Elva Griffiths Family Papers

Collection

Identifier: WCMss-442

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

The Elva Griffiths Papers collection houses the personal and family papers of Elva Griffiths. This collection, dating from 1849 to 1966, consists of letters addressed to and written by Elva Griffiths, as well as photographs, scrapbooks, documents, manuscripts, notebooks, and clippings. These provide a glimpse into the everyday lives and political opinions of women in early and mid-20th century Washington, especially regarding World War Two and issues of socialism and Communism.

Dates

Creation: 1849-1966

Creator

Griffiths, Elva (Person)

Conditions Governing Access

Collection is open for research.

Biographical Note

Elva Seabury Griffiths, born September 24, 1889 in Plainview, Nebraska, moved to Walla Walla, Washington in 1919, where she worked as a music teacher and librarian. She married Daniel Griffiths, an optician, after graduating from Doane College in Nebraska. Her daughter, Perry Genevieve Baker, worked as a teacher in Seattle, and would correspond with her mother frequently about political and social issues, most notably from 1930 to 1945. Elva lived in Walla Walla from 1919 until her death on May 8, 1966, at the age of 76.

Extent

5 Linear Feet (5 record cartons)

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

Elva Seabury Griffiths, born September 24, 1889 in Plainview, Nebraska, moved to Walla Walla in 1919, where she worked as a music teacher and librarian. The Elva Griffiths Papers, dating from 1849 to 1966, consists of letters addressed to and written by Elva Griffiths, as well as personal and family photographs, scrapbooks, documents, manuscripts, notebooks, and clippings.