Abstract
The first issue of Western Pennsylvania History, published in 1918, began the tradition of listing recent artifact donations to the Historical Society. This initial list of "relics" and archives consisted primarily of military materials and items that documented early and important settlers in the region. Some of the donors have familiar names such as McKee, Lothrop, and Wilkins, all influential local families whose ancestors were involved in early industry and civic development. The listing both acknowledged donor's generosity and encouraged others to consider offering their treasured items to the collection.
Because of these lists, back issues of the magazine now provide curators, archivists, and registrars with a valuable research tool as we inventory and process our vast collection.