The Roberta Church Collection

Processed by Patricia M. LaPointe

Curator, Memphis & Shelby County Room

2005

Memphis Public Library & Information Center

3030 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN 38111 Roberta Church Collection

Scope and Provenance

Materials in the Collection were given to the Public Library by Roberta Church over a period of several years and include correspondence, photographs, awards, newspaper clippings, greeting cards, and memorabilia.

Much of the collection details Miss Church’s career in government service and her active role in the National Republican Party, following in her father’s footsteps. Portions of the collection pertain to family members, including her beloved aunt Annette Church, sister of Robert R. Church, Jr., and , older half-sister of Robert Church, Jr.

The papers of the Church Family, including those of Robert R. Church, Sr. and Jr., Annette Elaine Church, and Roberta Church were given by Miss Church to the Mississippi Valley Collection in 1976 and are quite extensive. The Roberta Church Collection does, however, contain some material on all family members. Much of the material in this collection dates from the period after 1976.

Also, included in the collection is extensive information on efforts to restore Church Park in recognition of Robert R. Church, Sr.’s outstanding contributions to Memphis and the public good. When built at the turn of the 19th century, Church’s Auditorium was one of the largest in the South and was set in a beautiful park. Many prominent individuals appeared there, including President Theodore Roosevelt and Booker T. Washington.

Church’s Auditorium, which was renamed Beale Avenue Auditorium because the local political establishment was at odds with Robert R. Church, Jr., was demolished after the end of World War II and the park neglected for many years. By the 1970s, the seven- acre park was a wasteland. Its successful rebirth and dedication in 1987 is detailed in Box VIII correspondence.

Material pertaining to Miss Church includes:

Box I—Correspondence, personal (including cards) and business Box II—Correspondence, personal and business Box III—Organizations Box IV—Sara Roberta Church, biographical, awards, photographs Box V—Sara Roberta Church, photographs, programs, travel

Material pertaining to the Church family includes:

Box VI—Robert R. Church, Sr. and Jr. Box VII—Church Family Box VIII—Church Park Box IX—Periodicals Box X—Newspaper Clippings Roberta Church

Biography

Sara Roberta Church, daughter of Sara Parody Johnson and Robert Reed Church, Jr., was born in Memphis, Tennessee, into one of the nation’s most prominent Black families. Her grandfather, Robert Reed Church, Sr., was acknowledged as the South’s first African American millionaire. Roberta Church’s privileged world provided travel and educational opportunities enjoyed by few, whether black or white. The Church family was instrumental in the founding of Emmanuel Episcopal Church and was educated locally at LeMoyne Normal School, an elementary and high school, which later became LeMoyne College. Miss Church continued her education at Northwestern University in Chicago, where she received Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in the social sciences.

Roberta Church, proudly following in the footsteps of her distinguished family, was active in politics and social justice. After her father’s sudden death in April 1952, she ran in his place for a position on the Republican State Executive Committee of Tennessee and was elected, making her the first Black woman to be elected to public office in Shelby County. Following the 1952 victory of Republican Dwight D. Eisenhower, Miss Church was appointed Minority Groups Consultant in the Department of Labor. She next served in the Department of Health, Education and Welfare overseeing various Federal- State programs. During her years in Washington, D.C., Roberta Church shared her home with her beloved aunt, Annette Elaine Church, sister of Robert R. Church, Jr.

Miss Church served in other prominent national positions until her retirement and return to Memphis. During her nearly 30 years of distinguished professional service in Washington, D.C., Roberta Church carried the standard raised by her late father in behalf of civil rights for all Americans. Her father had been the leading organizer of the Memphis Chapter, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, which received its charter in 1918. Robert R. Church, Jr., was a friend of , who encouraged Church to organize a local NAACP Chapter. All the adult Church family members were charter members.

Roberta Church served in other prominent national positions until her retirement. On her return to Memphis, she continued her involvement in a wide range of activities and organizations. History organizations, including the Shelby County Historical Commission, and social groups such as the Phillis Wheatley Society benefited from her knowledge and active interest. Miss Church was especially interested in Elmwood Cemetery, where family members are buried in the Church mausoleum.

Perhaps the most significant undertaking of her retirement years was her sustained effort to have Church Park restored as a memorial to her grandfather, Robert R. Church, Sr., who established Church’s Park and Auditorium, one of the largest facilities created for . Working with other public-spirited citizens to achieve the restoration of the park, Roberta Church realized this goal when Church Park was dedicated in 1987. It was fitting recognition of the man who gave this gift to his people and was a testimony to his granddaughter’s determination to see this piece of land restored to its former prominence. The bronze bust of Robert R. Church, Sr., placed in the park, as well as thousands of tulip and jonquil bulbs to beautify the grounds, were given by Miss Church.

During her lifetime, Roberta Church received numerous awards and honors for her dedication to social justice and human rights. After her retirement, she continued to enjoy travel and family, as well as a wide circle of friends with whom she kept in contact. At her death on July 15, 1995, Memphis lost a great lady and a distinguished citizen. Roberta Church was laid to rest beside her family in Elmwood Cemetery.

THE ROBERTA CHURCH COLLECTION

BOX I

Correspondence

Material in Box I and Box II includes correspondence on a wide range of subjects with the folders arranged in alphabetical order.

Folder Items Contents Description

1 5 Redevelopment Correspondence pertains to the redevelopment of Beale Street and Ms. Church’s wish to not be brought into any controversy concerning this work; also, a letter inviting Ms. Church to the Beale Street redevelopment dedication in Handy Park on October 8, 1983.

2 1 Book, Angel of Beale Street Copy of letter from Selma Lewis and Marjean Kremer to the Hooks family regarding their book The Angel of Beale Street. The Hooks family requested removal of an allusion to a romantic involvement between Robert Church, Sr. and Julia Britton Hooks.

3 14 Cards and Notes—Personal Folder contains various congratulatory cards and messages, including acknowledgments of sympathy messages sent by Ms. Church. Most items have envelope attached with Ms. Church’s handwritten note identifying individual who sent card or letter. (Items are not in date order.)

4 13 Cards and Notes—Personal Folder includes cards and messages from family and friends who are identified in notations by Ms. Church.

5 12 Cards and Notes—Personal Folder includes cards, notes and family photos.

6 16 Cards and Notes—Personal Folder is a continuation of handwritten notes, cards and expressions of regard and affection.

7 19 Cards and Notes—Personal Folder contains cards from friends around the country, which show long-standing friendships.

8 9 Correspondence—Charles W. Crawford Letters from Dr. Charles W. Crawford to Ms. Church pertain to Church Park on Beale Street and other historic locations on Beale.

9 12 Correspondence—Elmwood Cemetery Included in this file are letters pertaining to the Church family mausoleum in Elmwood, a furniture gift from Ms. Church for the Victorian cemetery office (on the National Historic Register), and the naming of Ms. Church to the Elmwood Advisory Committee in 1988 following her retirement from government service.

10 9 Correspondence—Fred L. Hutchins Letters from Fred L. Hutchins to Ms. Church include much biographical material, as well as information on the history of Memphis. Also, there is correspondence on a 1982 tribute to Hutchins sponsored jointly by the Memphis Public Library and LeMoyne-Owen College. Mr. Hutchins attended LeMoyne when it was a grammar school and high school.

11 14 Correspondence—IBOEP of the World—Leaders Folder contains letters, newspaper clippings, and programs that detail the leadership role which Robert R. Church, Jr., took in the Elks organization locally and nationally. Of related interest is information on Lt. George W. Lee, as well as Church Park Auditorium. The old Bluff City Elks organization was renamed the Robert R. Church Lodge No. 1477. The folder also contains a photo of the Elks marching on Beale Street and carrying a banner “Robt. R. Church Lodge #1477 I.B.P.O.E. of W. Memphis.”

12 20 Correspondence—Invitations Folder includes both social and civic invitations, including weddings, openings, and other celebratory events.

13 12 Correspondence—John Q. Taylor King Folder includes correspondence from John Q. Taylor King, Chancellor and President of Huston-Tillotson College in Austin, TX. The folder includes much genealogical information on the family. There is also a photo of John King and his mother Alice Woodson Taylor King.

14 6 Correspondence—Libraries Letters pertain to the Robert R. Church Collection at the University of Memphis Library. Also, included is the copy of a letter from Ms. Church to the Hollis F. Price Library at LeMoyne-Owen College. 15 5 Correspondence—Lincoln League Three items pertain to the 1916 founding in Memphis of the Lincoln Republican League of Tennessee. The League was organized by Robert R. Church, Jr. A 1966 letter from an editor of the Memphis Press-Scimitar to Annette E. Church (sister of Robert R. Church) apologized for the newspaper’s error in attributing formation of the Lincoln League to Lt. George W. Lee in 1935.

16 1 Correspondence—Henry Cabot Lodge Letter from Senator Lodge to Ms. Church expressing his thanks for her letter and enclosures. He also sent her his photograph.

17 1 Correspondence—Dr. J. B. Martin File contains a copy of a ten-page legal memorandum written by Dr. J. B. Martin pertaining to harassment and persecution by the Memphis Police Department because of his political activities. Dr. Martin owned a drug store and also was owner of the Memphis Red Sox Baseball Team. Martin charged that E. H. Crump was the instigator of this unlawful treatment.

18 12 Correspondence—Memphis/Shelby County Public Library Most of the correspondence is in regard to an illustrated lecture, which Ms. Church presented at the library in February 1980 in celebration of Black History Month. Her presentation, co- sponsored by the Library and the West Tennessee Historical Society, described the early history of Beale Street. Notes for the talk are included in the file. Other letters acknowledge materials donated to the library by Ms. Church.

19 11 Correspondence—Miscellaneous Folder contains a variety of letters, including one from James Hagerty, Press Secretary to President Eisenhower; also copy of a letter from Ms. Church to Dr. Lester C. Lamon which challenges certain of his statements pertaining to her father and grandfather; a letter of thanks from W. Herbert Brewster; and a detailed letter on local politics written by Harry Woodbury, retired columnist for the Commercial Appeal.

20 10 Correspondence—Officials of Government Agencies Folder contains letters pertaining to government appointments held by Ms. Church, a letter from Memphis Mayor J. O. Patterson, and a letter from Gov. Lamar Alexander asking Ms. Church to serve on the Capitol Restoration Advisory Committee.

BOX II

1 6 Correspondence—A. Philip Randolph

Folder includes letters to Ms. Church from A. Philip Randolph offering congratulations on her appointment as consultant in the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, comments on his close friendship with her father, and a letter enclosing a photograph. The folder also includes copy of an open letter to E. H. Crump dated April 6, 1944, blasting the political leader for denouncing Randolph’s proposed visit to Memphis.

2 6 Correspondence—Republican Party Folder includes printed material on Roberta Church’s inclusion in the local Republican Party and the party’s efforts to elect Eisenhower President. A 1986 letter to Ms. Church inviting her to join the Republican Party carries her handwritten note stating “how ironic” that a third generation Republican Party member was being invited to join the Shelby County organization.

3 3 Correspondence—John N. Ruffin Ruffin was the first Memphian of color to be employed in the U.S. foreign service. He was with the American Consulate in Asuncion, Paraguay. He was a friend of Robert R. Church, Jr.

4 3 Correspondence—Jessie Carney Smith Folder includes material on Roberta Church’s selection for inclusion in Directory of Significant 20th Century American Minority Women, edited by Fisk University Librarian Jessie Carney Smith.

5 20 Correspondence—Solvent Savings Bank & Trust Company Included in the folder are items relating to the organization of the bank in 1906 by Robert R. Church, Sr. Later correspondence relates to the dedication of a historical marker at 392 Beale, home of the Solvent Savings Bank, as well as letters from Ms. Church’s attorney, which were written to correct numerous factual errors regarding the bank’s failure, its correct location, etc. At the peak of its success, the Solvent Savings Bank was the fourth largest black- owned bank in the country.

6 1 Correspondence—Tri-State Defender Letter to the newspaper correcting its error in stating that Dorothea Church was a direct descendant of Robert Church, Sr.

7 18 Correspondence—US Dept. Health, Education & Welfare Correspondence to and from professional colleagues pertaining to her appointment to the U. S. Department of Labor and her later appointment to HEW’s Office of Vocational Rehabilitation.

8 13 Correspondence—Ronald Anderson Walter, Invitations This folder and the two following contain letters, invitations, and other personal items from Ron Walter to Roberta Church. The two were long-time, close friends, and Ms. Church was considered a family member. Ron Walter was noted for his elaborate Christmas parties and the large number of people invited to these celebrations.

9 6 Correspondence—Ronald Anderson Walter, Recognition Letters in this folder, along with a program, relate to promotions or recognition Mr. Walter received during the late 1980s. One item pertains to his wife’s work with the Memphis Junior League.

10 4 Correspondence—Ronald Anderson Walter, Wedding Items in this folder pertain to the wedding of Ronald Walter and Marianne Savare, one of the largest and most elaborate weddings ever conducted in Memphis.

11 3 Correspondence—Ida B Wells, Exhibits and Historic Marker Items in this folder pertain to a Wells commemorative stamp and to the dedication of a historic marker on Beale Street in 1987.

12 1 Correspondence—Harry Woodbury A long letter from retired Press-Scimitar political reporter on his recollections of George W. Lee and local politics.

BOX III

Organizations

1 12 Emmanuel Episcopal Church The Robert R. Church, Seniors were among the founders of Emmanuel Episcopal Church. Included are worship folders and other material on the history of this congregation. The 1950 program commemorating the congregation’s 75th anniversary has significant information on Emmanuel’s members. A new church on Winchester was dedicated in 1989.

2 18 First Baptist Church Beale Street The folder contains a great deal of information on this historic African American congregation founded in 1863 by Black Memphians. The Shelby County Historical Commission acknowledged this date in a resolution dated July 22, 1981. See also newspaper clippings in Box X.

3 2 Institute of Human Resource Development The folder contains a study on rehabilitation of handicapped migrant farm workers with a letter of appreciation to Ms. Church for her leadership and support of the project.

4 6 Lee, George W.—National Historic Register Correspondence in the file pertains to errors of location in the National Historic Register designation for the W. C. Handy Music Publishing Co., the Tri-State Bank, and the George W. Lee House.

5 4 Lemoyne-Owen College Roberta Church was a graduate of the LeMoyne Elementary and High School prior to its becoming a college. She was a devoted alumna of the school. The folder includes two programs, a photograph, and a typed page dated May 15, 1931, when a young Roberta was chosen Queen of the May.

6 1 Memphis Pink Palace Museum The Pink Palace letter details Church family artifacts that will be on display as part of the Historic Black Memphians Exhibit.

7 11 Mid-South Minority Purchasing Council, Inc. The folder contains information on the MMPC, whose annual awards were named in honor of Robert R. Church, Sr. A short biographical profile of Church, Sr., was included in the annual awards program.

8 7 Mud Island, Friends of—Charter Membership The folder includes Charter Membership information for Friends of Mud Island, as well as an invitation to the grand opening ceremonies on July 3, 1982.

9 2 National Association Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) The file contains two letters pertaining to the fact that Ms. Church was not receiving , the NAACP publication. There is significant information in Box 6 concerning the establishment of the Memphis Branch of the NAACP by Robert R. Church, Jr. The Church family held charter membership in the Memphis Chapter.

10 1 Oates, J. C. & Sons Funeral Directors Folder contains an advertising photograph for Oates & Sons which includes a photograph of J. C. Oates and his family. 11 5 Overton Park Vision and Inspiration The file includes an outline of the history of Overton Park and the correspondence detailing the plan to prepare an exhibit on the History of Overton Park for display at Memphis Brooks Museum of Art. Ms. Church was a contributing member of Citizens to Preserve Overton Park.

12 18 Phillis Wheatley Literary and Social Club This folder includes much information on the celebration marking the 75th anniversary of the (Memphis) Phillis Wheatley Literary Society which was held at Memphis Brooks Museum of Art May 21, 1989. Wheatley, a slave who gained renown in the 1760s in England and America for her poetry, was only the second woman whose work was published during the Colonial period. Included are color photographs of the Society members made at the Brooks.

13 9 Shelby County Historical Commission File includes a number of programs from annual Shelby County Historical Commission awards dinners, as well as a 1987 letter from Mayor William Morris reappointing Ms. Church as a member of the SCHC.

14 4 Tennessee Historical Commission Included in the folder are a letter from Governor Lamar Alexander asking Ms. Church to serve as a member of the Capitol Restoration Advisory Committee, a letter and program on the designation of Jackson’s Drug Store to historical status, and two letters from Ms. Church’s attorney Ernest Williams, III, regarding errors in a W. C. Handy marker on Beale Street.

15 5 Tennessee State Society, Washington, DC Folder contains several items pertaining to the history of the Tennessee State Society, as well as Ms. Church’s membership card, and an invitation to a dinner honoring Tennessee Governor and Mrs. Winfield Dunn.

16 4 Tri-State Bank Folder includes an article from the Tri-State Defender of December 1986 noting the 40th anniversary of the Tri-State Bank, as well as three bank statements—one each for Lincoln League, Elks Revolving Fund, and the Handy Scholarship Fund. All have 1967 entry dates.

17 8 Zion Cemetery—Christian Methodist Episcopal Church The folder contains important information on the history of Zion Cemetery, begun by a Memphis fraternal group and then eventually deeded to the General Board of Personnel Services of the CME Church. There is also information on the cemetery’s recognition by the Tennessee Historical Commission.

BOX IV

Roberta Church

1 12 Roberta Church—Awards and Recognition Over the years, Ms. Church was the recipient of numerous awards and was honored at programs recognizing the many contributions which she and her family made to this community, the state and the nation. These honors came from churches, history organizations, governmental agencies, women’s groups, educational institutions, and humanitarian organizations.

2 8 Roberta Church—Awards and Recognition (cont.) This folder includes awards ranging from 1987 – 1990, the last being recognition from her alma mater LeMoyne-Owen College. See listing on page 21 for awards in Map Case drawer 27.

3 38 Roberta Church—Biographical—Newspaper Articles Folder includes copies of 38 newspaper articles describing Roberta Church’s career in government, her political activities, and the recognition she received. The items are dated from 1952 through 1984.

4 2 Roberta Church—Biographical—Periodical Articles Folder includes a May 1959 article from Ebony “In the Steps of Her Father: Roberta Church Wins Respect of Politicians,” and an article on Blacks in Washington, which indicates that President Eisenhower was the first President to fully open the White House to African Americans.

5 1 Roberta Church—Biographical—Sketch (unpublished) The two-page biographical sketch dated April 1979 also includes copies of newspaper articles, programs, letters, awards and articles written by Ms. Church. A note in her handwriting says: “not submitted.”

6 3 Roberta Church—Black Writers’ Workshop Folder includes a note from Dr. Miriam DeCosta Willis regarding an article that Ms. Church is submitting on her aunt Mary Church Terrell for the book Homespun Images, an anthology by local Black writers. A brochure lists authors who will participate in a Memphis Black Writers’ Workshop in January 1989.

7 12 Roberta Church—LeMoyne-Owen College Ms. Church was among the most distinguished graduates of LeMoyne-Owen, and was a graduate of the class of 1931. Throughout her life she maintained a special interest in the school, which she and others in her family attended. In 1991 Ms. Church received a special diploma noting that she was a 60th year graduate. The folder includes programs, letters, and biographical information on other outstanding alumni. Of interest is the copy of a page listing Roberta Church as May Queen in 1931.

8 1 Roberta Church—NAACP Membership Certificate Ms. Church was a “cradle member” of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. In 1976 she became a life member.

9 4 Roberta Church—19th Century Memphis Families of Color The folder includes an eight-page handwritten draft of the book co- authored by Roberta Church and Ronald Walter, as well as a letter from Helen Coppock. Also included is the script for a radio review with the authors.

10 6 Roberta Church—Northwestern University Roberta Church received a B.A. in Liberal Arts from Northwestern University in 1935 and a M.A. in 1937. Included in this folder are commencement materials and later correspondence regarding alumni contributions.

11 11 Roberta Church—Obituary Articles Included in the folder are Ms. Church’s typed notes concerning her funeral wishes, copies of newspaper obituaries (she died July 1, 1995) and two copies of the funeral service held at Emmanuel Episcopal Church.

12 2 Roberta Church—Office of Vocational Rehabilitation In 1961 Ms. Church was named by the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation as a consultant on rehabilitation of the aging. The folder includes a government publication announcing her appointment.

13 5 Roberta Church—Photographs, Individual Folder includes five individual portraits of Ms. Church.

14 11 Roberta Church—Photographs—Government Officials Miss Church was photographed with numerous prominent individuals in government, including President Dwight D. Eisenhower and Secretary of Labor James P. Mitchell. BOX V

Roberta Church

1 2 Roberta Church—Photographs, Memphis Apartment Folder contains one page of small 3.5 x 4 color photographs (8) of a dinner party in Ms. Church’s apartment at 199 North Main Street, and one page of photos taken of the Mississippi River from the balcony of the apartment (8). Miss Church enjoyed entertaining.

2 9 Roberta Church—Photographs, Black History Program, 1975 The Library hosted a major program on Black History in 1975 at which Roberta Church was the featured speaker. The nine photos show Ms. Church with Library Director Lamar Wallis, Ron Walter and Ben Head, Library employees, as well as friends of Ms. Church. Hooks Brothers took the photos.

3 1 Roberta Church—Photographs, Kiwanis Club Award, 1987 One sheet of three photographs taken at the Peabody Hotel at the time Ms. Church received the Downtown Kiwanis Club Award as Outstanding Senior Citizen of Memphis.

4 2 Roberta Church—Photographs, Nineteenth Century Memphis Families of Color Folder includes two sheets each holding eight 3 x 5 photos that were used in the book by Roberta Church and Ronald Walter.

5 5 Roberta Church—Photographs, Republican Leaders Ms. Church received photos from prominent Republicans leaders with whom she worked or with whom she appeared on various programs. Included are photos of Senator Howard Baker, Sr., Senator Everett M. Dirksen, Senator I. M. Ives of New York, Clare Booth Luce, and Tennessee Congressman Carroll Reece.

6 2 Roberta Church—Photographs of Party for Library Staff in Honor of Roberta Church Ron Walter hosted party honoring Ms. Church following the Black History presentation at the Public Library on February 13, 1975.

7 10 Roberta Church—Programs, Various Folder includes various programs at which Ms. Church was the speaker or honoree—earliest is dated 1959 with several in 1990. One of the latter was the 1990 program at the Regional Medical Center honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

8 6 Roberta Church—Ration Books World War II Folder includes six books issued to Robert R. Church, Jr., Annette E. Church, and Roberta Church. Most of the stamps are intact.

9 14 Roberta Church—Republican Primary and Election, 1952 The folder includes various printed pieces and newspaper articles pertaining to the 1952 Republican Primary and the selection of Dwight D. Eisenhower as the Republican Presidential candidate. Also included is the copy of a talk given by Ms. Church, and the famous photograph of Church and Eisenhower made in Denver.

10 5 Roberta Church—Republican Women The folder includes two copies of the 33rd Annual Luncheon of the Women’s National Republican Club, a flyer from the Tennessee Republican Primary of August 7, 1952, on which Roberta Church was listed as a candidate for State Executive Committeewoman, and a program celebrating the 146th anniversary of Lincoln’s birth.

11 26 Roberta Church—Travels Ms. Church was a world traveler, and items in this folder contain trip descriptions, cruise ship passenger lists, and small photographs taken on various trips. Roberta Church made many trips with her lifetime friend Alma Booth.

12 3 Roberta Church—U.S. Department Labor, Minority Reports The file contains a 1960 Minority Groups Conference Report, a 1961 Occupational Questionnaire, and a 1955 reprint from Monthly Labor Report on EEO.

13 5 Roberta Church—U.S. Department of Labor Speeches 1953-58 The folder contains the texts of four speeches given by Ms. Church, one in 1953, two in 1955 with announcement of the program, and one in 1958. Church was an articulate writer and speaker.

14 2 Roberta Church—Women of Achievement, Nomination The folder contains two letters, one from Ms. Church’s attorney asking Dr. Jim Johnson to submit a letter supporting the nomination and the letter from Dr. Johnson to Ms. Nicki Elrod in support of the nomination.

15 4 Roberta Church—Women of Courage Four items pertain to recognizing African American Women of Courage, including Ms. Church, at special presentations and photographic exhibits in 1987.

BOX VI

Robert R. Church, Jr. and Sr.

1 18 Robert R. Church, Jr.—Biographical The folder contains a wide range of items on Robert Church. His daughter fought a life-time battle to correct erroneous and malicious information published about her father, as shown in correspondence in this folder. Of interest are Xerox copies of two school papers of the period when Robert Church and his sister Annette attended Mrs. Julia Hooks’ school at 426 Lauderdale.

2 3 Robert R. Church, Jr.—Business Letterheads The letterheads document the location of the Church business office, which was in Church Park Auditorium at 391 Beale Avenue, as the street was known in the early 20th century.

3 1 Robert R. Church, Jr.—Congressional Country Club The folder contains the invitation extended to Robert R Church, Jr., to join the Congressional Country Club along with descriptive material on the organization and its purpose.

4 6 Robert R. Church, Jr.—Correspondence Included in the folder is a copy of Church’s letter to James Weldon Johnson and copies of two letters Church received from Ida B. Wells-Barnett, president of the Negro Fellowship League. One was a letter of condolence on the death of Robert R. Church, Sr.

5 15 Robert R. Church, Jr.—NAACP This folder includes information on the founding of the Memphis Branch NAACP. A typed list of founding members, application for charter, an advertisement on a meeting at Church’s Park on May 18th, along with other material details the early history of the local branch of the National Assn. Advancement of Colored People.

6 3 Robert R. Church, Jr.—National Council PFEPC Robert R. Church was an active leader on the national level, as is shown in his position on the Permanent Fair Employment Practice Committee, which had offices in Washington and New York.

7 8 Robert R. Church, Jr.—Obituary Items The folder includes newspaper articles from around the country noting the death of Robert R. Church, Jr. on April 17, 1952 and recognizing him for outstanding political leadership, especially in the field of civil rights and social justice.

8 5 Robert R. Church, Jr.—Photographs, Political Five photographs depict Robert Church with Black political leaders, including A. Philip Randolph, Congressman Oscar DePriest, and John R. Lynch. Also shown, Matthew Thornnton, honorary Mayor of Beale Street.

9 12 Robert R. Church, Jr.—Republican Party, National Correspondence and newspaper articles delineate the significant role taken by Robert Church in the National Republican Party. He faithfully supported their candidates for national office.

10 11 Robert R. Church, Sr.—Biographical Most of the items in the folder are newspaper profiles of Church, Sr. Of interest is a copy of the Shelby County marriage license for R. R. Church and Anna S. Wright dated January 1, 1885.

11 3 Robert R. Church, Sr.—Correspondence from Ida B. Wells Folder includes copies of three letters which Ida B. Wells wrote to Church, Sr. One is on the Memphis Free Speech letterhead. Two are from Wells-Barnett after she had moved to Chicago.

12 24 Robert R. Church, Sr.—Memphis Business Hall of Fame Folder contains a large number of items that describe Church, Sr.’s success as a business entrepreneur and his induction into the Chamber of Commerce Hall of Fame. Church shared this honor with James K. Dobbs, Jacob Goldsmith, J. R. Hyde, Abe Plough, Clarence Saunders and Kemmons Wilson.

13 2 Robert R. Church, Sr.—Solvent Savings Bank Two pieces provide information on the often misunderstood history of the Solvent Savings Bank founded in 1906 by Church, Sr.

14 3 Robert R. Church, Sr. and Jr.—Business Profiles Folder includes a six-page statement by Roberta Church listing the properties owned by her grandfather, the Xerox copy of a $1,000 donation made by Church, Sr., for the Reunion of the United Confederate Veterans held in Memphis in 1901.

15 30 Robert R. Church, Sr. and Jr.—Church Collection, University of Memphis Folder includes extensive material pertaining to the donation of the papers of Robert R. Church Sr., and Jr., to the University of Memphis in the summer of 1976. A bronze plaque was unveiled on June 3, 1976. Also included are the letters of gift and descriptions of the material. A printed guide to the collection is included.

BOX VII

Church Family

1 8 Church, Annette E. Folder includes a copy of the 1900 census for the family of Robert R. Church, Sr., an interesting letter to Annette Church from W. C. Handy, and a letter to Annette from her brother Robert, Jr.

2 13 Church, Annette E.—Obituary Items Folder includes newspaper obituaries and photographs taken at the time of Annette Church’s funeral service March 24, 1975. The funeral service was at Emmanuel Episcopal Church and burial was in Elmwood Cemetery in the Church Family mausoleum.

3 1 Church, Roberta—Facts About Beale Street 1849-1870 Folder contains copy of a historical booklet compiled by Roberta Church: “Facts About Beale Street 1849-1870 and Occupations of Women 1855-1870, Memphis, Tennessee.”

4 9 Church, Roberta and Annette Church—The Robert R. Churches of Memphis (1974) The file contains correspondence relating to individuals who received or requested copies of the double biography of father and son.

5 14 Church, Roberta and Ronald A. Walter—Nineteenth Century Memphis Families of Color (1987) Correspondence is this file comes from well-known recipients of the book, which describes the Black elite of Memphis and from local bookstores where signings were held.

6 7 Church Family—Club Cards, Iroquois Dance Cards, Whist Club Folder contains cards of several social organizations to which the Church family belonged.

7 4 Church Family—Home, 384 Lauderdale Included in the folder are family socials cards, as well as copies of pictures of the Church Family home. Also included is an article which describes the planned burning of the home.

8 21 Church Family—Family Photographs There are some family photographs in this folder, including a photograph of Robert R. Church, Jr., and his wife Sara P. Johnson. 9 16 Church Family—Photographs of Friends Among the 16 photographs are several of the J. T. Settles family. Josiah T. Settles, an attorney, was also Roberta Church’s godfather. As a group, the photographs provide an interesting look at dress and styles of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

10 17 Terrell, Mary Church—Biographical Items Included in the folder are biographical items relating to the outstanding life and accomplishments of Mary Church Terrell, daughter of Robert R. Church, Sr., and his first wife. She was also the aunt of Roberta Church and the half-sister of Robert R. Church, Jr., and Annette E. Church. She received numerous awards and accolades for her work in behalf of desegregation, women’s rights, and education.

11 13 Terrell, Mary Church—Memorials Items in this folder include invitations and programs relating to schools or libraries dedicated to Mary Church Terrell. Two items pertain to her husband, Judge Robert H. Terrell, and one of the articles includes much about his wife Mary Church. Both Annette Church and Roberta Church were very close to their sister and aunt as they made their home in Washington, D.C., for many years.

BOX VIII

Church Park

Note: When established by Robert R. Church, Sr., in 1899, the Park name was Church’s Park and Auditorium, and that is documented in the History Folder. Church Park has been used for all other folder headings, as that is the modern name of the Park.

1 10 Church’s Park and Auditorium The folder contains extensive historic notes written by Annette E. Church, whose father Robert R. Church, Sr., established the Park, and by Roberta Church, his granddaughter. A 1901 publication titled North and South includes an interesting ad for “Church’s Park and Auditorium,” noting nightly performances. Also of historic importance is an article from the Memphis World of November 22, 1940 reporting that the name of Church Park Auditorium had been changed to Beal Avenue Park and Auditorium by edict of the City. 2 9 Church Park—Correspondence, Memphis Park Commission In the folder are letters to and from Roberta Church, which pertain to the proposed development (restoration) of Church Park. One is from Mayor Henry Loeb.

3 11 Church Park—Correspondence, National Register of Historic Places Items in this folder pertain to efforts to have Church Park placed on the National Register of Historic Places and contain significant history on the Park. These ongoing efforts were unsuccessful because there was nothing remaining of the original park except for the land.

4 33 Church Park—Correspondence, Restoration and Preservation The folder contains correspondence dating from 1967. Beginning in 1967, efforts were initiated to preserve and restore Church Park. Much of the correspondence dates from the 1980s during the administration of Mayor Dick Hackett when serious efforts were undertaken to develop Church Park. Many public-spirited citizens lent their support to this undertaking.

5 26 Church Park—Correspondence, Restoration and Preservation Folder five contains correspondence largely from 1985 when the political controversy over redevelopment of Church Park was at its height.

6 8 Church Park—Dedication, November 4, 1987 Folder contains items on the restoration of Church Park and its dedication in November 1987. It required a great deal of civic and political effort to salvage the park that had become a bulldozed wasteland in 1973.

7 2 Church Park—Martin Luther King Celebration The folder contains the text of remarks which Roberta Church made at the January 15, 1990, celebration of Dr. King’s birthday at Church Park—also one photograph on this occasion.

8 5 Church Park—Master Plan for Redevelopment, Ritchie Smith, Landscape Architect The folder contains the first master plan developed in 1985 by the Smith firm for Church Park. The original plan was modified and the project completed in 1986.

9 30 Church Park—Newspaper Clippings Most items in this folder are newspaper clippings that date from 1985 when there was much political wrangling over the design and cost of redeveloping Church Park. Ms. Church, ever the diplomat, suggested the appointment of a three-man committee to resolve the issues, and the park was completed in 1986-87.

10 12 Church Park—Robert R. Church, Sr., Memorial Statue Correspondence is this folder pertains to the legal and artistic steps taken by Ms. Church to have a bronze statue of her grandfather placed in Church Park in honor of his many contributions to the city of Memphis. All costs relating to the creation and installation of the memorial were borne by Ms. Church.

BOX IX

Periodicals

1 1 Catalog, -Exhibition of Ten Artists, 1967 The catalog details an exhibition of ten African-American artists in conjunction with the University’s centennial celebration.

2 1 Periodical—The Afro-American Voter, March-April 1969 Page 15 includes a column of George W. Lee, Republican leader of Memphis, Tennessee, as well as an article on “The Heritage of Civil Rights Under Dwight D. Eisenhower.”

3 1 Periodical—The Delineator, July 1896 This interesting piece is a Butterick fashion catalog that includes patterns for women’s garments, hats, and accessories.

4 1 Periodical—The Downtowner—January 1992, February 1995 Both issues of the Downtowner include articles on Beale Street. The 1995 edition features an interview with Roberta Church and a 1958 photo of Ms. Church in front of the Church Park Community Center, which was the original Church Park Auditorium.

5 1 Periodical—Ebony, May 1959 This periodical has one of the earliest feature articles on Roberta Church and her career in the Washington political world. Also includes good photographs in private and social settings.

6 3 Periodicals—Elmwood Journal—Spring 1988, Fall 1988, and Spring 1989 The Elmwood Cemetery journals include items relating to Roberta Church. She was named a member of the Elmwood Advisory Committee in 1988.

7 1 Periodical—JET—May 15, 1969 and April 30, 1981 The l969 JET describes the Nixon White House tribute to on his 70th birthday. The 1981 issue is a memorial tribute to boxer Joe Louis.

8 1 Periodical—Washington Urban League, Spring 1994 The magazine from the 22nd Annual Whitney M. Young, Jr., Memorial Dinner features 29 excellent biographical profiles of outstanding African Americans, including Mary Church Terrell, the aunt of Roberta Church. Mrs. Terrell (1863-1954) had an extraordinary career in civic activism and civil rights.

9 1 Periodical—Negro History Bulletin, May-June 1980 This issue includes information on selected Black Mayors of large cities.

10 1 Periodical—Prosperity Magazine, June 1900 The Volume 1, Number 1 issue contains numerous portraits and biographies of distinguished Americans, including business leaders and elected officials such as Theodore Roosevelt, Governor of New York, and Henry Cabot Lodge, U.S. Senator, Massachusetts.

11 1 Periodical—Sugar: A Magazine of the Beautiful People, February-March 1982 The cover of the locally published magazine features a photograph of Roberta Church and Dr. W. H. Brewster. The feature article on Dr. Brewster includes information on the Church family.

12 1 Periodical—The Washington Post, January 12, 1969 An article in the Sunday Washington Post pertains to civil rights and names Robert R. Church, Jr., “self-appointed lobbyist for civil rights.”

BOX X

Newspaper and Magazine Articles

Box 10 contains a large number of newspaper and magazine articles, which Ms. Church clipped over the years. They appeared in various national publications and newspapers over a long span of time and reflect her wide reading and broad interests.

Original articles were copied onto acid free paper and organized by categories. They cover general articles on Black history and civil rights, local articles on Memphis history and civil rights, including clippings on the Solvent Savings Bank and First Baptist Church Beale Street. In addition, there are articles about the life and political activism of Robert R. Church, Jr., and those detailing the career of Roberta Church. A small number of articles are items that were of personal interest to Ms. Church.

1 32 Black History and Civil Rights Many of these items pertain to the leadership crisis at the national level of the NAACP during the late 1970s.

2 39 Black History and Civil Rights—continued Of special interest in this folder are a number of articles on A. Philip Randolph, powerful political leader and friend of Robert R. Church, Jr., and on and Adam Clayton Powell.

3 28 Church, Robert R. Jr.—Obituary/Biographical The death of Robert R. Church, Jr., on April 17, 1952, was widely reported in the national press with accompanying editorials recognizing his long years of service to civil rights and loyalty to the Republican Party. Many of the articles, especially those appearing in African American newspapers, provide extensive biographical information.

4 16 Church, Robert R. Jr.—Political and Civil Rights Articles Included in this folder are articles, which focus on Robert R. “Bob” Church’s major role in civil rights. Long before Dr. King became a prominent leader, Church and others were working for the rights of African Americans.

5 44 Church, Roberta—Career/Biography Folders five and six contain a wide range of articles which detail Roberta Church’s career in government service and her life-time dedication to preserving both her family’s history, as well as their history in Memphis and beyond. She was, like her father, a faithful member of the Republican Party and was active in the women’s division of the national organization.

6 30 Church, Roberta—Career/Biography The folder contents are as described above. The articles also provide information on the growing role of women in politics and government.

7 35 Church Family History Articles in folders seven and eight pertain to the Church family, their history and leadership in the community, and their work in behalf of social justice. 8 34 Church Family History Contents of folder eight as described above.

9 15 First Baptist Church Beale Street This folder contains articles, which detail the history of this Beale Street landmark. Although not members of First Baptist, the Church family was involved with the church and its preservation. Like many other churches, First Baptist Beale fell on hard times during the depression. On several occasions, the Church family provided significant financial aid. When the First Baptist celebrated its 118th anniversary in July 1981, Roberta Church was the honored guest, as the church paid tribute to her family for their friendship and support throughout its history.

10 23 Personal Interest Articles Included in folder ten are articles of interest to Ms. Church, including items on President Eisenhower, Governor Nelson Rockefeller, and Pearl Bailey, among others. Also included are articles on Satchel Paige and .

11 6 Solvent Savings Bank of Memphis The articles in this folder were copied by Miss Church and detail the history of the Solvent Savings Bank, which was founded by Robert R. Church. The bank’s history is also covered in the book The Robert R. Churches of Memphis.

Map Drawer LARGE FOLDERS AND MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS Case 27 Awards 1 12 Folder 1 contains awards and certificates of recognition presented to Roberta Church for her interest in preserving this community’s history. Certificates include: 1956—Certificate of Merit from Alpha Phi Alpha, government service. 1972—Great Navy Commission, State of Nebraska. 1975—Certificate of Appreciation—National Advisory Council on Adult Education. 1978—Certificate of Appreciation—California Department of Rehabilitation. 1980—Certificate of Appreciation—Governor Lamar Alexander to Roberta Church for service to the State of Tennessee. 1980—Certificate of Appreciation to Roberta Church for dedication to the citizens of Shelby County.

1980—Proclamation by Congressman Harold Ford honoring Roberta Church for service to Black History. 1980—Proclamation by Shelby County Mayor William N. Morris honoring the Church Family. 1981—Shelby County Board of Commissioners naming Roberta Church an Honorary Shelby County Commissioner for service to the citizens of Shelby County. 1982—Proclamation by Congressman Harold Ford recognizing Roberta Church for humanitarian service to the community 1982—Cotton Makers’ Jubilee Award to Roberta Church for support and devotion to the Jubilee and to the City of Memphis. 1986—Shelby County Mayor William N. Morris recognizing outstanding African American families of Memphis.

Diplomas 2 5 Folder 2 includes diplomas awarded to Church Family members. 1903—Washington High School, diploma to Sara Parodi Johnson, mother of Sara Roberta Church. 1905—Washington Normal School (Junior College), diploma to Sara P. Johnson. 1906—Oberlin Academy, certificate to Annette Elaine Church. 1950s—Two certificates to Annette E. Church from school of landscaping and design.

Newspaper Pages 3 5 Folder 3 includes three large newspaper pages. ND, [1952] full page newspaper ad endorsing Roberta Church for the Republican State Committee. Aug. 27, 1953, large article with photograph announcing the appointment of Roberta Church as Minority Groups Consultant in the Department of Health, Education and Welfare. July 3, 1976, Tri-State Defender full page with photos, NAACP Soul ’76. Shown are Benjamin Hooks, Harold Ford, Maceo Walker, and Roy Wilkins. 1940s large photograph of attendees at dinner honoring W. C. Handy, including Robert R. Church, Jr., W. C. Handy and Mrs. Handy, and Congressman Adam Clayton Powell. Undated watercolor of proposed W. C Handy monument for Handy Park in Memphis.

Newspaper Pages 4 6 Folder 4 includes five full-page newspaper stories on Robert R. Church, Sr., Robert R. Church, Jr., and Mary Church Terrell along with copy of an article from the Memphis Planters Journal. Oct. 1981—Memphis Evening Scimitar, special edition includes large article on Robert R. Church, Sr., his life and his home Dec. 1913— Commercial Appeal Southern Prosperity Edition, with extensive coverage on “Marvelous Career of R. R. Church and also that of Thomas H. Hayes, Undertaker and Funeral Home owner. Nov. 1916—Western World Reporter, Memphis, Tennessee, includes lengthy article on the Lincoln League. Apr. 1952—California Eagle, includes Roy Wilkins column on the death of Robert R. Church, Jr. Feb. 1983—Washington Post, feature story “Black Women in Washington,” with profile of Mary Church Terrell. Sep. 1908—Planters Journal, Memphis, Tennessee, feature article on Robert R. Church, Sr.,“The Most Representative, Wealthiest and Popular Man of His Race in the South.”

Documents 5 1 Large document: Presidential Appointment to the National Advisory Council on Adult Education—signed by

Miscellaneous Items 6 2 Two packets of political campaign buttons, I Like Ike, Elect Nixon, Vote for Rockefeller, Poor Peoples’ March on Washington, and others of political nature.