Lake Forest Academy’s rich history, which stretches back to 1857, is preserved through its archives, offering a unique window into the lives, events, and traditions that have shaped the school over the years. Rita MacAyeal, LFA’s dedicated archivist, who oversees the meticulous preservation of the school’s records. MacAyeal explained that the archives encompass a wide range of materials, including “school newspapers, yearbooks, correspondence from the board of trustees, headmaster records, photographs, videos, clothing, film reels, and scrapbooks.” Each item represents a crucial piece of a larger puzzle, helping to illustrate LFA’s multifaceted history.
Many of these documents and artifacts trace back to the school’s early years, and preserving them demands careful attention and specialized techniques. “With newspapers, we keep them in special archival boxes, designed with chemicals that slow down the natural deterioration process. For textiles, we wrap them in archival tissue paper, and for photographs, we use specific photographic sleeves to preserve their colors and prevent the images from disintegrating,” MacAyeal shared. This painstaking process ensures that each piece remains intact for future generations to explore.
One particularly interesting element of the archives is the collection of student-created scrapbooks, which provide an intimate glimpse into the daily lives of LFA’s former students. “Especially in the 19th century, it was common for students to make scrapbooks, including things like dance cards, programs from shows, and other personal mementos. These scrapbooks, often donated by the families of alumni, give current students a personal connection to their school’s history,” MacAyeal said. The individuality of these items creates a direct link between past and present, offering an up-close view of life at LFA through the eyes of those who lived it.
The significance of LFA’s archival records also extends beyond the school, contributing to broader historical and genealogical research. “Researchers often discover connections to Lake Forest Academy or Ferry Hall during their work, whether for genealogy or family history,” MacAyeal explained. “For example, someone may contact me after finding out their ancestor attended LFA or Ferry Hall, asking if we have any records about their great-grandmother.” These personal inquiries highlight the far-reaching impact of LFA’s archives, as they offer crucial information for individuals delving into their family histories.
LFA’s archives are not only important for historical preservation but are also easily accessible to the public. The digital archives can be accessed through the LFA website by navigating to the academic section, selecting the library and archives, and clicking on the digital archives link. This directs users to the Illinois Digital Archives, which houses records from schools, libraries, and museums across the state. Additionally, the Lake Forest Academy and Ferry Hall Archives Facebook account offers a platform where alumni frequently engage with posts, often commenting on photographs where they or their classmates are featured.
For students working on projects about LFA’s history, the archives provide invaluable resources. For example, the images and information displayed during Ferry Hall Day presentations come directly from the archives. Furthermore, students with a passion for historical preservation can participate in the LFA Archives Club, which is dedicated to safeguarding the school’s history for future generations.
