Updated 25 February 2025

This site primarily lists informational articles and publications about important permanently valuable federal records held and protected by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA).  This is a personal website and any opinions expressed are those of the author and do not reflect the opinions, if any, of any other person or organization.

Why name this site The Twelve Key? In the days of yore, each archivist at the National Archives was issued a metal key with the number 12 engraved upon it. This key provided access to all the unclassified stacks where records were held. This key has long since been replaced by other security devices. No, I have no idea for what keys 1 through 11 were for.

The articles on this site provide intellectual knowledge that enables the reader to access archival records. Thus it seemed fittingly symbolic to choose “12 key” for its name.

The green color is a few shades lighter than the olive drab green originally painted on archival stack doors, shelves, and so forth, that is still seen in many locations throughout the National Archives Building.

Outdated posts will be removed from this site when appropriate.

Revenue generated from advertising (if any) that appears on this website does NOT benefit me. I have no idea if people see advertising when they visit this website.