Africa, circa 1915-1949

File — Box: 1, Reel: 48, microdex: 1

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

Documents concerning YWCA of the U.S.A. work in Africa. YWCA of the U.S.A. secretaries in Africa seek to help develop women's social, physical, intellectual, and spiritual selves through developing programs, establishing associations and training leaders. In South Africa, secretaries work with rural and urban women and face issues of racism, segregation and a stratified culture. Correspondence from West Africa contains descriptions of climate and living conditions as the secretaries adjust to a new way of life. Careful consideration is given prior to sending secretaries to various regions as shown in correspondence and reports providing descriptions of the characteristics and training required. Reports and bulletins summarize programming efforts and progress made while correspondence and notes may provide a more intimate look into the adjustment of the secretaries, their work and issues they face.

Dates of Materials

circa 1915-1949

Language of Materials

English

Conditions Governing Access

From the Record Group: This collection is open for use without restriction beyond the standard terms and conditions of Smith College Special Collections.

However, by agreement with the YWCA of the U.S.A., microdexes known to contain financial records or personal health information (usually on job applications) were not digitized and/or not published in our online repository as part of the CLIR Digitizing Hidden Collections grant. These microdexes may still be accessed on the original microfilm, and digital files may be made available to individual researchers upon request.

Conditions Governing Access

From the Record Group: Until we move into New Neilson in early 2021, collections are stored in multiple locations and may take up to 48 hours to retrieve. Researchers are strongly encouraged to contact Special Collections (specialcollections@smith.edu) at least a week in advance of any planned visits so that boxes may be retrieved for them in a timely manner.