Folklore Archive: Studies and Research Projects Records
Collection
Identifier: WSR001731
Scope and Content
The Folklore Archive: Studies and Research Projects Records contains scholarly papers documenting Greek-American family life and the migration of Southern Appalachian whites to the metropolitan Detroit area.
Transcripts complemented by audio recordings are so indicated in the inventory. Greek-American Family project oral histories, 1983-84, listed by family name all have recordings available in the Folklore Archive: Greek-American Family Life Oral Histories, unless otherwise noted.
Transcripts complemented by audio recordings are so indicated in the inventory. Greek-American Family project oral histories, 1983-84, listed by family name all have recordings available in the Folklore Archive: Greek-American Family Life Oral Histories, unless otherwise noted.
Dates
- 1968 - 1995
Creator
- Wayne State University (Organization)
Language of Materials
Material entirely in English.
Access
Collection is open for research.
Use
Refer to the Walter P. Reuther Library
Rules for Use of Archival Materials.Restrictions: Researchers may encounter records of a sensitive nature – personnel files, case records and those involving investigations, legal and other private matters. Privacy laws and restrictions imposed by the Library prohibit the use of names and other personal information which might identify an individual, except with written permission from the Director and/or the donor.
History
The Folklore Archive, established in 1939 by WSU English professors Emlyn Gardner and Thelma James and contains the oldest and largest record of urban folk traditions in the United States. To document these traditions, Wayne State University students conducted field research projects covering a broad range of topics. The archive is strong in modern industrial and occupational folklore, reflecting the rich ethnic diversity and work-oriented heritage of Detroit and southeastern Michigan.
Extent
2 Linear Feet (2 SB)
Abstract
The Folklore Archive, established in 1939, contains the oldest and largest record of urban folk traditions in the United States. To document these traditions, Wayne State University students conducted field research projects covering a broad range of topics. The archive is strong in modern industrial and occupational folklore, reflecting the rich ethnic diversity and work-oriented heritage of Detroit and southeastern Michigan. The Folklore Archive: Studies and Research Projects Records contain transcripts and research studies related to Greek-American family life, Southern upland migrant folk culture, traditional medical beliefs and American folk music.
Arrangement
Arranged alphabetically by project title.
Acquisition
Selected materials from the Wayne State University Folklore Archive were transferred to the Archives of Labor and Urban Affairs in July of 1999 by the Archive’s director, Professor Janet Langlois.
Transfers
A number of reel-to-reel and cassette audiotapes of oral interviews have been transferred to the Archives Audiovisual Department (see related materials note). A microfilm copy of a Master’s thesis by Margaret T. Buchanan entitled “Migration of Workers from Tennessee to Michigan” has been placed in the Archives Library.
Processing History
Processed and finding aid written by Walter P. Reuther Library in March 2000. Revised in 2019 by Deborah Rice.
- African Americans
- African Americans -- Medical care
- Appalachians (People)
- Detroit (Mich.)
- Ethnic groups -- United States
- Families -- United States
- Folk songs
- Folklore
- Greek Americans
- Greek language -- Dialects
- Immigrants -- United States
- Manners and customs
- Religious life
- Rural-urban migration -- United States
- Traditional medicine
- Transcripts
- Urban legends
- Working class--Songs and music
Creator
- Wayne State University (Organization)
- Wayne State University. Folklore Archives (Organization)
- Title
- Guide to the Folklore Archive: Studies and Research Projects Records
- Status
- Completed
- Author
- Processed by Walter P. Reuther Library.
- Date
- 2000-03
- Description rules
- Describing Archives: A Content Standard
- Language of description
- English
- Script of description
- Latin
- Language of description note
- English
Repository Details
Part of the Walter P. Reuther Library Repository
Contact:
5401 Cass Avenue
Detroit MI 48202 USA
5401 Cass Avenue
Detroit MI 48202 USA