Bridwell Library archival holdings document the history of the United Methodist Church and its predecessor bodies, Perkins School of Theology, and Bridwell Library. The Archives staff collect, preserve, arrange, and describe relevant materials; assist researchers; curate physical and digital exhibitions of items from the collections; and make public presentations to university classes and community groups.
The Methodist Studies Archive
The primary focus is on the history of North American Methodism and its world outreach and includes the papers of bishops, ministers, missionaries, educators, and musicians; the records of church-related institutions, organizations, and events; and materials documenting other facets of church life.
The Perkins School of Theology Archive
This archival collection comprises historical and administrative records, the professional papers of deans and faculty members, institutional and student publications, and records of student organizations. (Note: The administrative records of Perkins School of Theology are restricted from public access for a period of fifty years.)
The Bridwell Library Archive
The Bridwell Library Archive includes the professional papers of former directors and staff members, library publications, archival collections associated with the library’s rare books and manuscripts, and other historical and administrative records.
External Archives
Bridwell Library houses the independently managed archives of several other organizations. Please contact them directly with inquiries.
Texas United Methodist Historical Society
This organization promotes the study of the history of United Methodism in Texas. TUMHS holds an annual meeting, produces a newsletter and Heritage Journal, and sponsors two annual writing competitions:
- The Kate Warnick Awards for published local church histories: Entry guidelines | Past winners
- The Walter N. Vernon Texas United Methodist Historical Society Student Essay Awards: Entry guidelines
Contact archivist Lillie Jenkins Walker at walker@ntcumc.org.
Approximately 190 linear feet of materials documenting the history and ongoing work of the North Texas Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church (and predecessor bodies).
Contact archivist Lillie Jenkins Walker.
94 boxes (89 cubic feet) of materials documenting the history of the Rio Grande Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church (1948-2014) and predecessor bodies. These items are managed by the Rio Texas Annual Conference Commission on Archives and History.
Contact archivist Bonnie Saenz at bsaenz@riotexas.org or 210-408-4500 Ext. 539.
South Central Jurisdiction of the United Methodist Church
107 boxes (107 linear feet) of materials documenting the history and ongoing work of the South Central Jurisdiction of the United Methodist Church (and predecessor bodies).
Contact archivist Frances Long.