Bill of Rights Fund records, 1954-1966

Creator:
Bill of Rights Fund
Abstract:
This collection contains financial documents pertaining to grants awarded and refused by the Bill of Rights Fund in addition to correspondence, minutes, reports and printed matter.
Extent:
6.5 linear feet 15 boxes
Language:
English .
Scope and content:

Correspondence, minutes, reports, financial documents, clippings, and pamphlets of the Bill of Rights Fund.

Biographical / historical:

The Bill of Rights Fund was founded in New York in 1954 to provide financial aid in civil liberties court cases that raised important constitutional issues. The officers were: Corliss Lamont, President; Eleanor Jackson Piel, Secretary; Palmer Weber, treasurer; and Philip Wittenberg, Counsel. During its more than 11 years of existence, the Bill of Rights Fund made grants in excess of $160,000 to more than 165 individuals and organizations. The Fund suspended operations in 1966 because contributions to it had steadily decreased and it was never able to obtain tax exemption for gifts.

Access and use

Restrictions:

This collection is located off-site. You will need to request this material at least three business days in advance to use the collection in the Rare Book and Manuscript Library reading room.

This collection has no restrictions.

Terms of access:

Reproductions may be made for research purposes. The RBML maintains ownership of the physical material only. Copyright remains with the creator and his/her heirs. The responsibility to secure copyright permission rests with the patron.

Preferred citation:

Identification of specific item; Date (if known);Bill of Rights Fund records; Box and Folder; Rare Book and Manuscript Library, Columbia University Library.

Location of this collection:
RBML Home Page
6th Floor East Butler Library
535 West 114th Street
New York, NY 10027, USA
Before you visit:
Researchers interested in viewing materials in the RBML reading room must must book an appointment at least 7 days in advance. To make the most of your visit, be sure to request your desired materials before booking your appointment, as researchers are limited to 5 items per day.
Contact:
rbml@library.columbia.edu