West Texas Collection closes long-running exhibit

On March 7, the West Texas Collection “Messages from the Archive” exhibit officially closed, marking the end of its journey through the depths of history. 

The exhibit, which delved into the personal narratives of the Tweedy family, the relentless pursuit of equality of the Perez family and the intense war experiences of Robert Janek, left a profound impact on its visitors. With its closure, it left behind a trail of emotion and a deep yearning for understanding, showcasing the powerful role of written historical narratives in connecting us to our collective past.

Eva Waring Horton, a descendant of Joseph Tweedy, touched hearts with her recollection, “We were practically raised reading letters, learning our family's history.” Her cousin, Drew Sykes, provided a counterpoint, reflecting on Joseph's penchant for living in the moment. These personal insights invite us to ponder the enduring bonds of family and the legacy we inherit through written words.

The Perez Family collection included letters vividly illustrating the pursuit of educational equality. Estela Perez Santos' poignant statement, “We went into a rundown wooden building with one water fountain; we wanted to go to the nice brick building with the good teachers,” encapsulates a struggle many continue to face today.

Dr. Manuel Piña provided a forward-thinking perspective, advocating for dynamic engagement with our past. “If you want change to happen, you can't sit around and complain — you have to do it yourself,” he asserted, a mantra for progress that echoes beyond the exhibit's walls.

Lastly, the candid correspondence of Robert Janek offers a soldier's perspective, his words a stark reminder of the human cost of war. His fear that history might be forgotten, expressed in the belief that “many people don't care about history, and that scares me... it's something that needs to be preserved,” challenges us to keep the past alive.

As visitors absorbed the gravity of the panel's messages, a consensus emerged: history is a treasure to be protected, but it must also catalyze change. The exhibit has not only been a showcase of artifacts but a dialogue with time and a reminder that our history is the foundation upon which we will build our future. This parting sentiment, laden with emotion and resolve, underscores the importance of remembering while relentlessly marching forward.