American Historical Collection

The American Historical Collection, which was established in 1950, is consists of about 13,000 books, 18,000 photographs, and other materials related to the American experience in the Philippines and to the relationship of the two countries. With the possible exception of the holdings of the Library of Congress, it is the largest, most diverse and most complete in the world.

Ambassador Myron Cowen (1949-1951), who saw the devastation wrought by the war on many things including the memory of the times preceding it, encouraged the American community to donate books and other materials pertaining to the first half of the 20th century. His initiative was responsible for the early phase of the collection.

The collection was housed first at the U.S. Embassy, then at the Thomas Jefferson Center at Makati. It is now kept at the Rizal Library of the Ateneo de Manila University. The Rizal Library is committed to preserve the collection following the high standard it uses when conserving its own holdings. Furthermore, it is committed to facilitate the research of scholars.

The American Historical Collection Foundation, Inc. aids and supports the AHC. Ownership of the AHC is in trust with the American Association of the Philippines.

Filipinos and Americans are encouraged to donate appropriate books toward the development of this great collection.