such as my high school teacher, Louis Zelenka, and Dr. Samuel Proctor at the University of Florida who recognized and encouraged my passion for history.
What is your research process like?
I consider myself a history detective. While I enjoy writing, I find the research aspect of history the most fascinating. I also have a background as an archivist and worked at the Library of Florida History at the University of Florida. This has given me an understanding of governmental record keeping that has always facilitated my research. It is enjoyable to find a clue or inference which is the tip of the iceberg and leads to in-depth documentation about a research topic.
Why this topic?
I discussed this with Magen Wilson, Executive Director of the St. Augustine Historical Society, and we thought it was appropriate to make a presentation about the Society’s role in the preservation of St. Augustine on the 100th Anniversary of its acquisition by the St. Augustine Historical Society. The Society was the city’s pioneer preservation organization its conscience on maintaining the authentic history of St. Augustine.
What is the best part of your field?
I think no matter what profession or vocation you choose, you should always have a love and passion for it. I have a passion for what I do and hope that I have made a contribution to the preservation of Florida and St. Augustine’s historic resources during the course of my career.