The lack of science archives in Puerto Rico*
Archives are the lifeblood of historians. Although not the only source, they provide the principal fodder for future articles and books. It is hence sad to note the scarcity of science-related or technology-related archives in Puerto Rico. As the latest postings on ictal.org demonstrate, the most prominent science archive is that of Dr. Bailey K. Ashford, a stateside physician who introduced modern medicine and thereby helped spur modern science in the island. While the archive is a valuable resource, we may point out its limitations, such that it does not extend to the entire medical-research community of the island. The problem is compounded when one compares this growing scientific community visa-vie the number of existing structures specifically oriented to house their personal and public records. When we consider that the largest archive of the island, the Archivo General de Puerto Rico in Old San Juan, houses materials primarily of the Spanish Colonial Period prior to the 20th century, there is even greater cause for concern. Will the memory of an entire generation of contemporary scientists be forgotten by what might be termed our 'narrow-minded presentism'?