During a visit to a local library archives, many old photographs were discovered which turned out to be useful teaching tools for an English class. Copies of a few of them were brought to class where students were asked to choose one and write about it. The responses were exceptional. Students were writing about their town; some of them were writing about their ancestors. Digging around for useful archives became a hobby. Students were brought along on these archival searches which included viewing old newspapers preserved on microfilm. A variety of activities were developed from the news stories and pictures that were found. Students began to discover themselves, their town, and the past. The variety of things available in city, university, or state archives is phenomenal. Although the news stories and pictures were used on an occasional basis, they could have been grouped together into a unit. Archival materials can be a positive and enjoyable alternative to published textbooks. (DC)