‘Perfect Union’ Historical Documents Exhibit at TAMIU

History enthusiasts won’t want to miss a rare opportunity to view original documents written by some of America’s greatest historical figures.

“To Form a More Perfect Union,” a historical documents exhibit, will be on display from Jan. 28 to Feb. 7 from 12 - 5 p.m., Monday-Friday in Texas A&M International University’s Center for the Fine and Performing Arts (CFPA) Gallery. Thereafter, it will be displayed in the Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library Archives and Special Collections, room 204, Monday - Friday from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Admission is free of charge and open to the public.

The exhibit is made possible by Toni L. Ruiz, with the assistance of TAMIU’s Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library Special Collections and Archives and the American Historical Theatre. It features original letters and notes by King George III, George Washington, Ben Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, Robert E. Lee and Ulysses S. Grant.

An opening reception is scheduled Tuesday, Feb. 5 at 6:30 p.m. in the TAMIU CFPA Gallery, by invitation only.  It will feature a live performance by Philadelphia-based actor Robert Gleason of the American Historical Theatre.

The documents featured in the “To Form a More Perfect Union” exhibit are part of Ruiz’s personal collection and are on loan to TAMIU. Ruiz and her husband, Dr. Vito H. Ruiz, are both avid history buffs. While her husband collects guns and swords from the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, she prefers to gain personal insight into the lives of historical figures through their personal writings.

“I always enjoyed reading the biographies of great leaders as a student. I can’t help but be inspired by the fact that, through a combination of fate and personal drive, ordinary people can accomplish extraordinary things and literally change the course of history,” Ruiz explained.

With personal heroes such as Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson and Ben Franklin among her collection, Ruiz said she hopes to highlight the invaluable accomplishments of these historical figures for her home community.

“I hope that this will become an annual event to help bring history to life for Laredo’s school children. Ideally, I would like to locate like-minded partners who will join me in bringing an American Historical Theatre actor here for performances during the Washington’s Birthday Celebration on an annual basis,” she said.

Schools are encouraged to make an appointment to view the Collection that includes an informative audio tour. School tours can be coordinated with the University’s Office of Recruitment and School Relations at 956.326.2206 or through an online tour request form available at tamiu.edu/enroll

Other interested groups can contact Jeanette M. Hatcher, Reference and Special Collections librarian, at 326.2404 or by e-mail jhatcher@tamiu.edu

For additional information, contact the TAMIU Office of Public Relations, Marketing and Information Services at 956.326.2180, visit offices in the Killam Library, room 268, e-mail prmis@tamiu.edu or click on tamiu.edu.

University office hours are from Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.  

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Relations, Marketing and Information Services at prmis@tamiu.edu