Scope and Content

The main focus of this collection is Celestia Lee Barker's journal, which she began in 1863 at the age of 17. She wrote consistently in the journal from 1863 to 1866, documenting the events of her daily life. There are only occasional entries after 1866. These later entries, written on birthdays or anniversaries, relate to the Barker's marriage and family.

Abstract Deane C. (1918-2010) and Marion Abbott (1919-2004) Gunderson lived on a farm near Rolfe in Pocahontas County, Iowa, for nearly six decades. Deane, a farmer and engineer by training, and Marion, a homemaker and librarian, both attended Iowa State College (University) during the late 1930s. They were active supporters of Iowa State's academic programs and devoted fans of Cyclone athletics throughout their lifetimes. The collection contains photograph albums, loose photographs, and genealogical...

Abstract Ordella J. Fossel (1909-2001), later Ordella Thompson, was born in Gilbert, Iowa. She graduated from Iowa State Teachers College (now University of Northern Iowa) in 1930 and taught school in Dinsdale, Iowa. The collection consists of two of Ordella's scrapbooks. These scrapbooks contain black and white photographs, mainly of her family and of the classes she taught in Dinsdale. The scrapbooks also contain two obituaries of Ordella's acquaintances and two cards from the memorial service. The...

Abstract "Voices from the Land: An Oral History Project in Iowa" was an oral history project done in conjunction with the Iowa Women's Archives at the University of Iowa. Individuals involved in agriculture and farming were interviewed. This collection contains oral histories (audio recordings and transcriptions) and background information. The oral histories are primarily of women involved in agriculture and farming, with the exception of Fred Kirschenmann. A portion of those interviewed have done...