The Art of Archival Recovery

This chapter explores the critical role of the National Archives in preserving federal records, emphasizing the efforts of a historian-turned-archival bounty hunter in recovering stolen items. Through engaging discussions, it highlights the motivations behind theft, the complexities of reclaiming artifacts, and intriguing stories of recovered items, including a notable case linked to a Civil War reenactor. The chapter also sheds light on the methods employed by thieves and the impact of popular culture on perceptions of archival security.