Create Princeton is working on an oral historical project to record the accounts of community members who were affected by the December 2021 tornado.
Nora Beck with Create Princeton explains that they developed the oral historical project in response to a recognized need and opportunity.
click to download audioThey are compiling this collection with the goal of talking to a minimum of 100 individuals.
click to download audioBeck added there are numerous stories related to the tornado that can be shared.
click to download audioBeck revealed that the interviewers at Create Princeton have undergone professional training by oral historians, equipping them with the necessary skills to ask the right questions that enable individuals to share their stories. Additionally, they have received training on how to use the recording equipment, which has been borrowed from the Kentucky Oral History Commission.
click to download audioBeck mentioned that the electronic recordings will be stored at the Western Kentucky University’s Folklife Archives. In addition, the local repository for the project will be the Glenn Martin Genealogy Research Center, located at the corner of Main and Harrison Streets in Princeton — eliminating the need for residents to travel to Bowling Green to access the stories.
Furthermore, Beck said the local Research Center has provided space for recording the stories, or the Create Princeton team is equipped and capable of coming to you if needed.
click to download audioShe emphasized that there is no cost associated to participate in this project and share one’s story. Beck stressed that the “clock is ticking” and they would like to hear from you before September 2024.
If you are interested in sharing your story, you can send an email to mytornadostory2021@gmail.com. This contact information can also be found on flyers available at the local Research Center.
