Dwight D. Eisenhower: Letters to the President, 1949-1952

Creator:
Columbia University. Office of the President
Abstract:
This collection is comprised of letters sent to Eisenhower during his presidency at Columbia University.
Extent:
2 linear feet (4 document boxes)
Language:
English .
Scope and content:

This collection is comprised of correspondence, mostly letters, with the inclusion of some packages in which individuals added photos, posters, notebooks, or other ephemera.

Biographical / historical:

After World War II and before his terms as President of the United States, Dwight D. Eisenhower served as President of Columbia University. His prior roles as Supreme Allied Commander in Europe and General of the Army during World War II had made him a household name, a distinction that did not diminish during his tenure at the University.

This collection of correspondence was coined the "CP" file by Eisenhower's staff as an abbreviation for "Crazy People." The letters are characterized by assertions of conspiracy theories, fear of war, and opinions on a range of topics - homosexuality, ethnicity, and religion being only a few. There is no evidence that the letters were answered, but their existence gives voice to the anxieties that surrounded post World War II America, the Korean War, and societal change.

Some letters are from veterans or the mothers of soldiers, others are from individuals who firmly believe in peace or who believe they have important knowledge that would be helpful to Eisenhower with regard to military or government affairs.

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); Dwight D. Eisenhower: Letters to the President; Box and Folder; University Archives, Rare Book and Manuscript Library, Columbia University Library.

Location of this collection:
University Archives 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:
uarchives@columbia.edu