This exhibit covers the history of writing from ancient times to the present. There are many examples of writing and writing tools that were used. Many of the examples are from kings, presidents, and famous people. This is an exhibit that the Smithsonian would love to have but Mr. Henry donated it to Peteetneet.

Austin Henry was raised in Pennsylvania but moved to Arizona in 1952 to escape the cold weather. His interest in writing developed as a young boy when he was watching his father acting as a scribe for many immigrants from Europe who lived near them. These newcomers were unable to to read or write in English. These people arrived after World War I to work in the coal mines. His father spoke six foreign languages fluently and had his hand writing perfected. Mr. Austin learned to appreciate the art but was never able to accomplish it himself. He did develop a curiosity of the origin of writing and one day was presented with a cuneiform tablet from Asia. This gift got him started on a life-long hobby of collecting anything pertaining to writing.

Mr. Henry also had an extensive collection of items of communication for very early to modern ones. This is a must see part of our permanent exhibits.



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