BETHLEHEM, Pa. – The Industrial Archives & Library (IAL) announced today that it has received a significant donation of archival and library materials from nationally recognized steel mill modeler, Mike Rabbitt, through the St. Alban’s Model Railroad Club of Newtown Square, Pa. (StARR) www.starr-mrc.org. Mr. Rabbitt’s collection is composed of books, periodicals, drawings, photographs and original documents relating to the American steel industry.
A renowned, longtime steel mill and railroad modeler, he acquired much of the material in the furtherance of those aims over the years. These materials have been added to the growing collection of this Bethlehem non-profit that specializes in the collection, preservation and storage of historic materials that chronicle America’s industrial history. “We are very excited to receive this collection,” said Nick Zmijewski, Archivist at IAL. “Mike Rabbitt is one of this country’s best-known steel mill modelers. The detail and quality of his craftsmanship is unmatched and made possible in large measure because of the extensive collection of reference materials he amassed over the years. It’s really a one-of-a-kind collection,” said Mr. Zmijewski. “We are proud to be chosen as the repository of this valuable collection.”
“Mike Rabbitt is one of this country’s best-known steel mill modelers. The detail and quality of his craftmanship is unmatched…It’s really a one-of-a-kind collection.”
Nick Zmijewski, Archivist
“We are very gratified that the St. Alban’s Model Railroad Club has entrusted us with Mr. Rabbitt’s unique collection,” said Stephen G. Donches, President of IAL. “This addition to our collection broadens our research capability not only for the very specialized needs of the modeling community, but also for the public at large,” Donches added. Current IAL plans are for the material in the collection to be made available for research as soon as processing is completed.
Archival and library materials housed at the Industrial Archives & Library can be searched on the organization’s website, www.industrialarchives.org. IAL is always open to new donations that fall within its mission. Anyone wishing to provide donations of archival materials or books may contact IAL at info@industrialarchives.org.
