The Ben Houser Collection project involves the preservation of a private scrapbook collection that contains photographs, newspaper clippings, cartoons, and articles about Benjamin Houser, famous first basemen, philanthropist, and sports coach. Houser lived from November 1883 - January 1952. He was a skilled baseball player and a beloved social figure, known for his smile and friendly nature. The scrapbook was completed in the 1950's by Ben Houser's niece, and has been passed to his great-niece. The objective of this project is to preserve the materials in the scrapbook and the history of Ben Houser's life through digitization, preservation of the physical materials, and by conducting an oral history with his great-niece. Stay tuned for updates and photographs of the final product!
The scrapbooks contains a variety of photographs and newspaper clippings that are deteriorating and in danger of further degradation and loss. By digitizing this collection the family and future researchers will be able to view the materials without risking further damage to the collection.
Archival quality materials are being used to protect and preserve the physical scrapbook and its contents.
An oral history with Benjamin Houser's great-niece is being conducted about his life and her memories of him. The oral history is being recorded and transcribed.