Highlights of American Archives Month Staff Profiles

Highlights of American Archives Month Staff Profiles - Corbin Apkin Celebration

In the heart of Boston, the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library boasts a stunning building with an awe-inspiring view of the ocean. Within its halls, archivist Corbin Apkin has made a name for himself, meticulously preserving and showcasing the history of one of America's most iconic Presidents.

Apkin's journey to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library began with a deep-rooted interest in history. This fascination led him to pursue a career as an archivist, a field that allows him to delve into the past and ensure that valuable historical documents are preserved for future generations.

One of Apkin's favourite aspects of his role is gaining experience with various aspects of archival work. From answering emails and helping researchers to updating audiovisual holdings descriptions, no day is the same. But it's not just the work that he enjoys; it's the stories that the documents tell.

One such story involves a telegram that Apkin discovered during his internship at the Library in 2014. The telegram was sent by his own uncle to President Kennedy. Moments like these, Apkin says, are what make his job so rewarding.

Before joining the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library, Apkin honed his skills at the National Archives. This experience provided him with a solid foundation, preparing him for the challenges and rewards that awaited him at his current post.

Apkin's passion for President Kennedy's life and presidency is evident. He believes that Matt Damon could effectively portray Kennedy in a movie, and he suggests the tagline for such a film as "An Idea Lives On." One of his favourite facts about Kennedy is his connection to the Omni Parker House hotel in Boston, a city that Apkin would choose for a hypothetical dinner with a President from his library.

The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library offers a wealth of materials that tell the whole story of the Kennedy Presidency and his life. These resources are invaluable for researchers and history enthusiasts alike, thanks in no small part to Apkin's dedication and expertise.

For those interested in following in Apkin's footsteps, he advises doing archival internships early for a head start in the field. After all, gaining experience with various aspects of archival work is crucial for a successful career.

Reflecting on his career, Apkin cites seeing his name in the acknowledgments of a book about JFK as the best thing that has happened to him. It's a testament to his hard work and commitment to preserving history, and a reminder of the impact he's making.

In the end, Corbin Apkin's passion for history and his dedication to preserving it make him an invaluable asset to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum. His work ensures that the story of President Kennedy continues to be told, and that future generations can learn from and be inspired by it.