Collection details
Our artifact collection includes three-dimensional objects that document an important aspect of the university's history, or the faculty, staff, or student experience, as well as those associated with our manuscript collections. As an archival repository, we do not prioritize collecting artifacts, but we do collect those that may have unique physical characteristics, hold high research value, or have the potential for use in exhibitions, outreach, or instruction. Currently, we have about 3,500 items in the artifact collection dating from 1849 to the present.
Collection highlights
- The death mask of Margaret Stanton, preceptress and wife of Edgar Stanton, class of 1872
- Letter sweaters
- Freshman beanies
- The National Medal of Technology, given to John Vincent Atanasoff
- Buttons, pins, and other ephemera from various campus organizations and events.
Access
Browse or search the current list of artifacts (PDF). Consider searches using keywords, collection names, or object ID numbers.
Due to a long-term project to rehouse all artifacts, any requests to view artifacts need to be submitted at least one working day in advance.