A Glimpse into Government Record Management: The 1941 Disposition of Western Michigan Marshal’s Records
In a recent update to the Congressional Record, a document detailing historical government operations has been made publicly accessible. Specifically, the Serial Set, a compilation of important government documents, now includes “H. Rept. 77-715 – Disposition of records by the United States Marshal for the western district of Michigan, with the approval of the Department of Justice. June 2, 1941.” This report, ordered to be printed on June 2, 1941, offers a fascinating insight into the administrative practices of the United States Marshal’s Service in the western district of Michigan during a pivotal era.
The document, made available through the efforts of GovInfo.gov, the United States Government Publishing Office’s portal for official publications, highlights a routine yet crucial aspect of government: the management and disposition of official records. While the specifics of the records themselves are not immediately detailed in the title, the fact that their disposition required the approval of the Department of Justice underscores the rigorous protocols governing such actions, even in 1941.
The United States Marshal’s Service has a long and vital history, serving as the enforcement arm of the federal courts. Their operations inherently generate a significant volume of documentation, encompassing everything from arrest records and court case files to property seizures and witness protection information. The responsible and orderly management of these records is paramount for legal continuity, historical preservation, and efficient government functioning.
This particular report, “Disposition of records,” likely outlines the process by which outdated or no longer actively needed records were handled. This could have involved various methods, such as transfer to archival facilities for long-term preservation, secure destruction if they had no further historical or legal value, or other approved forms of record retention. The involvement of the Department of Justice in granting approval suggests a standardized procedure was in place, ensuring that no vital information was inadvertently lost or improperly discarded.
The publication of this historical report by GovInfo.gov serves as a valuable resource for researchers, historians, and anyone interested in the administrative history of the U.S. Marshal’s Service and the broader workings of the federal government. It reminds us of the meticulous attention to detail required in managing public records, a practice that continues to be essential in today’s digital age.
By making such historical documents accessible, GovInfo.gov plays a crucial role in promoting transparency and providing the public with the opportunity to explore the evolution of governmental processes. This report from 1941, now readily available, offers a small but significant window into the past, illustrating the ongoing commitment to responsible record-keeping that underpins the integrity of our nation’s institutions.
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govinfo.gov Congressional SerialSet published ‘H. Rept. 77-715 – Disposition of records by the United States Marshal for the western district of Michig an, with the approval of the Department of Justice. June 2, 1941. — Ordered to be printed’ at 2025-08-23 01:45. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.