Helen L. Chatfield (1893-1970) was the first archivist of American University (AU). In addition to being instrumental in solidifying archival practices at AU, she played an important role in the burgeoning archival field in the United States. Chatfield reflects not only a transformation in the archival profession but also an evolution in women’s roles in archives.

Despite being a cornerstone in mid-20th century archiving, Chatfield has been largely overlooked in histories of the university and American archival development. This exhibition strives to take Chatfield’s story out of AU’s archives where it has been confined and place it in the limelight.

The photograph on the left was taken during Chatfield’s time as Archivist of AU. As the university’s first archivist and a professor, Chatfield understood her duty to protect crucial documents and pass her knowledge on to future archivists.