Phebe Jacobsen (1922-2000)
Historian and Archivist
MSA SC 3520-2942

Phebe R. Jacobsen as an archivist at the Maryland State Archives endeared herself to innumerable colleagues and researchers with her abiding interest in the
preservation and use of records. After obtaining a degree in history and English and teaching at the high school level, she began her archival career at the state
archives in Pennsylvania. Phebe and her family returned to her native state of Maryland when her husband Bryce obtained a teaching position at St. John's College.
Through work as a researcher for Historic Annapolis she became acquainted with the resources of the State Archives, then called the Hall of Records, and acquired
a position there in January 1960. Retirement came 30 years later on July 1, 1990.

During her archival career Phebe became an expert on many types of records. Over time Phebe's favorite areas of expertise included military, church, African
American, and Native American records. For her it was important to share information, promote the use of records, and continue the learning process.

In her role as reference archivist, Phebe is best known for assisting Alex Haley in his search for ancestor Kinta Kunte. Haley described Phebe in a 1978 letter,
"Anyone with half an eye and ear could tell how you find research not something dull..., but vibrant and alive." Haley took time out of his hectic schedule to attend
her 1990 retirement ceremony. He was one of many researchers grateful to Phebe for her in-depth guidance and the two remained close friends for years
afterwards.

Archival colleagues remember Phebe as a mentor, always available for instruction and guidance regarding records, reference, or even personal conduct. Any
remarks, no matter how frank, were conveyed with warmth and friendliness. She was a founding member of the Mid-Atlantic Regional Archives Conference in
1972, established as a organization for the teaching and exchanging of archival principles and ideas. From 1977 to 1988, she served on the Maryland Commission
on Afro-American history and Culture. After her retirement, Phebe continued her involvement with the Archives by pursuing an extensive study of Indian records and
serving on the Maryland Commission of Indian Affairs.

In addition to her legion of personal friends and history disciples, Phebe  leaves a legacy of one son, Eric Jacobsen, and one daughter, Kristin J. Onyeme; five
grandchildren: Eric, Jr., Geoff, Kelly, Amy, Owen; three great-granddaughters: Erica, Emma, Sarah, and a great-grandson due this fall. Happily, the former Phebe
Robinson now joins her husband, Bryce Duval Jacobsen, who passed away in the spring of 1998.