Oregon State Archives News

Reference Archivist Honored for 25 Years of Service

Reference Archivist Tim Backer shakes hands with Secretary of State Bill Bradbury during a celebration to honor Tim's 25 years of service for the Secretary of State's Office.

Reference Archivist Tim Backer was honored for 25 years of service to the Secretary of State's Office on December 11, 2002. Most of his service has been with the Oregon State Archives.

A charicature of Tim drawn by Loren Wuest of the State Archives staff.

Oregon Secretary of State Bill Bradbury attended the celebration at the Archives Building along with Deputy Secretary of State Jen Stineff, State Archivist Roy Turnbaugh, current and former State Archives staff and volunteers, and Tim's wife and daughter, Ruth and Courtney.

Staff of the State Archives presented Tim with an engraved crystal clock, a neck tie featuring two historic Oregon trademark labels, a charicature of Tim, two humorous certifications of appreciation, and a gift certificate. Food, refreshments, and a cake topped off the event.

The event catches Tim by surprise.

In the course of helping thousands of researchers find what they need in the 28,000 cubic feet of State Archives holdings, Tim has seen many changes in how the work is done in the reference room. Over the years his tools have evolved from Selectric typewriters and carbon paper to sophisticated photo and html editing software for Web-based services. Tim also has displayed his artistic skills in several exhibits mounted in the lobby of the State Archives building.

His artistry extends to his life outside of work. At home Tim grows exceptionally beautiful roses and at his church he is a gifted pianist. He is a devoted husband and father of three children. Before joining the Secretary of State's Office, Tim grew up as a preacher's son in many communities in Washington and Oregon. He served with the Marines in Vietnam and continues his service in the Army Reserve.

Ruth Backer (in red), Tim, daughter Courtney, and Bill Bradbury share food and conversation.

Tim shows off a tie made by State Archives staff that features historic Oregon trademark labels from the Archives holdings. Archives Manager Layne Sawyer looks on.

Tim cuts a cake honoring his 25 years of service with the Secretary of State's Office.