This is simply an original document, such as a manuscript, journal, diary, typescript or other material directly created by a given organization or individual.
Original documents can add an element of interest and authority to research.
In research for Masters Theses or Dissertations, they are nearly essential. The University of South Dakota's Archives and Special Collections primarily contain information about the history of USD, Native American History, Western and Plains History and the history of South Dakota. Includes historical material about the University. This is a collection of manuscript materials focusing primarily on the history of South Dakota, Native Americans and the West. Collection materials date back into the 19th century.