Al McVay Papers

Collection

Identifier: WCMss-435

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

The Al McVay Papers, dating from circa 1929 to 1999, consist most significantly of newspaper clippings regarding German prisoners of war who were held in Walla Walla after World War Two (1943-1999), as well as documentation of the prisoners of war working in canneries in the area, in the form of personal and business correspondence, financial and residence records, utility bills, lodging rules and agreements, and excerpts from a personal planner (circa 1942-1945). The collection also contains various undated military event brochures, letters from McVay documenting his time in Walla Walla (1936, 1987), a document detailing Congressional funding for roads in Walla Walla (1860), a “Toast of Good Fellowship” from the Walla Walla Grand Hotel (1985), and assorted wartime photographs and cartoons (circa 1940-1946).

Dates

circa 1929-1999

Creator

McVay, Alfred (Person)

Biographical Note

Alfred “Al” McVay was born Oct. 20, 1906 in St. Paul, Minnesota. He attended Whitman College from 1924 to 1928, where he met Clara Gross, whom he married in 1931. He worked as a reporter and sports editor at the Walla Walla Union Bulletin newspaper for six years before becoming a director of the Walla Walla Chamber of Commerce, a position which he held for 25 years. Additionally, he founded a public relations and community development firm named McVay and Associates, played a major part in planning centennial and bicentennial celebrations for Whitman College, and was a lifetime member of the Elks Lodge. McVay passed in his home on Oct. 29, 2002, at the age of 96. He was survived by his children Jerry and Nancy, as well as two grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Extent

0.2 Linear Feet (1 manuscript box)

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

Alfred “Al” McVay was a Walla Walla resident who worked for the Walla Walla Union Bulletin newspaper as well as the Chamber of Commerce. The Al McVay Papers (circa 1929 to 1999), consist most significantly of newspaper clippings regarding German prisoners of war who were held in Walla Walla during and after World War Two (1943-1999), as well as documentation of the prisoners of war working in canneries in the area (circa 1942 to 1945).

Immediate Source of Acquisition

These materials were donated to the Whitman College and Northwest Archives by Al McVay between 1980 and 1985. The accession number associated with this donation is retro-0455.