Bureau of Public Inquiries Jacksonville, Florida Inter-office memorandum [Office of Government Reports] To: Chief, BPI Date: 10/9/42 From: Florida Office Subject: Availability of Rumor Collectors Frankly, this office has not been able to do much on rumors under the plan outlined in your instruction of October 1st. It is almost impossible to induce busy people to stop their work to write down the exact wording of a report they may have heard, and certainly the average beautician, barber, policeman, etc., cannot appreciate the fine distinctions of rumor analysis by attempting to give the exact wording if it is heard repetitiously. This work is extremely interesting and in this office has been handled through previously established contacts, one of whom is a city salesman who visits between 300 and 400 retail food stores each week, and the heads of war agencies who travel the state quite frequently and who have been requested to make a mental note and to repeat to this office any rumor which they hear at any time, whether in Jacksonville or out of their offices, certain school children and similar sources. Even in these cases it is possible to get only the essentials of the rumor. People naturally are anxious to cooperate, but they fail to appreciate the seriousness of this matter, and under conditions of operation after November first, I make the following suggestions: The public is acutely conscious of rumors and the so-called rumor clinics, as the result of the recent Readers Digest discussion and the very splendid presentation in Life magazine this week. In Florida the Business and Professional Women's Club had started to make this a project in this state, but had been delayed by the attitude of the Florida Defense Council Information Education and Morale Chairman, which I reported in detail and certainly none too vigorously earlier this week. Since field intelligence apparently will be unavailable shortly, it seems to me that thorough coverage could be obtained if either the Florida Defense Council or the Business and Professional Women's organization would proceed with plans for a statewide rumor clinic, clearing through Bill Bennett of the Florida OWI News Bureau. He is intensely interested in this matter and can develop a most valuable statewide influence in discounting rumors if some machinery is set up to gather them. He is extremely skillful in such matters and could develop a weekly feature story which nearly all daily newspapers would grasp anxiously. This would have the effect of making it possible for the public as a whole to relay their rumors quickly and painlessly by telephone, whereas it is my observation that 98% of people heartily dislike writing a letter, Chief, BPI 10/9/42 Page 2 and that they are not capable of placing on paper the details which any ordinary intelligent person could extract if it were conveyed by telephone and opportunity given to dig beneath the surface, both as to completeness of the rumor and the source from which it appeared. If the Florida Defense Council had proven its ability to participate in such a program, I would urge strongly that the Division of Information, Education and Morale be requested to make this a first priority project, clearing through Mr. Bennett, OWI New Office. However, I doubt seriously that Mr. Kilgore has the ability, perseverance, ingenuity or vision to head up such a movement, and feel strongly that in such circumstances that Mr. Bennett be requested to urge [them] B&PW to get into action at the earliest possible moment. Chief, BPI 10/9/42 Florida Office Availability of Rumor Collectors Frankly, this office has not been able to do much on rumors under the plan outlined in your instruction of October 1st. It is almost impossible to induce busy people to stop their work to write down the exact working of a report they may have heard, and certainly the average beautician, barber, policeman, etc., cannot appreciate the fine distinctions of rumor analysis by attempting to give the exact wording if it is heard repetitiously. This work is extremely interesting and in this office has been handled through previously established contacts, one of whom is a city salesman who visits between 300 and 400 retail food stores each week, [and] the heads of war agencies who travel the state quite frequently and who have been requested to make a mental note and to repeat to this office any rumor which they hear at any time, whether in Jacksonville or out of their offices, certain school children and similar sources. Even in these cases it is possible to get only the essentials of the rumor. People naturally are anxious to cooperate, but they fail to appreciate the seriousness of this matter, and under conditional of operation after November first, I make the following suggestions: The public is acutely conscious of rumors and the so-called rumor clinics, as the result of the recent Readers Digest discussion and the very splendid presentation in Life magazine this week. In Florida the Business and Professional Women's Club had started to make this a project in this state, but had been delayed by the attitude of the Florida Defense Council Information, Education and Morale Chairman, which I reported in detail and certainly none too vigorously earlier this week. Since field intelligence apparently will be unavailable shortly, it seems to me that thorough coverage could be obtained if either the Florida Defense Council or the Business and Professional Women's organization would proceed with plans for a statewide rumor clinic, clearing through Bill Bennett of the Florida OWI News Bureau. He is intensely interested in this matter and can develop a most valuable statewide influence in discounting rumors if some machinery is set up to gather them. He is extremely skillful in such matters and could develop a weekly feature story which nearly all daily newspapers would grasp anxiously. This would have the effect of making it possible for the public as a whole to relay their rumors quickly and painlessly by telephone, whereas it is my observation that 98% of people heartily dislike writing a letter, Chief, BPI 10/9/42 Page 2 and that they are not capable of placing on paper the details which any ordinary intelligent person could extract if it were conveyed by telephone and opportunity given to dig beneath the surface, both as to completeness of the rumor and the source from which it appeared. If the Florida Defense Council had proven its ability to participate in such a program, I would urge strongly that the Division of Information, Education and Morale be requested to make this a first priority project, clearing through Mr. Bennet, OWI News Office. However, I doubt seriously that Mr. Kilgore has the ability, perseverance, ingenuity or vision to head up such a movement, and feel strongly that in such circumstances that Mr. Bennett be requested to urge [them] B+PW to get into action at the earliest possible moment. OFFICE OF WAR INFORMATION WASHINGTON Rm. 873, 1355 Market Street, San Francisco, California. October 15, 1942. Personal and confidential Mr. William H. Webber, Office of War Information, 1400 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, D. C. Dear Mr. Webber: This is in reply to your mimeographed "Personal and Confidential" memorandum of October 3, 1942 –– Subject: "Availability of Rumor Collectors for Future Studies." Dentist: Mr. George M. Peters, 1095 Market Street, San Francisco. Mr. Peters was quite anxious to assist and I am sure would gladly cooperate in the future. He heard so few in his dental office that he made a special effort to "hear more" when he was at the YMCA and at his home. He is a young man and has a practice that is too big for him to handle. Drug Store owner: Mr. Edwin H. Nohrden, 400 University Street, Palo Alto, California, Mr. Norden was quite anxious to cooperate. He is middle aged, steady and of a serious type. He made a real effort to "record" rumors during the period requested, but heard none. He would undoubtedly cooperate whenever you call upon him. Policeman: Mr. P. A. Andersen, 766 Sutter Street, San Francisco. Quite willing to assist but not sure how much value he will be generally. However, he would be worth keeping in contact with. Labor Official: Charles Raudebaugh. Will be in the Army by the time this reaches you. One of the finest sources of information this office has had. It is unfortunate that he will no longer be available. Chamber of Commerce: Mr. Carroll Snyker, Chamber of Commerce, 333 Pine Street, San Francisco. Good man –– willing to cooperate and should be of value in the future. FOR VICTORY BUY UNITED STATES WAR BONDS AND STAMPS Mr. William H. Webber – P2 Beauty Parlor Operator: The Beauty Parlor operator used as a source in Palo Alto, California, proved to be a complete failure. The only comment we have to offer concerning use of the above people in forthcoming reports is that they should not be used too often. It is very easy to over-do a good thing. I am sure that they will cooperate in any manner you wish, if not called upon too often. Concerning rumor reports or any other reports in the future, it might be well to have the various report writers supply a list of their best contacts to your office which could be used in the same manner as the ones given in this letter. A personal description in detail of each person on such a list should be of aid to your office. Respectfully submitted, J. Crawford Brooks J. Crawford Brooks, Administrative Assistant. Rm.873, 1355 Market Street, San Francisco, California. October 15, 1942. Personal and confidential Mr. William H. Webber, Office of War Information, 1400 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, D. C. Dear Mr. Webber: This is in reply to your mimeographed "Personal and Confidential" memorandum of October 3, 1942 -- Subject: "Availability of Rumor Collectors for Future Studies." Dentist: Mr. George M. Peters, 1905 Market Street, San Francisco. Mr. Peters was quite anxious to assist and I am sure would gladly cooperate in the future. He heard so few in his dental office that he made a special effort to "hear more" when he was at the YMCA and at his home. He is a young man and has a practice that is too big for him to handle. Drug Store owner: Mr. Edwin H. Nohriden, 400 University Street, Palo Alto, California. Mr. Norden was quite anxious to cooperate. He is middle aged, steady and of a serious type. He made a real effort to "record" rumors during the period requested, but heard none. He would undoubtedly cooperate whenever you call upon him. Policeman: Mr. P. A. Andersen, 766 Sutter Street, San Francisco. Quite willing to assist but not sure how much value he will be generally. However, he would be worth keeping in contact with. Labor Official: Charles Raudebaugh. Will be in the Army by the time this reaches you. One of the finest sources of information this office has had. It is unfortunate that he will no longer be available. Chamber of Commerce: Mr. Carrol Snyker, Chamber of Commerce, 333 Pine Street, San Francisco. Good man -- willing to cooperate and should be of value in the future. Mr. William H. Webber - P2 Beauty Parlor Operator: The Beauty Parlor operator used as a source in Palo Alto, California, proved to be a complete failure. The only comment we have to offer concerning use of the above people in forthcoming reports is that they should not be used too often. It is very easy to over-do a good thing. I am sure that they will cooperate in any manny you wish, if not called upon too often. Concerning rumor reports or any other reports in the future, it might be well to have the various report writers supply a list of their best contacts to your office which could be used in the same manner as the ones given in this letter. A personal description in detail of each person on such a list should be of aid to your office. Respectfully submitted, J. Crawford Brooks, Administrative Assistant. Rm.873, 1355 Market Street, San Francisco, California. October 15, 1942. Personal and confidential Mr. William H. Webber, Office of War Information, 1400 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, D. C. Dear Mr. Webber: This is in reply to your mimeographed "Personal and Confidential" memorandum of October 3, 1942 -- Subject: "Availability of Rumor Collectors for Future Studies." Dentist: Mr. George M. Peters, 1095 Market Street, San Francisco. Mr. Peters was quite anxious to assist and I am sure would gladly cooperate in the future. He heard so few in his dental office that he made a special effort to "hear more" when he was at the YMCA and at his home. He is a young man and has a practice that is too big for him to handle. Drug Store owner: Mr. Edwin H. Nohrden, 400 University Street, Palo Alto, California. Mr. Norden was quite anxious to cooperate. He is middle aged, steady and of a serious type. He made a real effort to "record" rumors during the period requested, but heard none. He would undoubtedly cooperate whenever you call upon him. Policeman: Mr. P. A. Anderson, 766 Sutter Street, San Francisco. Quite willing to assist but not sure how much value he will be generally. However, he would be worth keeping in contact with. Labor Official: Charles R[a]udebaugh. Will be in the Army by the time this reaches you. One of the finest sources of information this office has had. It is unfortunate that he will no longer be available. Chamber of Commerce: Mr. Carroll Snyker, Chamber of Commerce, 333 Pine Street, San Francisco. Good man -- willing to cooperate and should be of value in the future. Mr. William Webber - P2 Beauty Parlor Operator: The Beauty Parlor operator used as a source in Palo Alto, California, proved to be a complete failure. The only comment we have to offer concerning use of the above people in forthcoming reports is that they should not be used too often. It is very easy to over-do a good thing. I am sure that they will cooperate in any manner you wish, if not called upon too often. Concerning rumor reports or any other reports in the future, it might be well to have the various report writers supply a list of their best contacts to your office which could be used in the same manner as the ones given in this letter. A personal description in detail of each person on such a list should be of aid to your office. Respectfully submitted, J. Crawford Brooks, Administrative Assistant. INTER-OFFICE MEMORANDUM OFFICE OF WAR INFORMATION [OFFICE OF GOVERNMENT REPORTS] TO: William H. Webber Office of War Information, Washington DATE: 10/12/42 FROM: Allan Markley, Field Representative, Boston SUBJECT: Rumor collectors - your letter 10/3 PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL The following information is submitted in connection with your letter of October 3 on the subject of availability of rumor collectors for future studies. You, of course, appreciate that we had only Sunday to set up the listening post for rumor reports for the week of October 4 to 9, previously submitted to you. The following are the names and addresses and comment regarding the six people who cooperated in this one-week's collection. Sergt. Daniel Donahue, 86 Baldwin Street, Charlestown, Massachusetts. The Sergeant, as you know, is connected with the Boston Police Department and is stationed in East Boston, in territory adjacent to the waterfront, which may be termed to be one of the "tough" spots of New England. It has often been said that East Boston is not the place where gangsters' manoeuvres are carried out, but it is the place where a good many of them are concocted. Sergeant Donahue lives adjacent to the Charlestown Navy Yard and I believe is quite capable to undertake the work that you want. He has brothers and other relatives serving in the armed forces and is quite anxious to cooperate in any way he can. Probably the second-best of the contacts made for the purpose of the rumor report was that of Dorothy Kenneally, 1418 Centre Street, Roslindale, Mass. She is the proprietor of a small beauty parlor which happens to enjoy a trade of both the aristocrats and the ordinary people. She had one brother who was killed in the last world war, and has another who is an inmate of the Bedford Veterans' Hospital as a result of overseas service in 1917-18. She is very anxious to do anything possible. The third party on the list is Dr. Charles M. Lee, 1668 Beacon Street, Brookline, Mass. Brookline as you know is a rather high-class town within the city. Dr. Lee's dentist office is located where he gets some patients from the elderly, gossipy women of Beacon Street, as well as the general run. Dr. Lee himself is a man about sixty but very consciencious on the war effort and very anxious to be helpful. The fourth is that of William R. Dacey, proprietor of Dacey's Drugstore at Wellesley Hills, Mass. Frankly, Mr. Dacey was not very productive during the week of collecting rumors. His place was selected not only because it William H. Webber - OWI - Washington -2- October 12, 1942 Subject: Rumor collectors was a typical community drugstore but because it was the agency and waiting station for the Boston and Worcester bus system. The fifth person serving was John Paul, Secretary of the Framingham Chamber of Commerce, and his address should be used in mailings to the office of the Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Paul is very much interested in public reactions and in community effort sustaining the war program. He is very active and very cooperative. The sixth person to report was John Shaughnessey, 79 Central Avenue, Hudson, Mass. He is a worker in a war production plan and prominently connected with fraternal organizations in Hudson. He has a son who has just entered Army service. Although Shaughnessey is not a man likely to write at length on any subject, he does hear, and I believe will report, pertinent developments among the workers and what they are talking about. When I discussed with each of these people the possibility that they would be asked to continue reporting of rumors direct to Washington, they all expressed themselves as being glad to do so. I do believe, however, that they should be given some letters of instruction which will make it fully clear what type of work is required, what sort of material the Intelligence Branch is interested in, and that you should send to them special self- addressed envelopes for their use. I do not believe specific-week reports are desirable on the whole. Rather, I believe you would get better results by asking them to be constantly on the lookout, and furnishing them envelopes for their use. You will doubtless get considerable quantity of material which is of little value. On the other hand, you will get some general trend which should be very helpful in keeping the central office in Washington informed of what people are thinking and talking about in the eastern Massachusetts area. OFFICE OF WAR INSPECTION William H. Webber Office of War Information, Washington Allan Markley, Field Representative, Boston 10/12/42 Rumor collectors - your letter 10/3 PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL The following information is submitted in connection with your letter of October 3 on the subject of availability of rumor collectors for future studies. You, of course, appreciate that we had only Sunday to set up the listening post for rumor reports for the week of October 4 to 9, previously submitted to you. The following are the names and addresses and comment regarding the six people who cooperated in this one-week's collection. Sergt. Daniel Donahue, 86 Baldwin Street, Charlestown, Massachusetts. The sergeant, as you know, is connected with the Boston Police Department and is stationed in East Boston, in territory adjacent to the waterfront, which may be termed to be one of those "tough" spots of New England. It has often been said that East Boston is not the place where gangsters' manoeuvres are carried out, but it is the place where a good many of them are concocted. Sergeant Donahue lives adjacent to the Charlestown Navy Yard and I believe is quite capable to undertake the work that you want. He has brothers and other relatives serving in the armed forces and is quite anxious to cooperate in any way he can. Probably the second-best of the contacts made for the purpose of the rumor report was that of Dorothy Kenneally, 1418 Centre Street, Roslindale, Mass. She is the proprietor of a small beauty parlor which happens to enjoy a trade of both the aristocrats and the ordinary people. She had one brother who was killed in the last world war, and has another who is an inmate of the Bedford Veterans' Hospital as a result of overseas service on 1917-1918. She is very anxious to do anything possible. The third party on the list is Dr. Charles M. Lee, 1668 Beacon Street, Brookline, Mass. Brookline as you know is a rather high-class town within the city. Dr. Lee's dentist office is located where he gets some patients from the elderly, gossipy women of Beacon Street, as well as the general run. Dr. Lee himself is a man about sixty but very conscientious on the war effort and very anxious to be helpful. The fourth is that of William R. Dacey, proprietor of Dacey's Drugstore at Wellesley Hills, Mass. Frankly, Mr. Dacey was not very productive during the week of collecting rumors. His place was selected not only because it William H. Webber - OWI - Washington -2- October 12, 1942 Subject: Rumor collectors was a typical community drugstore but because it was the agency and waiting station for the Boston and Worcester bus system. The fifth person serving was John Paul, Secretary of the Framingham Chamber of Commerce, and his address should be used in mailings to the office of the Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Paul is very much interested in public reactions and in community effort sustaining the war program. He is very active and very cooperative. The sixth person to report was John Shaughnessey, 79 Central Avenue, Hudson, Mass. He is a worker in a war production plant and prominently connected with fraternal organizations in Hudson. He has a son who has just entered the Army service. Although Shaughnessey is not a man likely to write at length on any subject, he does hear, and I believe will report, pertinent developments among the workers and what they are talking about. When I discussed with each of these people the possibility that they would be asked to continue reporting of rumors direct to Washington, they all expressed themselves as being glad to do do. I do believe, however, they they should be given some letters of instruction which will make it fully clear what type of work is required, what sort of material the Intelligence Branch is interested in, and that you should send to them special self-addressed envelopes for their use. I do not believe specific-week reports are desirable on the whole. Rather, I believe you would get better results by asking them to be constantly on the lookout and furnishing them envelopes for their use. You will doubtless get considerable quantity of material which is of little value. On the other hand, you will get some general trend which should be very helpful in keeping the central office in Washington informed of what people are thinking and talking about in the eastern Massachusetts areas. OFFICE OF WAR INFORMATION William H. Webber Office of War Information, Washington Allan Markley, Field Representative, Boston 10/12/42 Rumor collectors - your letter 10/3 PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL The following information is submitted in connection with your letter of October 3 on the subject of availability of rumor collectors for future studies. You, of course, appreciate that we had only Sunday to set up the listening post for rumor reports for the week of October 4 to 9, previously submitted to you. The following are the names and addresses and comment regarding the six people who cooperated in this one-week's collection. Sergt. Daniel Donahue, 86 Baldwin Street, Charlestown, Massachusetts. The Sergeant, as you know, is connected with the Boston Police Department and is stationed in East Boston, in territory adjacent to the waterfront, which may be termed to be one of the "tough" spots of New England. It has often been said that East Boston is not the place where gangsters' manoeuvres are carried out, but it is the place where a good many of them are concocted. Sergeant Donahue lives adjacent to the Charlestown Navy Yard and I believe is quite capable to undertake the work that you want. He has brothers and other relatives serving in the armed forces and is quite anxious to cooperate in any way he can. Probably the second-best of the contacts made for the purpose of the rumor report was that of Dorothy Kenneally, 1413 Centre Street, Roslindale, Mass. She is the proprietor of a small beauty parlor which happens to enjoy a trade of both the aristocrats and the ordinary people. She had one brother who was killed in the last world war, and has another who is an inmate of the Bedford Veterans' Hospital as a result of overseas service in 1917-18. She is very anxious to do anything possible. The third party on the list is Dr. Charles M. Lee, 1668 Beacon Street, Brookline, Mass. Brookline as you know is a rather high-class town within the city. Dr. Lee's dentist office is located where he gets some patients from the elderly, gossipy women of Beacon Street, as well as the general run. Dr. Lee himself is a man about sixty but very consciencious on the war effort and very anxious to be helpful. The fourth is that of William R. Dacey, proprietor of Dacey's Drugstore at Wellesley Hills, Mass. Frankly, Mr. Dacey was not very productive during the week of collecting rumors. His place was selected not only because it William H. Webber - OWI - Washington -2- October 12, 1942 Subject: Rumor collectors was a typical community drugstore but because it was the agency and waiting station for the Boston and Worcester bus system. The fifth person serving was John Paul, Secretary of the Framingham Chamber of Commerce, and his address should be used in mailings to the office of the Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Paul is very much interested in public reactions and in community effort sustaining the war program. He is very active and very cooperative. The sixth person to report was John Shaughnessey, 79 Central Avenue, Hudson, Mass. He is a worker in a war production plan and prominently connected with fraternal organizations in Hudson. He has a son who has just entered Army service. Although Shaughnessey is not a man likely to write at length on any subject, he does hear, and I believe will report, pertinent developments among the workers and what they are talking about. When I discussed with each of these people the possibility that they would be asked to continue reporting of rumors direct to Washington, they all expressed themselves as being glad to do so. I do believe, however, that they should be given some letters of instruction which will make it fully clear what type of work is required, what sort of material the Intelligence Branch is interested in, and that you should send to them special self- addressed envelopes for their use. I do not believe specific-week reports are desirable on the whole. Rather, I believe you would get better results by asking them to be constantly on the lookout, and furnishing them envelopes for their use. You will doubtless get considerable quantity of material which is of little value. On the other hand, you will get some general trend which should be very helpful in keeping the central office in Washington informed of what people are thinking and talking about in the eastern Massachusetts area. OFFICE OF WAR INFORMATION [WASHINGTON] 464 Federal Building Detroit, Michigan October 14, 1942 Mr. William H. Webber Office of War Information 1400 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W. Washington, D. C. Dear Mr. Webber: Referring to your letter of October 3 on the person co-operating in the recent rumor collection, we had the assistance of the following: Dentists: Dr. Robert S. Gregory, 22010 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, Mich. Dr. D. Ballinger, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, Mich. Drug Store: Mrs. Thomas Cogan, proprietor, Oakwood Pharmacy, 301 Oakwood Blvd., Detroit, Mich. Policemen: Police Commissioner John H. Witherspoon, Detroit, Mich. Chamber of Commerce: Harvey Campbell, executive vice-president, Detroit Board of Commerce, Lafayette Blvd., Detroit, Mich. Labor: Frank Davis, president, Lincoln Local No. 900, UAW-CIO, 7335 Livernois Avenue, employed at Lincoln Motor Company Beauty Parlor: Charles of the Ritz (manager, Comer Syprett), Himelhoch Bros., Woodward Avenue, Detroit, Mich. Bert M. Grim, 308 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit, Mich. In no case was there any objection to continued cooperation, but because of the unfruitful collection by drug store and Board of Commerce it may be well to experiment with a drugstore in another area and a Board of Commerce perhaps located in some other city. This kind of job requires careful handling. The job also will necessitate sitting down and explaining the difference between opinion and rumor, for despite the fact that as much interpretative material in your instructions as could be passed along was given to those participating, results show inability to differentiate between rumor and opinion. [*FOR VICTORY BUY UNITED STATES WAR BONDS AND STAMPS*] Mr. William H. Webber -2- October 14, 1942 Very possibly a dozen sample reports strictly in the category rumor should be prepared for distribution to participants. Persons seeing the picture most clearly were Comer Syprett and Bert M. Grim, beauty parlor operators. The job done by the police, to whith the Police Commissioner assigned five patrolmen, was poorly done because of the confusion in the men's minds as to what constituted a rumor and what an opinion. As you may say, we had very little time to work on this. We acknowledge, too, that some of the sources from which we expected a great deal yielded very little. In future rumor operations we possibly should try other locations. The original notes handed in by participants are being sent under separate cover. Sincerely yours [*W C. Richards*] W. C. Richards Senior Field Representative OFFICE OF WAR INFORMATION WASHINGTON 513 Federal Courts Bldg. St. Paul, Minnesota October 13, 1942 To: William H. Webber From: Field Representative for Minnesota Subject: Availability of Rumor Collectors for Future Studies - 10/3/42 The names and addresses of the persons who cooperated with this office in the rumor collection undertaken during the week October 5 through October 9 are as follows: Dentist: Dr. I. L. Friedman 1619 Plymouth Ave. N. Minneapolis, Minnesota Proprietor of a Neighborhood Drug Store: Mr. Milton Desnick Lexington Drug Co. 1098 University Ave. St. Paul, Minnesota Trade Association Secretary: Mr. Earl F. Altnow, Secretary St. Paul Retail Grocers Assn. 204 Foot Schluze Building St. Paul, Minnesota Labor Union Official: Mr. Sam A. Swanson, Field Organizer United Electrical Radio & Machine Workers of America 1126 Harmon Place Minneapolis, Minnesota Beauty Parlor Operator: Miss Alice C. Johnson Emporium Beauty Salon 121 East Seventh St. St. Paul, Minnesota (Note: Do not write a thank you note to Miss Johnson.) The short time given to make arrangements for collectors proved to be the major handicap. All those whose assistance was obtained thought it was too burdensome to write out completely the rumors heard, and preferred to report over the telephone. Therefore, I checked with - 2 - them each day and relieved them of the recording work. Although the cooperation received from each one was good, the best response came from the labor leader and the beauty parlor operator. The next best results were received from the drug store proprietor and the trade association secretary. The dentist had little to offer. The beauty parlor operator felt that she would not be willing to continue this work because she feared that the girls employed in her shop might say and spread the report that they were doing FBI or Government investigating activities; that this talk might reach the public and might operate to hurt her business. Motivated by this fear, she asked that the Office of War Information should not even send a thank you letter to her because such a communication might be seen by the operators on duty and give rise to the talk referred to. She said that she was happy to have cooperated she had done in this instance; but that, on thinking the matter over, she felt it best to not to continue this rumor work. Under the circumstances, please do not send Miss Alice C. Johnson a letter of thanks, because I assured her that her participation would be kept strictly confidential. The other four individuals said that they would be willing to repeat this type of rumor reporting at reasonable intervals of time when called upon to do so. They thought the work was interesting; and said that they would be glad to cooperate with the OWI in the future. I was unable to obtain any results from the two policemen on beats who were contacted. They told me that no rumors of the type desired were heard by them. However, they did report opinions heard. It seems that these men were not in a position to pick up the information sought. Two dentists promised cooperation; but only one gave me any reports that could be used. A local Chamber of Commerce Secretary promised his cooperation; but had nothing to report. He said he had held a staff meeting, but could pick up nothing. The Secretary of the St. Paul Grocers Association, whose assistance was also asked to make doubly sure of results from business sources, did come through. - 3 - I do not believe this method of collecting rumors is good for the following reasons: 1. It seems to require fairly close local checking and supervision if substantial results are to be obtained. 2. It has the tendency, I noticed, of making the participant think he is being asked to sort of spy on others. 3. The idea of choosing a few people to report rumors, if it gets about, might be distorted and give rise to the impression that the Government is using "Gestapo" methods. I think a better method would be to enlist the cooperation of the public at large through establishment of rumor clinics as a community enterprise. In this way, the program could be carried out openly with public support and not confidentially; more substantial results could be obtained; and the possible impression of Government clandestine procedures would be prevented from arising. 513 Federal Courts Bldg. St. Paul, Minnesota October 13, 1942 To: William H. Webber From: Field Representative for Minnesota Subject: Availability of Rumor Collectors for Future Studies - 10/3/42 The names and addresses of the persons who cooperated with this office in the rumor collection undertaken during the week October 5 through October 9 are as follows: Dentist: Dr. I. L. Friedman 1619 Plymouth Ave. N. Minneapolis, Minnesota Proprietor of a Neighborhood Drug Store: Mr. Milton Desnick Lexington Drug Co. 1098 University Ave. St. Paul, Minnesota Trade Association Secretary: Mr. Earl F. Altnow, Secretary St. Paul Retail Grocers Assn. 204 Foot Schluze Building St. Paul, Minnesota Labor Union Official: Mr. Sam A. Swanson, Field Organizer United Electrical Radio & Machine Workers of America 1126 Harmon Place Minneapolis, Minnesota Beauty Parlor Operator: Miss Alice C. Johnson Emporium Beauty Salon 121 East Seventh St. St. Paul, Minnesota (Note: Do not write a thank you note to Miss Johnson.) The short time given to make arrangements for collectors proved o be the major handicap. All those whose assistance was obtained thought it was too burdensome write out completely the rumors heard, and preferred to report over the telephone. Therefore, I checked with -2- them each day and relieved them of the recording work. Although the cooperation received from each one was good, the best response came from the labor leader and the beauty parlor operator. The next best results were received from the drug store proprietor and the trade association secretary. The dentist had little to offer. The beauty parlor operator felt that she would not be willing to continue this work because she feared that the girls employed in her shop might say and spread the report that they were doing FBI or Government investigating activities; that this talk might reach the public and might operate to hurt her business. Motivated by this fear, she asked that the Office of War Information should not even send a thank you letter to her because such a communication might be seen by the operators on duty and give rise to the talk referred. She said she was happy to have cooperated as she had done in this instance; but that, on thinking the matter over, she felt it best not to continue the rumor work. Under the circumstances, please [underline] do not send Miss Alice C. Johnson a letter of thanks, [/underline] because i assured her that her participation would be kept strictly confidential. The other four individuals said that they would be willing to repeat this type of rumor reporting at reasonable intervals of time when called upon to do so. They thought the work was interesting; and said that they would be glad to cooperate with the OWI in the future.. I was unable to obtain any results from the two policemen on beats who were contacted. They told me that no rumors of the type desired were heard by them. However, they did report opinions heard. It seems that these men were not in a position to pick up the information sought. Two dentists promised cooperation; but only one gave me any reports that could be used. A local Chamber of Commerce Secretary promised his cooperation; but had nothing to report. He said he had held a staff meeting, but could pick up nothing. The Secretary of the St. Paul Grocers Association, whose assistance was also asked to make doubly sure of results from business sources. did come through - 3 - I do not believe this method of collecting rumors is good for the following reasons: 1. It seems to require fairly close local checking and supervision if substantial results are to be obtained. 2. It has the tendency, I noticed, of making the participant think he is being asked to sort of spy on others. 3. The idea of choosing a few people to report rumors, if it gets about, might be distorted and give rise to the impression that the Government is using "Gestapo" methods. I think a better method would be to enlist the cooperation of the public at large through establishment of rumor clinics as a community enterprise. In this way, the program could be carried out openly with public support and not confidentially; more substantial results could be obtained; and the possible impression of Government clandestine procedures would be prevented from arising. OFFICE OF WAR INFORMATION WASHINGTON Kansas City, Missouri, October 13, 1942. Mr. William H. Webber, CHIEF, INTELLIGENCE DIVISION, Bureau of Public Inquiries, Office of War Information, 1400 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D. C. Dear Mr. Webber: This is in compliance with your request for the names and addresses of the six persons who assisted us in the rumor collection the week of October 5. First, we will discuss the question of the efficiency of this method of collecting rumors. If our experience in this assignment was indicative of what may be expected from volunteer rumor collectors, then we would say that the method will be far from satisfactory. We found that the persons whose help was enlisted were willing enough, but that they simply lacked the training and the basic understanding of the whole war problem to enable them to do a good and thorough job of collecting rumors. For example, we found that some of the most interesting rumors which they heard they had not thought as of being rumors at the time, and did not put them down. But, when we conferred with them later and began questioning them, we dug it out of them. It is possible that we were unfortunate in our choice of contacts, but it is our belief that any persons we would choose would average up about the same. To repeat what we said in our report on the rumor survey, we found, for example, that the patrolman we had selected was moved over to a night shift and sent far out in a residential district where he had little opportunity to get rumors and he was so worried about his change of job, that he didn't give us anything. FOR VICTORY BUY UNITED STATES WAR BONDS AND STAMPS Mr. William H. Webber, #2 We wish to offer this suggestion for your very careful consideration. Why would it not be feasible and practical to utilize some person or persons in your OWI field offices to supervise this work of public opinion surveying? If public opinion surveys are to continue to be a vital part of the work of the OWI, then it would seem to us, from our experience here, that volunteer helpers will be independable, unskilled and likely fall down at the very time when you most need their help. Why not designate somebody in these field offices and utilize his services a part of the time for this work, some trained newspaper man who knows how to get the job done. Perhaps this sounds like the self-centered suggestion of an old Inquiries Bureau man trying to save something that he has helped to build up. Perhaps subconsciously there is some of this involved in what I say. But I still maintain that the hit and miss system of enlisting volunteers to do this service for the Government and to make it effective, will prove very disappointing. Listed below are the names, addresses, and the comments of the persons who cooperated in Kansas City on the rumor collection: 1. Dr. Leon N. Brams, dentist, Professional Building, Kansas City, Missouri -- Dr. Brams said the work was interesting and that it would not be too burdensome if he were not called upon too often. He said that he would try to do it when needed, if his practice would permit. 2. Jesse S. Williams, chairman of the Kansas City Industrial Union Council (CIO), Gashland, Missouri, a suburb of Kansas. He also can be reached by mail at CIO headquarters, Rialto Building, Kansas City, Missouri -- he is employed as a mechanic at the Butler Manufacturing Company, which has war production contracts. He found the work interesting, but said he was uncertain at times just what constituted a useable rumor. He said he could make similar surveys if they did not come more often than Mr. William H. Webber, #3 one week in a month. He said the work would not be too burdensome on that basis, but pointed out that frequently there were days when he had little time to give outside matters and could not always be sure when those days would be. 3. Elmer L. Davis, druggist, 5400 Independence Ave., Kansas City, Missouri -- found the work very interesting and is willing to assist again when needed. He pointed out, however, that he stays long hours in the store and sometimes does not have time to give his attention to such outside matters. He would be willing to help at any time with the understanding that he could not neglect his own business for it. 4. Mrs. Paulette Roeder, beauty operator, George B. Peck Department Store, Kansas City, Missouri -- Mrs. Roeder, too, found the rumors collected interesting and said that she would be willing to do it again if not called upon too frequently. She said that it would be burdensome if she were called upon more than about twice a month. 5. C. C. Carder, assistant to the executive manager at the Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, Kansas City, Missouri -- Mr. Carder, who had perhaps the most intelligent approach to the job of collecting rumors related to the war, said the work was interesting and not too burdensome. But he said that it appeared to him that this was something that took training and that even a person of above average intelligence would have to become accustomed to the job before being able to do it very effectively. He was wiling to do his best whenever called upon -- whether for a day, a week, or continuously -- but pointed out that there would be times when his own work would cut down the amount of time he could give to this work. 6. L. A. Lindquist, patrolman, 3908 Holmes Street, Kansas City, Missouri -- Mr. Lindquist, at the time we enlisted his cooperation for the rumor job, was a traffic patrolman on a downtown intersection. We selected him since we had no patrolmen on beats. The next day after Mr. William H. Webber, #4 our arrangement was made, he was transferred to the night shift in an outlying residential area. He had no telephone at home and it was almost impossible to contact him daily. He failed to turn in a single rumor because of this difficulty, a death in the family and other distractions. He said the work was interesting and under ordinary circumstances would not be too burdensome if it did not interfere with his duties. He said he was willing to help whenever called upon if his situation on his own job would permit. Sincerely, Kenneth P. Middleton Field Representative, Bureau of Public Inquiries. KPM:PMP Kansas City, Missouri, October 13, 1942. Mr. William H. Webber, CHIEF, INTELLIGENCE DIVISION, Bureau of Public Inquiries, Office of War Information, 1400 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D. C. Dear Mr. Webber: This is in compliance with your request for the names and addresses of the six persons who assisted us in the rumor collection the week of October 5. First, we will discuss the question of the efficiency of this method of collecting rumors. If our experience in this assignment was indicative of what may be expected from volunteer rumor collectors, then we would say that the method will be far from satisfactory. We found that the persons whose help was enlisted were willing enough, but that they simply lacked the training and the basic understanding of the whole war problem to enable them to do a good and thorough job of collecting rumors. For example, we found that some of the most interesting rumors which they heard they had not thought as of being rumors at the time, and did not put them down. But, when we conferred with them later and began questioning them, we dug it out of them. It is possible that we were unfortunate in our choice of contacts, but it is our belief that any persons we would choose would average up about the same. To repeat what we said in our report on the rumor survey, we found, for example, that the patrolman we had selected was moved over to a night shift and sent far out in a residential district where he had little opportunity to get rumors and he was so worried about his change of job, that he didn't give us anything. Mr. William H. Webber. #2 We wish to offer this suggestion for your very careful consideration. Why would it not be feasible and practical to utilize some person or persons in your OWI field offices to supervise this work of public opinion surveying? If public opinion surveys are to continue to be a vital part of the work of the OWI, then it would seem to us, from our experience here, that volunteer helpers will be independable, unskilled and likely to fail down at the very time when you most need their help. Why not designate somebody in these field offices and utilize his services a part of the time for this work, some trained newspaper man who knows how to get the job done. Perhaps this sounds like the self-centered suggestion of an old inquiries Bureau man trying to save something that he has helped to build up. Perhaps subconsciously there is some of this involved in what I say. But I still maintain that the hit and miss system of enlisting volunteers to do this service for the Government and to make it effective, will prove very disappointing. Listed below are the names, addresses and comments of the persons who cooperated in Kansas City on the rumor collection: 1. Dr. Leon N. Brams, dentist, Professional Building, Kansas City, Missouri -- Dr. Brams said the work was interesting and that it would not be too burdensome if he were not called upon too often. He said that he would try to do it when needed, if his practice would permit. 2. Jesse S. Williams, chairman of the Kansas City Industrial Union Council (CIO), Gashland, Missouri, a suburb of Kansas. He also can be reached by mail at CIO headquarters, Rialto Building, Kansas City, Missouri -- he is employed as a mechanic at the Butler Manufacturing Company, which has war production contracts. He found the work interesting, but said he was uncertain at times just what constituted a useable rumor. He said he could make similar surveys if they did not come more often than Mr. William H. Webber, #3 one week in a month. He said the work would not be too burdensome on that basis, but pointed out that frequently there were days when he had little time to give to outside matters and could not always be sure when those days would be. 3. Elmer L. Davis, druggist, 5400 Independence Ave., Kansas City, Missouri -- found the work very interesting and is willing to assit again when needed. He pointed out, however, that he stays long hours in the store and sometimes does not have time to give his attention to such outside matters. He would be willing to help at any time with the understanding that he could not neglect his own business for it. 4. Mrs. Paulette Roeder, beauty operator, George B. Peck Department Store, Kansas City, Missouri -- Mrs. Roeder, too, found the rumors collected interesting and said that she would be willing to do it again if not called upon too frequently. She said that it would be burdensome if she were called upon more than about twice a month. 5. C. C. Carder, assistant to the executive manager at the Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, Kansas City, Missouri -- Mr. Carder, who had perhaps the most intelligent approach to the job of collecting rumors related to the war, said the work was interesting and not too burdensome. But he said that it appeared to him that this was something that took training and that even a person of above average intelligence would have to become accustomed to the job before being able to do it very effectively. He was willing to do his best whenever called upon -- whether for a day, a week, or continuously -- but pointed out that there would be times when his own work would cut down the amount of time he could give to this work. 6. L. A. Linquist, patrolman, 3908 Holmes Street, Kansas City, Missouri -- Mr. Lindquist, at the time we enlisted his cooperation for the rumor job, was a traffic patrolman on a downtown intersection. We selected him since we had no patrolman on beats. The next day after Mr. William H. Webber, #4 our arrangement was made, he was transferred to the night shift in an outlying residential area. He had no telephone at home and it was almost impossible to contact him daily. He failed to turn in a single rumor because of this difficulty, a death in the family and other distractions. He said the work was interesting and under ordinary circumstances would not be too burdensome if it did not interfere with his duties. He said he was willing to help whenever called upon if his situation on his own job would permit. Sincerely, Kenneth P. Middleton, Field Representattive, Bureau of Public Inquiries. KPM:PMP Kansas City, Missouri, October 13, 1942. Mr. William H. Webber, CHIEF, INTELLIGENCE DIVISION, Bureau of Public Inquiries, Office of War Information, 1400 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D.C. Dear Mr. Webber: This is in compliance with your request for the names and addresses of the six persons who assisted us in the rumor collection the week of October 5. First, we will discuss the question of the efficiency of this method of collecting rumors. If our experience in this assignment was indicative of what may be expected from volunteer rumor collectors, then we would say that the method will be far from satisfactory. We found that the persons whose help was enlisted were willing enough, but that they simply lacked the training and the basic understanding of the whole war problem to enable them to do a good and thorough job of collecting rumors. For example, we found that some of the most interesting rumors which they heard they had not thought as of being rumors at the time, and did not put them down. But, when we conferred with them later and began questioning them, we dug it out of them. It is possible that we were unfortunate in our choice of contacts, but it is our belief that any persons we would choose would average up about the same. To repeat what we said in our report on the rumor survey, we found, for example, that the patrolman we had selected was moved over to a night shift and sent far out in a residential district where he had little opportunity to get rumors and he was so worried about his change of job, that he didn't give us anything. Mr. William H. Webber, #2 We wish to offer this suggestion for your very careful consideration. Why would it not be feasible and practical to utilize some person or persons in your OWI field offices to supervise this work of public opinion surveying? If public opinion surveys are to continue to be a vital part of the work of the OWI, then it would seem to us, from our experience here, that volunteer helpers will be independable, unskilled and likely to fall down at the very time when you most need their help. Why not designate somebody in these field offices and utilize his services a part of the time for this work, some trained newspaper man who knows how to get the job done. Perhaps this sounds like the self-centered suggestion of an old Inquiries Bureau man trying to save something that he has helped to build up. Perhaps sub- consciously there is some of this involved in what I say. But I still maintain that the hit and miss system of enlisting volunteers to do this service for the Government and to make it effective, will prove very disappointing. Listed below are the names, addresses and comments of the persons who cooperated in Kansas City on the rumor collection: 1. Dr. Leon N. Brams, dentist, Professional Building, Kansas City, Missouri -- Dr. Brams said the work was interesting and that it would not be too burdensome if he were not called upon too often. He said that he would try to do it when needed, if his practice would permit. 2. Jesse S. Williams, chairman of the Kansas City Industrial Union Council (CIO), Gashland, Missouri, a suburb of Kansas. He also can be reached by mail at CIO headquarters, Rial to Building, Kansas City, Missouri -- he is employed as a mechanic at the Butler Manufacturing Company, which has war production contracts. he found the work interesting, but said he was uncertain at times just what constituted a useable rumor. He said he could make similar surveys if they did not come more often than Mr. William H. Webber, #3 one week in a month. He said the work would not be too burdensome on that basis, but pointed out that frequently there were days when he had little time to give to outside matters and could not always be sure when those days would be. 3. Elmer L. Davis, druggist, 5400 Independence Ave., Kansas City, Missouri -- found the work very interesting and is willing to assist again when needed. he pointed out, however, that he stays long hours in the store and sometimes does not have time to give his attention to such outside matters. He would be willing to help at any time with the understanding that he could not neglect his own business for it. 4. Mrs. Paulette Roeder, beauty operator, George B. Peck Department Store, Kansas City, Missouri -- Mrs. Roeder, too, found the rumors collected interesting and said that she would be willing to do it again if not called upon too frequently. She said that it would be burdensome if she were called upon more than about twice a month. 5. C. C. Carder, assistant to the executive mana- ger at the Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, Kansas City, Missouri -- Mr. Carder, who had perhaps the most intelli- gent approach to the job of collecting rumors related to the war, said the work was interesting and not too burden- some. But he said that it appeared to him that this was something that took training and that even a person of above average intelligence would have to become accustomed to the job before being able to do it very effectively. He was willing to do his very best whenever called upon -- whether for a day, a week, or continuously -- but pointed out that there would be times when his own work would cut down the amount of time he could give to this work. 6. L. A. Lindquist, patrolman, 3908 Holmes Street, Kansas City, Missouri -- Mr. Lindquist, at the time we en- listed his cooperation for the rumor job, was a traffic patrolman on a downtown intersection. We selected him since we had no patrolmen on beats. The next day after Mr. William H. Webber, #4 our arrangement was made, he was transferred to the night shift in an outlying residential area. He had no telephone at home and it was almost impossible to contact him daily. He failed to turn in a single rumor because of this difficulty, a death in the family and other distractions. He said the work was interesting and under ordinary circumstances would not be too burdensome if it did not interfere with his duties. He said he was willing to help whenever called upon if his situation on his own job would permit. Sincerely, Kenneth P. Middleton Field Representative, Bureau of Public Inquiries. KPM:PMP OFFICE OF WAR INFORMATION WASHINGTON 602 Power Block, Helena, Montana October 14, 1942 To: William H. Webber From: Field Representative, Montana Subject: Availability of Rumor Collectors for Future Studies Attached are several rumors turned in by persons cooperating in the rumor collection. Following is a list of persons contacted to assist. Dr. John J. Hall 403 Power Block Helena, Montana Dentist. Found work interesting and is willing to cooperate in future studies either for an indefinite period, specified week or as requested. G. W. Millegan 831 Fifth Street Helena, Montana Police Sergeant. Showed interest. Offered no suggestions or comments. Will continue to collect rumors. Mr. Tom Robinson 4 North Benton Helena, Montana President of Lions Club. Very interested. Suggested perhaps certain civic group might make rumor studies or surveys. Willing to continue with rumor reporting as directed. Mr. Sam Harshfield 5 West Sixth Avenue Helena, Montana Proprietor of drug store. Had nothing to report but will continue to assist in study. Labor Union Official (Mr. Ed Mason President State CIO Council Butte, Montana) I was unable to make contact with a labor official connected with an industrial plant (East Helena smelter). Mr. Ed Mason, State President of the CIO will assist and said he would mail rumors to this office. Nothing has been received as yet. Travels most of the time and is in Helena about one day each week. Mrs. Esther Thomas Fligelman's Shop Helena, Montana Manager of Fligelman's Beauty Shop. At first seemed very interested but seems to have lost enthusiasm. Therefore, I contacted Miss Gay Dobler, La Gay Beauty Service, 101 North Main, Helena, who will assist. If people assigned to spot rumors for this study are furnished with unified mimeographed forms and letters of instructions direct from Washington, the results should be effective. [*Anne Ceccone*] Anne Ceccone Field Representative [*FOR VICTORY BUY UNITED STATES WAR BONDS AND STAMPS*] 602 Power Block, Helena, Montana October 14, 1942 To: William H. Webber From: Field Representative, Montana Subject: Availability of Rumor Collectors for Future Studies Attached are several rumors turned in by persons cooperating in the rumor collection. Following is a list of persons contacted to assist. Dr. John J. Hall 403 Power Block Helena, Montana Dentist. Found work interesting and is willing to cooperate in future studies either for an indefinite period, specified week or as requested. G. W. Millegan 831 Fifth Street Helena, Montana Police Sergeant, Showed interest. Offered no suggestions or comments. Will continue to collect rumors. Mr. Tom Robinson 4 North Benton Helena, Montana President of Lions Club. Very interested. Suggested perhaps certain civic group might make rumor studies or surveys. Willing to continue with rumor reporting as directed. Mr. Sam Harshfield 5 West Sixth Avenue Helena, Montana Proprietor of drug store. Had nothing to report but will continue to assist in study. Labor Union Official (Mr. Ed Mason President State CIO Council Butte, Montana) I was unable to make contact with a labor official connected with an industrial plant (East Helena smelter). Mr. Ed Mason, State President of the CIO will assist and said he would mail rumors to this office. Nothing has been received as yet. Travels most of the time and is in Helena about one day each week. Mrs. Esther Thomas Fligelman's Shop Helena, Montana Manager of Fligelman's Beauty Shop. At first seemed very interested but seems to have lost enthusiasm. Therefore, I contacted Miss Gay Dobler, La Gay Beauty Service, 101 North Main, Helena, who will assist. If people assigned to spot rumors for this study are furnished with unified mimeographed forms and letters of instructions direct from Washington, the results should be effective. Anne Ceccone Field Representative 602 Power Block, Helena, Montana October 14, 1942 To: William H. Webber From: Field Representative, Montana Subject: Availability of Rumor Collectors for Future Studies Attached are several rumors turned in by persons cooperating in the rumor collection. Following is a list of persons contacted to assist. Dr. John J. Hall Dentist. Found work interesting and is willing 403 Power Block to cooperate in future studies either for an Helena, Montana indefinite period, specified week or as requested. G.W. Millegan Police Sergeant. Showed interest. Offered no 831 Fifth Street suggestions or comments. Will continue to Helena, Montana collect rumors. Mr. Tom Robinson President of Lions Club. Very interested. 4 North Benton Suggested perhaps certain civic group might make Helena, Montana rumor studies or surveys. Willing to continue with rumor reporting as directed. Mr. Sam Harshfield Proprietor of drug store. Had nothign to report 5 West Sixth Avenue but will continue to assist in study. Helena, Montana Labor Union Official I was unable to make contact with a labor official connected with an industrial plant (Eat Helena smelter). Mr. Ed Mason, State President of the (Mr. Ed Mason CIO will assist and said he would mail rumors to this President office. Nothing has been received as yet. Travels State CIO Council most of the time and is in Helena about one day each Butte, Montana) week. Mrs. Esther Thomas Manager of Fligelman's Beauty Shop. At first seemed Fligelman's Shop very interested but seems to have lost enthusiasm. Helena, Montana Therefore, I contacted Miss Gay Dobler, La Gay Beauty Service, 101 North Main, Helena, who will assist. If people assigned to spot rumors for this study are furnished with unified mimeographed forms and letters of instructions direct from Washington, the results should be effective. Anne Ceccone Field Representative State: Montana City: Helena Reported by: Mr. Tom Robinson, Pres. Lions Club RUMOR (In a Drug Store) Recently, while stopping for a few moments in a drug store, I overheard two men discussing the Wendell L. Willkie trip abroad. One said he had heard that the President, when instructing Willkie relative to the matters that he should take up in these various countries, had authorized him to make the statements with reference to creating a new front, and that he was to shout this in the different countries to stir up Great Britain and awaken the British to the necessity of a second front. But, this man continued, later the President did not like the reaction to the statements of Wendell Willkie and therefore backed up on the whole proposition and assumed no responsibility for such statements by his representative in Russia and China. Then Mr. Willkie, of course, had to say that he was speaking only as an American citizen, expressing his own views, and not as an official of the United States Government or as a representative of the President. State: Montana City: Helena Reported by: Field Representative (October 9, 1942) Told to Field Representative at a Club Meeting: It wont be long before we wont be able to get any more coffee or tea. One of my neighbor's relatives in Massachusetts wrote her to please send them some coffee and tea as it was absolutely impossible to buy it anymore. State: Montana City: Helena Reported by: Field Representative Montana October 7, 1942 (Told on the street to me) Selective Service boards are drafting married men while single boys with no dependents are still running around loose. If you haven't got pull, you're just out of luck. State: Montana City: Helena Reported by- Policeman (On the street) Rumor Earning stripes in the Army Hell, you have to have a a political pull or drag in order to get them it is nothing but politics and nothing else I am telling you. G. W. Millegan Sgt of Police Heard in Helena, Oct. 10th from a salesman. The soldiers in Great Falls are responsible for so many pregnancies among high school girls, the authorities brot in 300 prostitutes, to cope with the situation State: Montana City: Helena Reported by J.J. Hall Dentist July + Oct 1942 Heard in Corvallis from relatives who have former neighbors working in Seattle ship yards. Workers are sent on errands to get something + as much as 2 or 3 hours of their time is wasted before they are given some simple thing. This is common practice, grossly impeding war efforts. This rumor comes from 3 different sources. State: Montana City: Helena Reported by: Dentist At Corvallis, Montana - home. Dr. J.J. Hall OFFICE OF WAR INFORMATION INTER-OFFICE MEMORANDUM [OFFICE OF GOVERNMENT REPORTS] TO: William H. Webber, Bureau of Intelligence DATE: 10/12/42 FROM: Field Representative, Oklahoma - Frederick B. Behringer SUBJECT: Availability of Rumor Collectors for Future Studies--WHH 10/3/42 The names and addresses of the persons cooperating in the collection of rumors are as follows: Mr. Dan Hollingsworth Oklahoma City Police Department Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Mr. George Austin, Proprietor Classen Drug Store 2722 Classen Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Mr. O. L. Crain, President Oklahoma City Trades Council Franklin Buildig Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Dr. George E. Roland, Dentist Medical Arts Building Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Mr. Harry B. Rutledge, Sec'y Chamber of Commerce Norman, Oklahoma Miss Leslie Smith, Proprietor Leslie Merle Beauty Shop Norman, Oklahoma The only persons indicating any definite interest in the job were the policeman and the beauty operator. The policeman, the labor representative, and the beauty operator are willing to cooperate further in this line of rumor reporting; the policeman and the labor representative being willing to keep up the activity from time to time; whereas, it was a burden on the beauty operator, and she could participate only occasionally. It is my own opinion that an effective method for obtaining rumors can best be accomplished on the basis that the persons asked are personally known to the field representative to have certain innate qualities; a willingness to devote sufficient time and thought to the problem; and, accept possible infringements on his or her time and business. The time allowed to make the assignments and collect the rumors for this initial report was entirely inadequate to give consideration to proper selection of persons or the necessary detailed instructions for complying with the requirements set forth in your directive. Time should be allowed for the field representative to make careful selections of persons who are capable and willing to maintain a constant vigilance on such matters and "jot" them down when they occur. Probably the only two on this list who could be effectively used as contacts out of Washington would be Mr. Hollingsworth and Mr. Crain. OFFICE OF WAR INFORMATION William H. Webber, Bureau of Intelligence Field Representative, Oklahoma - Frederick D. Behringer Availability of Rumor Collectors for Future Studies--WHH 10/3/42 The names and addresses of the persons cooperating in the collection of rumors are as follows: Mr. Dan Hollingsworth Oklahoma City Police Department Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Mr. George Austin, Proprietor Classen Drug Store 2722 Classen Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Mr. O. L. Grain, President Oklahoma City Trades Council Franklin Building Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Dr. George E. Roland, Dentist Medical Arts Building Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Mr. Harry B. Rutledge, Sec'y Chamber of Commerce Norman, Oklahoma Miss Leslie Smith, Proprietor Leslie Merle Beauty Shop Norman, Oklahoma The only persons indicating any definitive interest in the job were the policeman and the beauty operator. The policeman, the labor representative, and the beauty operator are willing to cooperate further in this line of rumor reporting; the policeman and the labor representative being willing to keep up the activity from time to time; whereas, it was a burden on the beauty operator, and she could participate only occasionally. It is my own opinion that an effective method for obtaining rumors can best be accomplished on the basis that the persons asked are personally known to the field representative to have certain innate qualities; a willingness to devote sufficient time and thought to the problem; and, accept possible infringements on his or her time and business. The time allowed to make the assingments and collect the rumors for this initial report was entirely inadequate to give consideration to proper selection of persons or the necessary detailed instructions for complying with the requirements set forth in your directive. Time should be allowed for the field representative to make careful selections of persons who are capable and willing to maintain a constant vigilance on such matters and "jot" them down when they occur. Probably the only two on this list who could be effectively used as contacts out of Washington would be Mr. Hollingsworth and Mr. Crain. OFFICE OF WAR INFORMATION BUREAU OF PUBLIC INQUIRIES INTER-OFFICE MEMORANDUM OFFICE OF GOVERNMENT REPORTS TO: William H. Webber DATE: 10-14-42 FROM: Tennessee Field Representative SUBJECT: PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL In reply to your memorandum of October 3 relative to rumor collectors, I am sorry to advise that the reports we received were so disappointing that I am of the opinion that this particular list would be of little or no value to you. Those persons from whom we heard were: Mrs. Virginia B. Hart, Woman mill worker and 400 Dale Avenue, member of I.L.G.W.Q, Knoxville, Tennessee. Local 377. Mrs. Grady E. Jaques, Manager of a beauty 521 Market Street, parlor catering to upper Knoxville, Tennessee. income bracket. Mrs. Beauton Gooding, Owner and manager of La Vogue Beauty Parlor, beauty parlor catering 1873 Madison Avenue, to upper and medium Memphis, Tennessee. and higher brackets. Mr. Clifford Penland, Secretary, Memphis Chamber of Commerce, Memphis, Tennessee. Dr. Justin Towner, Dentist whose clientele Exchange Building, consists principally of Memphis, Tennessee business men. Amy Brown Miles Amy Brown Miles FIELD REPRESENTATIVE LH BUREAU OF PUBLIC INQUIRIES OFFICE OF WAR INFORMATION BUREAU OF PUBLIC INQUIRIES XXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXX XXXX William H. Webber 10-14-42 Tennessee Field Representative PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL In reply to your memorandum of October 3 relative to rumor collectors, I am sorry to advise that the reports we received were so disappointing that I am of the opinion that this particular list would be of little or no value to you. Those persons from whom we heard were: Mrs. Virginia B. Hart, Woman mill worker and 400 Dale Avenue, member of I.L.G.W.V., Knoxville, Tennessee. Local 377. Mrs. Grady E. Jaques, Manager of a beauty 521 Market Street, parlor catering to upper Knoxville, Tennessee. income bracket. Mrs. Beauton Gooding, Owner and manager of La Vogue Beauty Parlor, beauty parlor catering 1873 Madison Avenue, to upper and medium Memphis, Tennessee. income bracket. Mr. Stanfill, Neighborhood drug store Stanfill-Reitz Drug Store, serving cross section of Semmes Avenue, income group from lower to Memphis, Tennessee. and higher brackets. Mr. Clifford Penland, Secretary, Memphis Chamber of Commerce, Memphis, Tennessee. Dr. Justin Towner, Dentist whose clientele Exchange Building, consists principally of Memphis, Tennessee business men. Amy Brown Miles FIELD REPRESENTATIVE LH BUREAU OF PUBLIC INQUIRIES INTER-OFFICE MEMORANDUM OFFICE OF GOVERNMENT REPORTS TO: William H. Webber DATE: 10-20-42 FROM: Field Representative - Texas SUBJECT: Availability of Rumor Collectors for Future Studies PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL As requested in your memo of October 3, there is listed below the names, addresses and reactions of persons who have cooperated with us in rumor collections: Dr. Frank Gullette - Dentist Norwood Building Austin, Texas Considered collecting rumors interesting, and willing to cooperate as far as possible. Suggested, however, that the services of another dentist be enlisted since his practice is to heavy to allow much time for collecting and classifying rumors. Victor Cluck - Chamber of Commerce Official Chamber of Commerce Building Austin, Texas Enthusiastic over collecting rumors and willing to cooperate to the fullest extent. Thinks that rumors should be collected for a specified week from time to time. Frances Thompson - Beauty Parlor Owner and Operator Extremely interested in rumor collecting and willing to continue, preferably for specified week from time to time. Sam McDonald - Labor Union Official 1010 West 24th Street Austin, Texas (Has not been available for contact since the writing of last rumor report. Will get in touch with him as soon as possible.) INTER-OFFICE MEMORANDUM OFFICE OF GOVERNMENT REPORTS TO: William H. Webber Date: 10-20-42 FROM: Field Representative- Texas SUBJECT: Greenwood Wooten - Drug Store 922 Congress Avenue Austin, Texas Very cooperative, but suggested that more time be allowed. In favor of specified week. O.M. Doherty - Policeman City Police Department Austin, Texas Enjoyed collecting rumors and is willing to continue. Had no other suggestions to offer. INTER-OFFICE MEMORANDUM OFFICE OF GOVERNMENT REPORTS TO: William H. Webber DATE: 10-20-42 FROM: Field Representative - Texas SUBJECT: Availability of Rumor Collectors for Future Studies PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL As requested in your memo of October 3, there is listed below the names, addresses and reactions of persons who have cooperated with us in rumor collections: Dr. Frank Gullette - Dentist Norwood Building Austin, Texas Considered collecting rumors interesting, and willing to cooperate as far as possible. Suggested, however, that the services of another dentist be enlisted since his practice is to heavy to allow much time for collecting and classifying rumors. Victor Cluck - Chamber of Commerce Official Chamber of Commerce Building Austin, Texas Enthusiastic over collecting rumors and willing to cooperate to the fullest extent. Thinks that rumors should be collected for a specified week from time to time. Frances Thompson - Beauty Parlor Owner and Operator Extremely interested in rumor collecting and willing to continue, preferably for specified week from time to time. Sam McDonald - Labor Union Official 1010 West 24th Street Austin, Texas (Has not been available for contact since the writing of last rumor report. Will get in touch with him as soon as possible.) INTER-OFFICE MEMORANDUM OFFICE OF GOVERNMENT REPORTS TO: William H. Webber DATE: 10-20-42 FROM: Field Representative - Texas SUBJECT: Greenwood Wooten - Drug Store 922 Congress Avenue Austin, Texas Very cooperative, but suggested that more time be allowed. In favor of specified week. O. M. Doherty - Policeman City Police Department Austin, Texas Enjoyed collecting rumors and is willing to continue. Had no other suggestions to offer. INTER-OFFICE MEMORANDUM OFFICE OF GOVERNMENT REPORTS TO: William H. Webber DATE: 10-20-42 FROM: Field Representative - Texas SUBJECT: Availability of Rumor Collectors for Future Studies PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL As requested in your memo of October 3, there is listed below the names, addresses and reactions of persons who have cooperated with us in rumor collections: Dr. Frank Gullette - Dentist Norwood Building Austin, Texas Considered collecting rumors interesting, and willing to cooperate as far as possible. Suggested, however, that the services of another dentist be enlisted since his practice is to heavy to allow much time for collecting and classifying rumors. Victor Cluck - Chamber of Commerce Official Chamber of Commerce Building Austin, Texas Enthusiastic over collecting rumors and willing to cooperate to the fullest extent. Thinks that rumors should be collected for a specified week from time to time. Frances Thompson - Beauty Parlor Owner and Operator Extremely interested in rumor collecting and willing to continue, preferably for specified week from time to time. Sam McDonald - Labor Union Official 1010 West 24th Street Austin, Texas (Has not been available for contact since the writing of last rumor report. Will get in touch with him as soon as possible.) INTER-OFFICE MEMORANDUM OFFICE OF GOVERNMENT REPORTS TO: William H. Webber DATE: 10-20-42 FROM: Field Representative - Texas SUBJECT: Greenwood Wooten - Drug Store 922 Congress Avenue Austin, Texas Very cooperative, but suggested that more time be allowed. In favor of specified week. O. M. Doherty - Policeman City Police Department Austin, Texas Enjoyed collecting rumors and is willing to continue. Had no other suggestions to offer. Transcribed and reviewed by contributors participating in the By The People project at crowd.loc.gov.