Archives Collections

New England Conference (UMC) - Commission on Archives and History
(incorporating the New England United Methodist Historical Society)

Mission
In addition to collecting books and journals for current research, the School of Theology Library collects and preserves important materials relative to the history of the school, the faculty, and local organizations with some relationship to the school. We also preserve, store and service collections belonging to the Commission on Archives and History of the New England Conference (Conference journals, records of Conference organizations and local churches, manuscript histories, letters and books by or about New England Methodism.)

Using the Collections
These collections are for library use only, and are available only when appropriate staff are here to assist, normally Monday through Friday from 8am to 4pm. Materials may be used in the Research Collection Reading Room. Notes may be taken in pencil or on computer only--no pens allowed. Photocopying is severely restricted due to the delicate condition of many items and will be done only by the staff at their discretion. Charges are $.25 per page ($5 minimum), plus $5 for postage (or actual cost if over.)

Further information on access or appointments, email us at sthrsrch@bu.edu or call (617) 358-0698.

Morgan Memorial-Goodwill Industries
This important service organization was founded by Rev. Edgar J. Helms (School of Theology 1895) and has grown to become an international model for social agencies. Annual reports, board minutes, and news clippings from its 100-year history report its activities during the years. Files are arranged chronologically, with a general inventory.

New England Conference Commission on Archives and History
The Commission collection focuses on the history of the United Methodist Church in New England, with Conference Journals, church records, and archived records of conference boards and agencies, along with Methodist-related social and service organization records. Commission materials, especially journals and church records, are listed online. The listing in these pages is complete except for information notes on parish history.

New England United Methodist Historical Society
All materials dealing with the Methodist church in New England, including conference journals and records, church records, records of organizations and social groups, books and papers, were tranferred to the New England Conference Commission on Archives and History.  Included are manuscript letters and memoirs collected by the Historical Society and books by or about New England Methodism.  General histories of the Methodist Episcopal Church recording the evangelization of New England, and national-level publications, such as General Conference materials, the Book of Discipline, and the General Minutes were also transferred to the Commission.   All other published materials dealing with Methodism or other topics were transferred to Boston University School of Theology Library, including the Society's collection of 18th and 19th century publications by or about John and Charles Wesley.