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Material Texts: Jana Dambrogio (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) "Letterlocking: The Hidden History of the Letter"

  • Monday, April 14, 2025 - 5:15pm to 7:00pm

Class of 1978 Pavilion, sixth floor of the Van Pelt-Dietrich Library


We are thrilled to welcome Jana Dambrogio (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) for a talk titled: “Letterlocking: The Hidden History of the Letter.”

Jana Dambrogio writes:

This talk delves into the fascinating art of letterlocking—an innovative method of folding and securing a letter into its envelope for delivery. This centuries-old practice was a crucial document security technology utilized by notable historical figures, from Elizabeth I and her spies to Japanese samurai lords. Letterlocking transcended cultures, borders, and social classes, highlighting its significance in history. This presentation will demonstrate how scholars have come together to unravel the intricate techniques employed by letter writers over millennia to safeguard their correspondence, preserving the vital element of privacy. I will provide models for participants to open and keep, and explore the resources available to researchers who want to incorporate letterlocking into their projects.

Jana Dambrogio is a conservator, researcher, educator, and artist specializing in developing freely accessible resources and treatment techniques to conserve the integrity of material culture and the secrets they contain. Dambrogio works as the Thomas F. Peterson (1957) Conservator at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Libraries. She previously held positions at the US National Archives, the United Nations and the Vatican Apostolic Archives. She is the Director of the Unlocking History Research Group, and the co-author of Letterlocking: The Hidden History of the Letter (with Daniel Starza Smith and the Unlocking History Research Group).