Oral history is a method of historical research combining history's oldest technique, the collection of eyewitness accounts with modern audio and videotape technology. By recording interviews with selected individuals, oral history serves to collect and preserve historical information while it is still available. This is especially important for preserving the otherwise perishable information that exists only in the memories of individuals. In order for such information to be useful to others, it first must be recorded, transcribed into printed form and made easily accessible.

The TCOM and UNTHSC Oral History collection was established in the Fall of 1980 as part of TCOM's 10th year anniversary celebration. The Oral History Collection is one of the Health Science Library's Special Collections

C. Ray Stokes, 1989