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Clippings file of the James Weldon Johnson Memorial Collection

 Collection
Call Number: JWJ MSS 89
Scope and Contents

The Clippings File of the James Weldon Johnson Memorial Collection include pamphlets and clippings documenting various aspects of the African American experience in the twentieth century. The collection especially highlights the achievements of individual African Americans, the work of community and education organizations, and areas such as film, theater, music, sports, politics, and civil rights. The clippings were collected primarily by Langston Hughes, James Weldon and Grace Nail Johnson, Ollie Jewel Simms Okala (a friend and close associate of the Johnsons), and Carl Van Vechten, with some additional materials added by others. Clippings in the collection are drawn from national and regional news sources as well as newspapers and magazines with an African American focus. The majority of clippings are from New York, Ohio, Arkansas, Illinois, and Pennsylvania newspapers. The collection also includes pamphlets and ephemera.

Conditions Governing Access

The materials are open for research.

Conditions Governing Use

The Clippings File of the James Weldon Johnson Memorial Collection is the physical property of the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, Yale University. Literary rights, including copyright, belong to the authors or their legal heirs and assigns. For further information, consult the appropriate curator.

Immediate Source of Acquisition

Collection of documents acquired by gift and purchase from various sources. Source information is recorded on some items. For further information, consult the appropriate curator.

Arrangement

Organized into three series: Series I. Pamphlets. Series II. Personal/Corporate Names. Series III. General Subjects.

Dates
circa 1920-1993
Extent
122.36 Linear Feet (295 boxes)
Related Names
Hughes, Langston, 1902-1967
Johnson, Grace Nail, 1885-1976
Okala, Ollie Jewell Sims, 1908-2001
Van Vechten, Carl, 1880-1964
Language of Materials
English