Folklore Archive: Student Field Projects Records
Collection
Identifier: WSR002714
The Folklore Archive: Student Field Projects Records contain the written documentation involved with the project, including interview transcripts, student research papers, and background and administrative materials. The collection is strong in modern industrial and occupational folklore, reflecting the rich ethnic diversity and work-oriented heritage of Detroit and southeastern Michigan.
Empty folders included in the transfer by the donor as part of the materials were kept for the informational value contained on the folder titles. All folder titles include the donor's sequential numbering scheme in parentheses.
Empty folders included in the transfer by the donor as part of the materials were kept for the informational value contained on the folder titles. All folder titles include the donor's sequential numbering scheme in parentheses.
Dates
- 1939 - 1995
Creator
- Wayne State University. Folklore Archives (Organization)
Language of Materials
Material primarily in English; other languages possible.
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.
Extent
30 Linear Feet (30 SB)
Abstract
The Folklore Archive, established in 1939 by WSU English professors Emlyn Gardner and Thelma James, 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. These projects typically consist of transcripts of oral interviews conducted by the students as part of their research. The collection is strong in modern industrial and occupational folklore, reflecting the rich ethnic diversity and work-oriented heritage of Detroit and southeastern Michigan.
History
The Folklore Archive, established in 1939 by WSU English professors Emlyn Gardner and Thelma James, 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. These projects typically consist of transcripts of oral interviews conducted by the students as part of their research.
Arrangement
Arranged chronologically according to the donor's original order, including empty folders. Boxes 1-12 are inventoried at the folder level; boxes 13-30 at the box level. A few folders in boxes 16, 19, 23, 25, 29 and 30 were added at the end of the box and are out of order, according to the donor's numbering system.
Other Finding Aids
Projects are indexed for subject, ethnic/linguistic group and collector/author access. Index is available onsite at the Reuther Library Reading Room.
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, and opened for research in March of 2000.
Transfers
Audio recordings were transferred to the audiovisual department and added to the Folklore Archive: Student Field Projects Oral Histories.
Processing History
Processed and finding aid written by Gwyn Richards and Deborah Rice on 2019-07-02.
Creator
- Wayne State University. Folklore Archives (Organization)
- Title
- Guide to the Folklore Archive: Student Field Projects Records
- Status
- in_progress
- Author
- Processed by Walter P. Reuther Library, Gwyn Richards, and Deborah Rice.
- Date
- 2018-11
- Description rules
- Describing Archives: A Content Standard
- Language of description
- 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