Joe Williams, left, interviews Mr. Al Downing as part of the history project.

Sometimes, when we think of the traditional forms history takes, it can seem stagnant -- something to be passed from one generation to the next -- usually through books. The spoken word is a vibrant and reliable tool for keeping history alive and is at the center of the Olive B. McLin Community History Project.

Here, sample the work of community historians and volunteers who are recording the stories of St. Petersburg's African Americans who have yet to make it into the history books. Learn how to create your own oral histories for enjoyment or contribution to the Oral History Archive. Don't let the memories slip away.

A GUIDE TO CREATING ORAL HISTORIES
This handbook, by Eric Chrisp and Jim Schnur, gives step-by-step instructions on choosing a subject, interviewing techniques and tips on securing credible information. This is great resource for the budding local historian or the more seasoned community archivist.

THE BUS TO DESTINY LISTENING STATION
Here, visitors can listen to the recorded voices of community members who talk about local African American History.