Oral Histories Project

Preserving the Voices of Our Heritage

The Oral Histories Project is an ongoing effort by the Czech Center Museum Houston to document, preserve, and share the lived experiences of individuals whose stories reflect Czech and Slovak heritage. These first-hand accounts, of immigration and identity, of military service and sacrifice, of perseverance under communism, form a vital record of our shared past.

Oral histories allow us to preserve history in the voices of those who lived it. Storytelling captures emotion, memory, and perspective, helping future generations understand not just what happened, but how it was felt and remembered. Each story adds depth to our understanding of the Czech and Slovak experience and strengthens the connection between the museum and the communities it serves.

The Czech Center Museum Houston carefully preserves each submitted oral history in its growing digital archives. With permission, these recordings and transcripts may be featured in exhibitions, educational programming, and research initiatives. All submissions are reviewed and catalogued to ensure that these stories remain accessible to scholars, students, and the public for years to come.

Explore our collections:

You can help preserve these voices for the future:

  • [Submit Your Story] – Share your own experiences or family history.

  • [Submit on Behalf of Someone] – Record and share a story from a parent, grandparent, or friend.

Immigration Stories
Life Under Communism
Military Stories

By contributing or exploring, you join a growing effort to honor, remember, and learn from the lives that shaped Czech and Slovak history. Together, we ensure these voices continue to inform and inspire generations to come.