John Slate

John H. Slate is the City Archivist for the City of Dallas, a position he has held for over 15 years.13 As the City Archivist, Slate is responsible for preserving and protecting Dallas's historical records, as well as providing access to this information to the public.1

Professional Background

Slate's passion for history and historical materials began early in his life. After a summer job at the University of Texas at Austin's Eugene C. Barker Texas History Center following high school, he knew he wanted to pursue a career in archival work.1

Responsibilities

As City Archivist, Slate's duties include:

• Maintaining the Dallas Municipal Archives
• Answering reference questions via phone and email
• Supervising visiting researchers and archival volunteers
• Preparing collections for public use
• Handling City Staff requests1

The archives he oversees contain a vast collection of documents, including:

• City Council action files
• Original City ordinances and resolutions
• Meeting minutes and agenda documentation dating back to 1866
• The Dallas Police Department John F. Kennedy Assassination Records
• Police records related to Bonnie Parker, Clyde Barrow, and Raymond Hamilton
• Dallas City Council Minutes and Ordinances from 1868 onwards
• City Charters, City Code, Annual Reports, and Budgets12

Achievements and Recognition

John H. Slate has been recognized for his contributions to the field of archival science. He was inducted as a Fellow of the Society of American Archivists (SAA), one of the highest honors in the profession.45

Personal Interests

Outside of work, Slate is an active member of several professional organizations, including:

• Society of American Archivists
• Metroplex Archivists
• Society of Southwest Archivists
• Texas State Library and Archives Commission's Historical Records Advisory Board1

He is also an author, having published several books and articles in his field.1