Il Gazzettino - December 2009

The phrase, “truth is stranger than fiction” seems to be custom made for the tales that are methodically mined from the thousands of personal letters and documents in the Medici Granducal Archive. Often times, it is the truth that these ancient records are trying to conceal, as the interception of these correspondences could mean death or doom. Ron Howard would no doubt agree that any one of the brilliant Fellows at the Medici Archive Project in Florence could easily be cast as a scholarly detective in a mystery movie. Ancient pages filled with numbers and scribbles provide clues to unsolved mysteries that can redefine what we have considered “history” for centuries. Seemingly routine letters hold missing information about stories that have been left unfinished for ages. The scholarly resolve and dedication of our Fellows is inspirational to us all and their dedication to expanding our understanding of the past is commendable.

As you read further in this issue of Il Gazzettino you will learn about how the Medici Archive Project is thriving. There were many highlights from the past year, but top on the list was the global recognition for the exhibition “Galileo, the Medici and the Age of Astronomy” at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia from April 2 to September 7. Special respect and gratitude go to Dr. Paolo Galluzzi, Director of the Istituto e Museo di Storia della Scienza in Florence, for his advancement of the understanding Galileo Galilei and his Medici Patrons, and his colleague and curator, Dr. Giorgio Strano. The exhibition surpassed all attendance expectations. Articles about the success of this exhibition can be found at http://www.medici.org/press and include top reviews from writers at The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Smithsonian Magazine, American Heritage’s Invention and Technology Magazine and The Philadelphia Inquirer.

Many patrons have expressed interest in deepening their understanding of the work of the Medici Archive Project. We’ve created an opportunity for patrons to delve into the treasures of the Medici dynasty through joining the Medici Archive Society. This April, actress Sela Ward, Honorary International Chair of the Medici Archive Society, will be joining us as we welcome returning and new Society members. The Mysteries of Venice tour, April 6 - 12, 2010, will be sure to delight.

No organization can flourish without a talented and dedicated staff, and our Project is particularly fortunate to have a world class team. Research Director, Dr. Alessio Assonitis deserves an especially large dose of gratitude this year, as he has taken on responsibilities that have allowed us to achieve remarkable progress. He is an inspirational leader, intellectual mentor and a true ambassador for the organization. Rachel Harms, our Administrative Director, who has been with the Project for over 13 years is the “super-glue” that holds us all together. She continues to provide brilliant leadership, a high level of professionalism and commitment to the Project, and plays a critical role in our sustained growth. Technology Director, Lorenzo Allori, has made significant contributions to this essential aspect of our work as he rises to the high expectations of his important role. We are thrilled to have Dr. Sheila Barker serving in her new position as Educational Programming Director. In addition to leading the pilot online paleography course, she is plays an active role in the Medici Archive Society. She is also helping to develop exciting new initiatives which we look forward to sharing with you in the near future. Finally, Dr. Manfredi Piccolomini, President and Cultural Director, has made significant progress since joining us in February by securing grants from key foundations that support the humanities.

We would also like to extend our sincerest congratulations to Dottoressa Carla Zarrilli for her appointment as Director of the Archivio di Stato di Fireneze. We look forward to a long and fruitful collaboration. The continued success of the Medici Archive Project would also not be possible without strong leadership, and it is on that note that I would like to introduce our newest board members; Dr. Cristina Acidini, Dr. Bruce Cole, Ms. Joanna Milstein. Please see their impressive profiles in this issue to learn more about the high level of knowledge and experience that they bring to the Medici Archive Project. (link to Board member article) 

In closing, I would like to thank all of you for your valued support as we strive to reveal historical truths --silent for centuries-- that can be shared with the world. Perhaps the Medici legacy of patronage that celebrated the best of human potential will inspire you to connect to future generations through your continued support of our work.

With gratitude and joy, I wish you all a wonderful holiday season.

Martha McGeary Snider, Board Chair