Ira and Edita Morris papers, 1892-1988

Collection context

Creator:
Morris, Edita, 1902-1988 and Morris, I. V (Ira Victor), 1903-
Extent:
30.1 linear feet (52 document boxes 2 flat boxes)
Language:
English , Japanese , Swedish , French , German .
Scope and content:

Manuscripts, correspondence, photographs, documents, printed materials, books, and other papers of Ira V. and Edita Morris from 1892 to 1988. The couple's literary careers are documented by typescripts, notes, book reviews, and published versions of their work. Some of these materials are written in French, German, Swedish, Japanese, and other foreign languages. Included are subject files, financial records, and materials related to the Hiroshima House for atomic bombing victims and the couple's political activities. In addition, there is correspondence, documents, and photographs related to Edwin Seaver and his family.

Biographical / historical:

The authors Ira V. Morris and Edita (deToll) Morris married in February 1925. The son of Ira Nelson and Constance Lily (Rothschild) Morris, Ira V. Morris (1903-1972) was born in Chicago, Illinois. His father was a diplomat and he was raised abroad before earning a B. A. from Harvard University. During his literary career, Ira's fiction and non-fiction works often depicted the intrigues of Americans abroad and political subjects. Born in Orebro, Sweden, Edita deToll Morris (1902-1988) began her career writing short stories. Edita's first literary works were inspired by her childhood and then her writing expanded to reflect her travels and political interests. Her most notable success was The Flowers of Hiroshima, a novel about post-WWII Japan that earned international acclaim. In 1957, the couple founded Hiroshima House, a recreation center and hostel for the survivors of the atomic bombings. In addition, the Morris's were political activists committed to nuclear disarmament, opposed to many U.S. policies of the Cold War, and related causes. Edwin Seaver (1900-), an American author and critic, was born in Washington, D. C. During his career, Edwin worked for the publisher Little, Brown, the Book of the Month Club, several magazines, and various newspapers. He edited short stories by Edita Morris for publication in Cross Section and other collections. It appears that Edwin had a relationship with Edita Morris following the deaths of their spouses.

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:

Single photocopies 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); Ira and Edita Morris papers; Box and Folder; Rare Book and Manuscript Library, Columbia University Library.

Location of this collection:
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