Highlighting the Women-Led Team at Columbia MD Archives
In honor of Women’s History Month, we are incredibly proud to highlight the all-women team here at Columbia MD Archives! In fact, since its very origin, CMA has a long history of being led by remarkable women.
Shout-out to CMA’s woman founder
In 1982, longtime Columbia resident Rebecca Orlinsky organized a display of clippings and other ephemera — and enthusiasm for the exhibit led to a petition to form an archive to chronicle the history of the then 15-year-old community.
A year later, the Museum and Archives of the History of Columbia, MD (aka Columbia Archives) was incorporated, and Orlinsky and Ruth McCullough began working as volunteers on a monthly basis. Passionate women volunteers like Florence Bain, Priscilla Hart, May Ruth, Helen Ruther and so many more were instrumental to the collection’s growth.
Erin Berry, Archivist & Manager
What do you love most about your role on the CMA team?
I love that I am able to “wear many hats.” Every day is vastly different and can include a multitude of tasks, from working with researchers, cataloging and processing collections, or curating an exhibit. All of this work all contributes to the same mission of providing access to the story of the community of Columbia and I am so thankful I can do it.
What does Women’s History Month mean to you?
Women’s History Month is a time to intentionally remember, recognize and learn from the many women (and women representing) that have made their mark in their lifetime. Having this intention is important in America where there have been, and still are, barriers for women in our society.
Who is a woman from history that inspires you?
There are so many women and women-led organizations that come to mind, especially in Columbia. Since I can’t pick just one person, I would like to highlight the Women’s Center of Howard County. We have a collection of their records at CMA, which is the first collection I cataloged here! This organization was founded in 1970 by Louise Eberhardt, who was working for the Columbia Cooperative Ministry. She saw a need for a group for women to have an outlet to discuss specific topics and issues unique for women, but also provide educational discussions to promote a holistic voice for women in Columbia. This group grew and so did their programs and services. Many women ran and participated in the center until it closed in 1981. This organization stands out in my mind because it is an amazing example of women recognizing a need that is lacking and working together in order to provide it for themselves and their community.
Why is having a dedicated month to recognize women’s history so important?
Having this month to purposefully recognize women (and women representing) is important because it gives life to their memories so we can continue to learn and grow from what they can teach us. This is the purpose of having institutions like archives and is an aspect of my position as an Archivist that I take very seriously.
Aimee Kirby, Archives Assistant
What do you love most about your role on the CMA team?
I joined the CMA team in January 2022 as the Archives Assistant, and I love being able to contribute to the preservation and accessibility of the archives collection! Whether I’m processing donations, cataloging materials, or assisting with exhibits, I greatly enjoy working with archival materials and helping to facilitate community engagement.
What does Women’s History Month mean to you?
Women’s History Month is meaningful to me since it’s a time to honor the past accomplishments of women throughout history and to cultivate respect for women as leaders for change.
Who is a woman from history that inspires you?
A woman from history that I find most inspiring is Vivian “Millie” Bailey (1918-2022), who we recently spotlighted in our exhibition “Life of Service: Journey Through the Legacy of Vivian ‘Millie’ Bailey.” From serving in the military during WWII to volunteering in the Columbia and Howard County communities, Mrs. Bailey was an inspirational leader in the community who advocated for philanthropic service and helping others in need. She led by example and her impact is still felt very strongly today!
Why is having a dedicated month to recognize women’s history so important?
It’s important because it inspires future generations and instills a sense of pride in women for forging ahead despite existing barriers. Women’s History Month is a dedicated time to recognize and acknowledge the women in history who were impactful and advocated for change.
Got a question about the Columbia MD Archives? Reach out anytime at columbia.archives@columbiaassociation.org or 410-715-3103. You can learn more about the CMA here.
