Reference Collection: Vertical Files, 1895+ | Northern Illinois University

Scope and Contents: Because many researchers who visit the Regional History Center/ UniversityArchives want short, quick answers to specific questions concerning the history of the school, the archives staff has created “Quick Reference” vertical files to accommodate these needs.  Within this collection are over 200 file folders, each addressing a subject which has proved to be of recurrent and enduring interest over the years.  Included here are campus buildings and landmarks; brief histories of NIU, as well as department and college histories; major campus events, student activities, and traditions; as well as information relating to the history of DeKalb, and the invention of barbed wire.  In addition to this index, each folder is also listed in the University Archives Guide.