National Sharecroppers Fund Photographs

Collection

Identifier: LAV000393

Staff Only

The National Sharecroppers Fund Photographs consists of images taken and collected by the NSF between 1946 and 1975. The images document the lives of sharecroppers and their families, NSF activities, and the activities of related organizations, such as the National Farm Workers Association, which was a predecessor of the United Farm Workers. Primarily black and white prints, there are also some color prints, a selection of color 35mm slides, and some negatives.

Dates

1946 - 1975
Majority of material found within 1957 - 1970

Creator

National Sharecroppers’ Fund (U.S.) (Organization)

Language of Materials

Material entirely in English.

Access

Collection is open for research. Patrons must make an appointment with the AV Department prior to visiting.

Use

Refer to the Walter P. Reuther Library Rules for Use of Archival Materials. For image reproduction, contact the AV Department.

Extent

5 Linear Feet ((8 MB, 1 OS).) : Includes black-and-white prints and film negatives, color prints, and color 35mm slides.

Additional Description

Abstract

The National Sharecroppers Fund (NSF) was incorporated in 1943 and grew out of “National Sharecroppers Week,” an annual event intended to rally support for the Southern Tenant Farmers Union. NSF was founded to provide financial assistance and information on government aid programs to organizations dedicated to improving living conditions for the rural poor. The photograph collection consists of images documenting NSF activities and the lives of sharecroppers and their families from the 1940s through to the mid 1970s.

History

The National Sharecroppers Fund (NSF), incorporated in 1943, grew out of “National Sharecroppers Week,” an annual even begun in 1937 with the goal of rallying support for the fledgling Southern Tenant Farmers Union. A non-profit, voluntary organization, NSF was founded to provide financial assistance and information on government aid programs to organizations dedicated to improving living conditions for the rural poor. They also worked in close cooperation with such agencies as the National Advisory Committee on Farm Labor (NACFL), the National Council on Agricultural Life and Labor, and the National Farm Workers Association.

Arrangement

Folders are grouped by format. Within each group folder arrangement is alphabetical by subject.

Prints: Boxes 1-7; Negatives: Box 8; Slides: Box 9; Oversized and matted prints: Box 10