Godfrey Dewey papers, 1887-1977, bulk 1926-1977

Collection context

Creator:
Dewey, Godfrey, 1887-1977
Extent:
72.5 linear feet (59 record storage boxes; 17 document boxes; 2 flat boxes)
Language:
English .
Scope and content:

Correspondence, published and unpublished writings, printed pamphlets, and miscellaneous documents dating largely from approximately the 1920s until Dewey's death in 1977. These concern the Phonemic Spelling Council, and Dewey's other work in spelling reform; teaching; Emerson College; Dewey decimal classification; the Lake Placid Club and the Olympic Winter Games, ca. 1930s-1970s; and childhood, education, and family matters. His wills, 1944-1974, and obituaries are included. Also, memorabilia including books from his library and a phonetic typewriter.

Biographical / historical:

Educator, spelling reformer. Dewey was founder and first president of the Phonetic Spelling Council; and was involved with Emerson College from 1940-1968, and president of Emerson College, 1949-1951. He was the son of Melvil Dewey, the founder of the Dewey decimal system.

Access and use

Restrictions:

This collection has no 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.

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); Godfrey Dewey 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