User:Markivist

Ello,

I'm a local St. Louis historian that is oft contacted when someone needs a reference for some insanely vague detail in their research or public presentations. Primarily my sources are 1.) Newspapers 2.) Manuscript Collections 3.) Word of Mouth. I realize the third point probably won't work too well here on wikipedia--but local lore and street wisdom still interests me greatly because it often contradicts published accounts which can be influenced by city politics, ownership and editorial bias.

My historical interests primarily take me to the 20th century--urban history and the intersection of public policy and race. So I guess that means I'll most often be lurking around articles where civil rights, urban renewal and policing are frequently mentioned. At the same time I do relish the not so political call of railroads, architecture and education history.

I work with several institutions in St. Louis, notably the Griot Museum of Black History. I'm into digitization, podcasting and operate a few websites centered around St. Louis history place based and city planning oriented.