Correspondence Oct. 1-15, 1953 RABBI NORMAN GERSTENFELD WASHINGTON HEBREW CONGREGATION WASHINGTON, D.C. OCTOBER 2, 1953 DEAR MRS. VALENTINE, I REGRET THAT I CANNOT BE WITH YOU BECAUSE OF A PREVIOUS ENGAGEMENT. PLEASE ACCEPT THIS WORD OF HOMAGE TO A GREAT CITIZEN AND OUR PRAYERS FOR GOD'S BLESSING. SINCERELY,' NORMAN GERSTENFELD MRS. GENEVA K. VALENTINE, GENERAL CHAIRMAN COMMITTEE FOR ESTABLISHING THE MARY CHURCH TERRELL FUND 207 FLORIDA AVENUE, N.W. WASHINGTON I, D.C. MARY MCLEOD BETHUNE FOUNDER-PRESIDENT, EMERITUS Telephone, COlumbia 5-4434 DOROTHY B. FEREBEE NATIONAL PRESIDENT National Council of Negro Women, Inc. 1318 Vermont Avenue, Northwest Washington 5, D. C. Affiliated with THE NATIONAL COUNCIL OF WOMEN OF THE UNITED STATES and INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL OF WOMEN OF THE WORLD October 2, 1953 Mrs. Mary Church Terrell 1615 S Street, Northwest Washington, D. C. My dear Mrs. Terrell: The National Council of Negro Women joins me in extending congratulations and hearty best wishes on the occasion of your 90th birthday celebration. I remember with great joy hearing my Great Aunt, Mrs. Josephine St. Pierre Ruffin, recount her early comradeship and association with you in the pioneering days for Negro women. All of us, through succeeding generations, have leaned heavily on the strength of your fine and unswerving leadership. We believe the example you have set will increasingly play its part in the development of leadership potentials among women everywhere. We fully share with you the joy of this occasion. Very sincerely yours, Dorothy B. Ferebee Dorothy B. Ferebee President WOMEN UNITED....."A Magazine Dedicated to all Women Everywhere" W. E. BURGHARDT DUBOIS THIRTY ONE GRACE COURT BROOKLYN 2, N. Y. October 2, 1953 Dr. and Mrs. W.E.B. Du Bois send congratulations and all good wishes to Mrs. Mary Church Terrell on her ninetieth birthday. They join with other Americans in appreciation of her long and valuable services to the nation and to the Negro race. WEBD Mrs. Mayme Williams 413 East 64th Street Chicago 37, Illinois October 3, 1953 Mary Church Terrell Luncheon Committee 207 Florida Avenue N. W. Washington 1, D. C. Dear Friends; Thanks for your kind invitation to attend the luncheon in honor of Dr Mary Church Terrell. I regret exceedingly, that I will not be able to attend, owing to a very important business trip I have scheduled for the same date. I had the grand privilege and honor to present this distinguished lady in June of this year, at a luncheon held in the Sherman Hotel, in honor of our National President, Mrs Irene M. Gaines, given by the Chicago Council of Negro Organizations. Dr Terrell was the principal speaker, and certainly convinced us that her ninety years have not checked her militant spirit and her crusade for human rights. We rejoice with her , that she has lived to enjoy her latest victory, in her fight for the enforcement of the District of Columbia Anti-Discriminations Laws. This opportunity to present her, and to have her as our guest in our Headquarters, will remain among my most cherished experiences. Please extend to her my heartiest congratulations, and my best wishes for many more happy birthdays. Very truly yours, Mayme Williams, Past President Chicago and Northern District Association of Colored Women. Pennsylvania State Federation of Negro Women's Clubs, Inc. Office of President October 3rd, 1953. Mrs. Geneva K. Valentine, General Chairman, Of the Committee For The Mary Church Terrell Celebration. Dear Co-Worker; I am happy to respond immediately to a letter dated September 10th, extending an invitation to members of my organization to participate in the Nation-wide celebration of the 90th Birthday of Dr. Mary Church Terrell. We are happy to take part in this great event. That noble character Dr. Terrell will always live in the hearts of every true and free thinking American, and defender of Human Rights. She realized that the God who gave us life gave us liberty at the same time. Living is doing, even while we say there is nothing we can do, we stumble over opportunity for service. An invitation to attend the Celebration and the announcement of the gift to our First National President have been sent to all the clubs in the Pennsylvania State Federation of Negro Women's Clubs, Inc. I am planning to attend. Sincerely yours, Alberta J. Braxton Alberta J. Braxton, President. Michigan State Association of Colored Women Affiliated with the National Association of Colored Women, Inc. (Oct 5, 1953) 318 1/2 Colfax Ave. Benton Harbor, Mich. Mrs. Mary Church Terrill Congratulations on your Birthday. We are thankful God has granted you such a long and useful life, always working for the rights of our people. May he continue to bless you with good health and happiness. Jessie Holliday Chariman of the Mich. Mother, Home & Child Dep/ Jessie Holliday Mary McLord Bethune Club Benton Harbor, Mich. [*President MRS. EMMA L. REID 4540 Tireman Detroit 4, Michigan First Vice-President MRS. GEORGIA DUNGY 1417 Krum Ave. Kalamazoo, Michigan Second Vice-President MRS. DULCIE PACE 645 Pleasant St. Grand Rapids, Michigan Corresponding Secretary MRS. EDITH ROBINSON 1506 Liberty St. Fling, Michigan Financial Secretary MRS. WILBERT SMITH 522 Englewood Detroit, Michigan Treasurer MRS. BEATRICE PRESTON 2080 Chicago Blvd. Detroit, Michigan Parliamentarian MRS. SADIE PALMER 2437 Vermont Detroit, Michigan Statistician MRS. ANNIE McFADDEN 2001 Dwight St. Flint, Michigan State Organizer MRS. ROSEZELLA SIMMONS 649 Pleasant St. Grand Rapids, Michigan Chaplain MRS. MARTH BRANDON 554 Mack Ave. Detroit, Michigan Program MRS. MILLIE HYNSON 655 Alger St. Detroit, Michigan Education MRS. PRUDENCE PERRY 273 Marlborough Ave. Detroit, Michigan Legislative MRS. ALENE NOEL 244 E. Philadelphia Detroit, Michigan Interracial MRS. PEARL HARRIS 934 King Detroit, Michigan Industry MRS. FAY TANNER 1445 Chicago Blvd. Detroit, Michigan Health and Hygiene MRS. LAYCETTA BAKER 13 McNeal St. Pontiac, Michigan Child Welfare MRS. JESSIE HALLIDAY 318 1/2 Colfax Ave. Benton Harbor, Michigan Youth Guidance MRS. ROSA C. LONG 2187 Russel Rd. Muskegon, Michigan Art MRS ADDIE PEEPLES 143 Chestnut Benton Harbor, Michigan Music MRS. JERENE G. MACKLIN 549 Hague St. Detroit, Michigan Publicity MRS. RUTH BOLAR 151 Harmon Ave. Detroit, Michigan Finance MRS. ALF THOMAS 55 Arden Park Detroit, Michigan CLEO HALEY 140 Clay St. Battle Creek, Michigan MRS. D. T. BURTON 54 Arden Park Detroit, Michigan Board of Managers MRS. MARY B. RHODES 607 East Adams St. Detroit, Michigan MRS. HATTIE BYRD 2122 McDougall St. Detroit, Michigan Defense Bonds MRS. SALLIE M. SHELTON 5435 Milford Ave. Detroit, Michigan Public Affairs MRS. MARY F. BRAY 5311 Maybury Grand Detroit, Michigan Scrap Book MRS. JOSEPHINE MAY 8968 Vinton Detroit, Michigan*] Central State College CHARLES H. WESLEY, PRESIDENT WILBERFORCE, OHIO OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT October 5, 1953 Mrs. Geneva K. Valentine General Chairman The Mary Church Terrell Fund 207 Florida Avenue, N. W. Washington 1, D. C. Dear Mrs. Valentine: I have received your letter and invitation to the luncheon in honor of Dr. Mary Church Terrell dated October 10, 1953. I would like to accept your invitation because of my high esteem for Mrs. Terrell as given through the years of association with her and her work in Washington, D. C. My esteem and appreciation have already been demonstrated in my recommendation to the Board of Trustees for the Honorary Doctorate Award to her. Unfortunately, I have previous engagement here at the college which will make it impossible for me to be present at the luncheon. Mrs. Wesley joins me in expressing our regret; however, we are sending herewith my check of $4.50. Best wishes for a successful occasion. Sincerely yours, Charles H. Wesley CHW: mas Saturday Oct 5, '53 Dearest Mrs. Terrell, The news from Washington gets better and better. I could hardly believe my ears when I heard that you won over both Loew's and Warner Bros- just by letting them know you were becoming interested in them! I was so sure it was going to be a long hard fight. The blow of the Supreme Court decision hit them very hard, apparently and they are all terrified of the sweet and gentle and cultured lady just turned a vigorous ninety! I wish I had equally good news as the book end of matters. I brought a copy of the book to Doubleday & Co. and they are reading it now. I have no way of knowing whether the Miss Rye I spoke to at Doubleday is anybody in authority or not- but she is one of the editors and at least the book is being discussed. It was suggested that Walter White might know someone at Doubleday- I plan to call him & see if he would help. The proposal made by Citadel Press is very high and I've heard from friends that it is excessively high with not enough promotion by the publishers in sight. So I'm thinking it would be best to keep on trying with the other big commercial publishing houses a little longer- meanwhile coming to grips with the question of the new chapter. I spoke to Dr. Margaret Butcher about the work she had done in Washington about getting Ransdell to reprint the book and I was startled by the difference between his price & Citadel's. I am planing to come to D.C. on Friday evening & I'll call you as soon as I get in. I'll stay at the Reins, I guess. It's inevitable that I did a good deal of fumbling on the book so far, since I'm so ignorant of the book business, but I am gradually learning at least to know what mistakes I have already made - let's hope I don't make too many more. Congratulations on the wonderful movie victory - and all my love Annie Gaudeamus Woman's Club Organized August 21, 1911 Founder, Mrs. Fannie Baxter Motto: To Be Rather Than Seem President, Mrs. Corine W. Dacus 226 East 54th Street KE 6-0394 VICE PRESIDENTS Mrs. Easter Steele Mrs. Etoya Johnson RECORDING SECRETARY Mrs. Lula Humphrey CORRESPONDING SECRETARY Mrs. Lillie Carter FINANCIAL SECRETARY Mrs. Helen Watts TREASURER Mrs. Fannie Dixon PARLIAMENTARIAN Mrs. Alva Delaney October 5, 1953 My Dear Mrs Terrell, The Gaudeamus Women's Club extend their very best and warm-hearted wishes to you on this happy day. May this be the happiest birthday you have ever celebrated. We regret that we cannot have some members of Gaudeamus there to take part in the celebration in person but we shall each pause on this great day of October 10th and give a silent prayer for you in honor not only that our "Heavenly Father" has given you so many wonderful years of life but also for the work, ideals and sound principles that you over the years have given to the Federated Clubs of America. When we look at our local clubs today and see their progress we can never forget that if it hadn't been for great American Women like you, we would not be at this height in Club work. It is wonderful to be reminded that women, as you, who have carried such deep love for humanity can grow sweeter and more beautiful with the years. May you always continue. Gaudeamus Woman's Club. October 5, 1953. To you, Mrs. Terrell, we the Gaudeamus Woman's Club are very proud and happy again to say- "A Very Happy Birthday to one of the greatest of all American Women. Most Sin "Lifting As We Climb- Gaudeamus Woman's Club Carine Dasus - President Helen Martin-Corr. Secty. PROGRESSIVE PARTY of the DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA 75 930 F Street, N.W Room 519 Washington, D. C. ME. 8-2477 October 6,1953 Dear Mrs. Terrell: The Progressive Party of the District of Columbia sends you warmest greetings on the occasion of your ninetieth birthday. This is a memorable event not only to use in the District but to all democratic-minded person throughout the country. You are the embodiment of all that stands for equality, justice and righteousness and an inspiration to those of us who share your ideals. It is our hope that you will celebrate many more birthdays - - that before this time next year many more victories in the cause in which you have worked so hard will be achieved. Cordially yours, Joseph Forer Joseph Forer Chairman Gertrude Evans Gertrude Evans Executive Secretary Dr. Mary Church Terrell 1615 S Street N.W. Washington,D.C. Washington Branch AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN 1785 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Room 116 Washington 6, D.C. Phone NOrth 1518 6 October 1953. Dear Mrs. Terrell, I want you to know that your fellow members of the Washington Branch, A.A.U.W., considered it an honor to celebrate with you last evening the momentous birthday that marks the beginning of your "gay Nineties". We realize that through your years of work to improve public education, to secure suffrage for women, to promote better understanding among the women of different countries, and - above all - to strengthen our democracy in practice, you have made great contributions in fields of particular concern to the American Association of University Women. May these years ahead be happy ones as your work continues to bear fruit! Faithfully yours, Katherine A. Frederic President. 17 Molton Street Montgomery, Alabama October 6, 1953 Dear Mrs. Terrell: Thank you so much for your gracious letter which I appreciated very much. I am glad to have your consent to write the story of the long year's of relationship between your family and mine, and if you have any anecdotes or remembrances to write concerning my Grandfather, Col Josiah Patterson, or my Uncle Governor Malcolm Patterson, of my brother-in-law, Justice Hugo Black, I would very much appreciate having them. My friend, Aubrey Williams is going to debate Governor Herman Talmadge of Georgia, next Monday night on Television on the subject of Segregation in the Public Schools of the South. The broadcast will originate in Washington in the Dumont studios in the Raleigh Hotel, at 8:30 in the evening. A small audience is allowed, and I hope if you can, you will go and take a few friends with you to give him some moral support. He will need it, as he is met with a great deal of hostility in the South, and receives very little support even from the Negro community. I am sure they are for him, but are afraid to support him openly. I had forgotten in my long years out of the Deep South how much stark fear there is left. Certainly your courage has been a beacon light for all of us in the struggle, and I was thrilled to read about the movies opening up. Washington in time may get to be a truly American city in the best sense of the word. Certainly what American has stood for in the past, and what it stands for today are not consistent. But perhaps it is because I am only seeing the face of America that the Ngroes have seen all along. With kindest and best wishes and my affectionate regard, I am sincerely yours, Virginia Durr 6 Oct 1953 Dear Mrs. Terrell, To you my Everlasting Gratitude for the superb role you have played in trying to save the United States for Democracy. Cordially, Lucille Miller 647 E Dayton St. Madison Wis Commercial Cables SUBSIDIARY OF AMERICAN CABLE & RADIO CORPORATION Largest American owned International telegraph system providing worldwide service by cable and radio 408 WEST 128 th STREET, NEW YORK, N.Y. OCTOBER 6, 1953. DEAR MRS.TERRELL: I CONGRATULATE WARMLY ON YOUR 90 TH BIRTHDAY, AND WISH YOU AS MANY MORE BIRT BIRTHDAYS AS YOU YOURSELF WANT. WE ALL, OF COURSE, WANT AND NEED MANY MORE FOR YOU. IT IS A BEAUTIFUL AND SATISFYING THING TO SEE A PERSON LIVE TO WORK, FIGHT A AND SUCCEED, TO SEE THE JOB BEGUN, TO SATY RIGHT WITH IT, AND HELP CARRY IT THROUGH. WE ARE ALL VERY HAPPY THAT YOU ARE WITH US TO SEE THIS DAY WHEN WOMEN, THE NEGRO PEOPLE, THE WORKING PEOPLE, THE COLONIAL PEOPLE ARE ALL WITHIN REACHING DISTANCE OF EQUALITY, FREEDOM, AND INDEPENDENCE. MANY HAVE ALREADY ACHIEVED THESE GOALS. WE ALL HOPE YOU WILL LIVE TO SEE THE DAY WHEN THERE WILL BE NO MORE INFERIOR, DEPENDENT, NON SELF GOVERNING PEOPLE LEFT IN THIS WORLD OF OURS. BECAUSE, OF COURSE, IT IS OUR WORLD. A WOMAN'S WORLD AS WELL AS A MAN'S WORLD,- MORE SO, BECAUSE WE WOMEN ARE A LITTLE MORE THAN HALF THE POPULATION OF THE EARTH, AND IT IS A COLORED AS WELL AS A WHITE WORLD,- MORE SO, BECAUSE WE COLORED PEOPLES MAKE UP TWO-THIRDS OF THE WORLD POPULATION. ON THIS YOUR BIRTHDAY, WE PLEDGE TO YOU THAT WE WILL CONTINUES THIS FIGHT UNTIL EVERYONE EVERYWHERE RECOGNIZES THESE FACTS OF LIFE, THESE FACTS OF OUR WORLD, AND BEHAVES ACCORDINGLY. IT MUST BE A GRATIFYING AND MARVELLOUS FEELING FOR YOU TO COUNT THE YEARS YOU HAVE GIVEN TO THIS FIGHT, GIVEN SO BRAVELY AND SO EFFECTIVELY. IF WE ALL FOLLOW IN YOUR FINE TRADITION, IT WILL BE WON VERY SOON, SO THAT YOU CAN SAVOR AND ENJOY THE VICTORY. WITH AFFECTIONATE RESPECT, Eslanda Robeson ESLANDA GOODE ROBESON MRS. PAUL ROBESON (Cardozo to you!) 408 West 128th Street, New York, N.Y. October 6, 1953. Dear Mrs. Terrell: I congratulate warmly on your 90th birthday, and wish you as many more birthdays as you yourself want. We all, of course, want and need many more for you. It is a beautiful and satisfying thing to see a person live to work, fight and succeed, to see the job begun, to stay right with it, and help carry it through. We are all very happy that you are with us to see this day when Women, the Negro People, the Working People, the Colonial People are all within reaching distance of Equality, Freedom, and Independence. Many have already achieved these goals. We all hope you will live to see the day when there will be no more Inferior, Dependent, Non self governing People left in this world of ours. Because, of course, IT IS OUR WORLD. A Woman's World as well asa Man's World, -more so, because we women are a little more than half the population of the Earth. And is is a Colored as well as a White World, -more so, because we Colored Peoples makeup two-thirds of the world population. On this your birthday, we pledge to you that we will continue this fight until everyone everywhere recognizes these facts of life, these facts of Our World, and behaves accordingly. It must be a gratifying and marvellous feeling for you to count the years you have given to this fight, given so bravely and so effectively. If we all follow in your fine tradition, it will be won very soon, so that you can savor and enjoy the victory. With affectionate respect, Eslanda Goode Robeson Mrs. Paul Robeson. (Cardzo, to you!) PAUL ROBESON October 6, 1953 Mary Church Terrell Luncheon Committee 207 Florida Avenue, N. W. Washington, D. C. For Dr. Mary Church Terrell The history of our people is filled with the noble leadership and deeds of its daughters. As on reared in the great traditions of the A.M.E. Zion Church, I recall Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Truth and Frederick Douglass - the latter a well-known fried of her, whom we honor. Certainly no one in our contemporary life more exemplifies our courage, our integrity, our militant demands for full citizenship and full freedom. In these trying days we are all privileged that Dr. Mary church Terrell guides us and inspires us. My deepest admirative affection and thanks to the finest of whom America can boast. Sincerely, Paul Robeson 115 1825 New Hampshire Ave. N.W. #514 Washington, DC October 7, 1953 Dear Mrs. Terrell; I want to extend to you my heartfelt greetings on the occasion of your ninetieth birthday. You have lived a great life, devoted to making a better world for all. And I know that you will continue to work for equality and justice and achieve many more victories. You have always been an inspiration to me- I always think of you with our beloved Susan B, Anthony with whom I worked as a young woman in Rochester. I look forward to continuing our cooperative efforts for many years. May you have many more birthdays! Cordially, Gertrude Evans OBERLIN COLLEGE OBERLIN, OHIO OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT October 7, 1953 Mrs. Mary Church terrell, 1615 S Street, N. W., Washington D.C. Dear Mrs. Terrell: I regret that other commitments make it impossible for me to be present at the luncheon on Saturday to celebrate your 90th birthday anniversary. This is just a line to send you the greetings of your College and of Mrs. Stevenson and myself. With all good wishes, Ever sincerely, William E. Stevenson WES: BP EMERGENCY CIVIL LIBERTIES COMMITTEE 421 SEVENTH AVENUE, NEW YORK 1, N. Y. - OXFORD 5-2863 JOHN M. PICKERING October 7, 1953. Chairman MRS. GEORGE G. KIRSTEIN Secretary FRANKLIN REEVE Treasurer CLARK FOREMAN Director Dear Dr. Terrell, I wish I could be there in person on Saturday to add my voice to the tribute you so richly deserve. Since Mrs. Foreman and I will not be able to attend the luncheon we join in sending you affection and congratulations. I hope that those who honor you on Saturday will be inspired by your continued courage to emulate it in their own daily lives. It is fine to pay tribute to your noble example but it will be even better if those who appreciate the kind of fight you have made, will go and do likewise. Affectionately, Clark Foreman Clark Foreman The National Housewives' League of America, Inc. Object: To raise the economic status of the Negro through directed spending. Organized 1933. PRESIDENT FINANCIAL SECRETARY Mrs. Christina M. Fuqua October 7, 1953 Mrs. Ella M. Martin 5300 McKinley, Detroit 8, Michigan 879 Harrison Ave., Boston 18, Mass. Mrs. Mary Church Terrell Presidential Room Hotel Statler Washington, D.C. Dear Mrs. Terrell, The outstanding achievements of men and women of the United States have made this country the greatest contributor to the advancement of civilization. You are one of these personalities. The largest part of your life has been dedicated to the service of mankind, and to helping to make the United States of America the Democracy which it is known to be, by attaining for the Least recognized group of its population many privileges of which it was denied. In these latter years of your life you have not slackened in your determination to bring the Negro freedom from discrimination, provided by "a forgotten law." This was not done just for the Negro, but that these United States founded on the principle of "Liberty and Justice for all" might truly lead the world in its quest of freed for all its people. Your high ideals, your regard for law, your love for your country and your determination to help it overcome its weaknesses certainly have won the admiration, respect, love and appreciation of the citizens of this country. The National Housewives' League of America, Inc. joins with the thousands of others in congratulating and honoring you for such unselfish service. May you be blessed with continued health and strength, and may your life ever inspire others to seek truth and justice and to believe as you have believed that "The Angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear him and delivereth them": Very respectfully yours, Josephine M. Smith Corresponding Secretary. Christina M. Fuqua President National Housewives' League of America, Inc. 913 N. 15th St. Lafayette. Ind. October 7, 1953. To the Mary Terrell Luncheon Committee: I do so appreciate the wonderful invitation for a very wonderful woman.It would be wonderful tp be present in person,however that is impossible. I wish for Mrs T errell a very happy birthday, for she has done much to deserve all the happiness that can possibly come to her. Sincerely, Millie D. Hoffman. Mary McLeod Bethune Foundation Incorporated TELEPHONE 2-3519 631 Pearl Street Daytona Beach, Florida October 7, 1953 OFFICERS AND TRUSTEES Mary McLeod Bethune, President Roy S. McWilliams, Vice-President Julius Davidson, Treasurer Paul W. Harvey, Legal Advisor Maxwell W. Saxon, Curator Bertha L. Mitchell, Secretary Albert M. Bethune, Sr., Marjorie S. Joyner Richard V. Moore John Sengstacke Mrs. Mary Church Terrell 207 Florida Avenue, N. W. Washington 1, D. C. My dear Mary Church Terrell: I'm so happy to join the fine people of America and the world in congratulating you on your 90th birthday, and extending to you our gratitude for the wonderful leadership you have given in the field of human rights. The work that you have done, the battles that you have fought, and won will forever stand as a monument your faith your courage, and your human understanding. It is beautiful for you to look back over the years and see what God has done through you for the betterment of mankind. You have been a valiant leader. Your life will stand out as an example to those who will follow after you. The women of America and the world will know you, only to love you, and call you blessed. May many, many years be granted you yet, to carry on. Yours Sincerely, Mary McLeod Bethune. Mary McLeod Bethune. /gm ADVISORY COMMITTEE Roger W. Babson Roger Baldwin Judson Bemis Albert M. Bethune, Jr. Mrs. Geneva Brazley Mrs. Jeanetta Welch Brown John C. Brown Dr. Ralph Bunche James Carey Atty. Eunice Hunton Cardon Mrs. Regina Chandler Oscar Chapman Mrs. Charlotte Ford Clark Mrs. John W. Cowles Mrs. Herbert Davidson Judge Hubert Delany Mrs. Arabella Denniston George W. Engram Charles W. Francis Mrs. Sadie Mills Franklin Randolph M. Gallon Mrs. Margaret Gibbs Mrs. Edith Goode Harry M. Griffin Dr. Edwin O. Grover Mrs. Harriett E. Hale John W. Johnson Mrs. Arenia C. Mallory Judge Burnita Shelton Matthews Fred Dana Marsh Odell Mickens Mrs. Carmen C. Murphy Mrs. Thomasina W. Norford T. Nelson O'Rourke Dr. F. D. Patterson Mrs. Fannie Ayer Ponder Mrs. Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Judge Hobson Reynolds Edward R. Rodriguez Mrs. Franklin D. Roosevelt Miss Ruth Scott Mrs. Florence L. Small Bernard W. Smith W. S. Snead, Jr. Dr. Vada Somerville H. J. Taylor Tom Till Dr. Howard Thurman Dr. Channing H. Tobias Edward Van Poole Frederick S. Weaver Mrs. Camilla G. Webber Howard Weed T. J. Wetherell Hon. Francis P. Whitehair Aubrey Williams Mrs. Hazel T. Wilson (To be Continued) Oct 8, 1953 Dr. Mrs. Terrell: I should like to express sincerest congratulations on your ninetieth birthday. Our short acquaintance has been an inspiration to me as a woman, a mother and a worker for Peace and Equality. Many happy returns of the day. Sincerely, Mrs. Ethel Weichbrod residence 8321 Tahoma Dr. Silver Spring, Md. BUREAU OF THE PUBLIC DEBT OFFICE OF REGISTER OF THE TREASURY TREASURY DEPARTMENT FISCAL SERVICE WASHINGTON October 8, 1953 Mary Church Terrell Luncheon Committee 207 Florida Avenue, N.W. Washington 1, D.C. Ladies and Gentlemen: This is in grateful acknowledgment of your kind invitation to attend testimonial Luncheon in honor of Miss Mary Church Terrell, and it grieves me greatly to be unable to attend, but am committed and have made plans and reservations to leave the City for Savannah, this evening and will not return until Monday morning. I am however, inclosing a check for one reservation with the instructions that you will please see that some deserving person, who may for financial reasons be unable to attend, receives it. Trusting that the testimonial will be a grand success and assuring you that in my opinion, none is more deserving of this Honor than Miss Terrell. I am, Sincerely yours, Louis B. Toomer Register of the Treasury 4223 Enright Avenue St. Louis, Missouri October 8, 1953 CONGRATULATIONS AND APPRECIATION Dr. Mary Church Terrell on her 90th Birthday Anniversary Celebration From Mrs. Ernest C. Grady National Chairman Public Affairs Dear Dr. Terrell: Your noble examples stir us to noble action and the very history of large public spirited souls, inspire us with generous thoughts. I have known Dr. Mary Church Terrell over a long period of years, and the small part of her life I have had the privilege to observe has been a story of a succession of miracles of Christian virtues of good will, good deeds and interracial justice. The accumulation of her myriads of day to day contacts, to promote the creation of a better spirit, the correction of grievances, the promotion of interracial understanding and good will, would form a mighty river of social justice. Not to know the history of the colorful life of Dr. Mary Church Terrell is to confess one's self illiterate. It is more interesting than most of the tales which come from the daily press - always they impart the conscionsness of the Fatherhood of God, the Brotherhood of man, and the oneness of the human family. It is easy to see that great conquests are won by the trumpets of truth and the torches of intelligence rather than by weapons of distruction. There is no denying the fact that God's chief reliance on earth is always in the individual and no one can tell when the call may come to him, if he has kept himself fit. Every life is measured by the power that, that individual has to make the world better - that is all life is. In closing I will quote Emerson - "Around the man who seeks a noble end, Not angels, but divinities attend." Eternally yours in, "Lifting As We Climb," Beatrice M. Grady Beatrice M. Grady, (Mrs. Ernest C. Grady, National Chairman of Public Affairs Foot note: I first met you in 1901 when you visited Sumner High School. I was a senior - and asked you to say something and you responded - Then that evening Mrs. Maydee Campbell brought you to see Mrs. Edward D. Williams, who was an invalid. I saw you again - you had a physical intellectual and a spiritual beauty that I never forgot - you can't beat those three attributes. October 8, 1953 To Mrs. Mary Church Terrell: Whose brilliance and wisdom led her early in a full life to high places; But whose determined devotion to her people and to democracy for all peoples was never dimmed by personal success; Whose magnificent energy has always been devoted to building the best in America and the world no matter how great the odds against her or how threatening the opposition; To a great American lady the Rosenberg-Sobell Committee of Washington expresses gratitude and congratulations on her ninetieth birthday. John B. Stone John B. Stone Chairman Residence 2901 18th St. N.W. Washington, D.C. A simple greeting, short and snappy to hope your Birthday will be Very Happy Mrs. Elizabeth A. Kidd Past Cor. Secretary Empire State Federation of Women's Clubs 108-22-35 Ane Carona 68, N.Y. [ca 10-9-53] Just two words, "Happy Birthday," with enough good wishes for your happiness to fil a book DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, EDUCATION, AND WELFARE OFFICE OF EDUCATION WASHINGTON 25, D. C. October 9, 1953 Mrs. Mary Church Terrell 1615 "S" Street, NW. Washington, D. C. Dear Mrs. Terrell: Rose and I deeply regret that we are unable to secure reservations for your luncheon. However, we did not want that occasion to pass without letting you know how much we appreciate you and your endeavors in behalf of the people of Washington, the nation, and the world. The movement which you have spearheaded is a link in a mighty chain that stretches around the world and binds all mankind into a great human family. May you live another ninety years in order that you may see and enjoy the full fruition of your efforts. Sincerely yours, Rosalie Caliver Ambrose Caliver Rosalie and Rose Caliver Oct 9, 1953. Dear Mrs. Terrell:- It gives me real pleasure to send you this "convertible" birthday gift- it is for you- not for the fund for I am sending another one there- so please let this check do something for you- you, you -(in the words of the popular song. I am sorry not to be able to attend the luncheon tomorrow With affectionate regards and best wishes to you always. Helen W. Wilson NINETEENTH STREET BAPTIST CHURCH 19TH AND EYE STREETS, N. W. WASHINGTON, D. C. October 9, 1953 Mrs. Mary Church Terrell 1615 S Street, N. W. Washington, D.C. Dear Mrs. Terrell, The Pastor, Officers and Members of the Nineteenth Street Baptist Church are happy to extend their felicitations to you on this your ninetieth birthday. This is a memorable occasion and we feel sure it will be treasured in the hearts of many. Truly God has blessed you with many years. You have given them in service to others and God has caused His face to shine upon you. Your concern and love for others will be an inspiration to those who follow after you. Your pioneering spirit will go down in the history of our race as a beacon of light. We wish you many more years of blessed fellowship and may God bestow richer blessing upon you and your loved ones. Yours for the Church, Jerry A. Moore Rev. Jerry A. Moore, Pastor Etta L Booker Etta L. Booker, Clerk [*REV. JERRY A. MOORE, MINISTER 1222 QUINCY ST., N. W. TUCKERMAN 3127 CHURCH STUDY - REPUBLIC 8031 GEORGE W. BEASLEY CHAIRMAN DEACON BOARD 926 T STREET, N. W. WM. A. RYLES, SEC'Y 1262 COLUMBIA ROAD, N. W. MRS. ETTA L. BOOKER, CLERK 435 S STREET, N. W. DUPONT 1076 WILLIAM I. LEE CHR. TRUSTEE BD. 1624 S STREET, N. W. WALTER A. JACKSON, SEC'Y 2300 E STREET, N. E.*] [10-9-53] CONGRATULATIONS by WESTERN UNION .NA314 CGN NL PD=UN NEW YORK NY 9= MRS MARY CHURCH TERRELL= 1615 S ST NW WASHDC= WARM GREETINGS ON THIS EVENTFUL OCCASION AND CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR LONG LIFE OF DEDICATED SERVICE= RALPH BUNCHE=.. [10-9-53] BIRTHDAY GREETINGS by WESTERN UNION SA301 KB303 K.LLK259 BDA NL PD=KANSAS CITY KANS 9= 1953 OCT 9 PM 5 10 DR. MARY CHURCH TERRELL= 1615 S ST NORTHWEST WASHDC= THIS SPECIAL MESSAGE IS TO A VERY SPECIAL PESON DR MARY CHURCH TERRELL MY CONGRATULATIONS AND BEST WISHES ON THIS VERY SPECIAL DAY YOUR 90TH BIRTHDAY MAY YOU LIVE LONG TO ENJOY MANY MORE LOVE= SUSIE V BOULDIN 611 PARALLEL AVENUE=.. [*1953 OCT 9 PM 5 10*] [10-9-53] BIRTHDAY GREETINGS (42)... by WESTERN UNION W.LDG172 BDANL PD=WASHINGTON DC 9= DR MARY CHURCH TERRELL= 1615 S ST NORTHWEST WASHDC= CONGRATULATIONS AND OEST WISHES ON YOUR 90TH BIRTHDAY ON THIS AUSPICIOUS OCCASION WE WELCOME THE OPPORTUNITY TO PAY HOMAGE TO YOU FOR HAVING DONE MORE THAN YOUR SHARE TOWARD MAKING THE DISTRICT A BETTER PLACE IN WHICH TO LIVE CIVICS BETTERMENT ASSOCIATION PLEDGES ITS USUAL SUPPOT IN YOUR FUTURE PROGRAM= FRANKLIN H TINSLEY PRESIDENT= [*1953 OCT 9 PM 10 43*] MRS. SOLON J. BUCK 321 A STREET, S. E. WASHINGTON 3, D. C. October 10, 1953 My dear Mrs. Terrell: I have just come home from the luncheon in your honor at the Statler, and I want to say how much I enjoyed it and how fitting I thought it was that you should be so honored. Mr. Buch charged me to tell you that he was sorry that another engagement prevented his attendance - however, with 700 people there I thought it better to come home and write you this note. I went to the luncheon with Miss Flory of the Washington Branch of the AAUW and saw several fellow members there. With best wishes for your continued health and happiness I am Sincerely yours Elizabeth H. Buck [10-10-53] (22).. BIRTHDAY GREETINGS by WESTERN UNION LDG046 BDA PD=WASHINGTON DC 10 1247P ME DR MARY CHURCH TERRELL= STATLER HOTEL WASHDC= CONGRATULATIONS TO A GRAND LADY. A PRIOR ENGAGEMENT PREVENTS OUR ATTENDING. HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU= PRESIDENT AND MRS MATTHEW J WHITEHEAD MINER TEACHERS COLLEGE= [*1953 OCT 10 PM 1 28*] [10-10-53] BIRTHDA (34) REETINGS by WESTERN UNION AA227 1953 Oct 10 P[?] 2 40 A.WPA163 BDA PD=WEST PALM BEACH FLO 10 215PME= DR MARY CHURCH TERRELL= CARE HOTEL STATLER WASHDC= THE SWANS SOCIAL CLUB OF WEST PALM BEACH WISH YOU A HAPPY BIRTHDAY= MRS HENRIETTA SCRUGGS PRES= [10-10-53] BIRTHDAY GREETINGS by WESTERN UNION LDG041 CGN PD=WASHINGTON DC 10 1208PME= MARY CHURCH TERRELL= HOTEL STATLER WASHDC= THE FORT DUPONT CIVIC ASSOCIATION GRATEFULLY ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR INVALUABLE SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY. YOUR ACHIEVEMENT WILL INSPIRE OUR EFFORTS CARRY OUT YOUR WORK= J FRANKLIN BOURNE PRESIDENT FORT DUPONT CIVIC ASSOCIATION= [*1953 OCT 10 PM 1 07*] [*Suspected duplicate*] [10-10-53] (28).. CONGRATULATIONS by WESTERN UNION 1953 OCT 10 PM 2 34 .PA558 P.EPA024 BDAPD=CENTREVILLE MD 10 1202PME= DR MARY CHURCH TERRELL, PRESIDENTIAL ROOM= HOTEL STATLER WASHDC= ITS BIRTHDAY TIME FOR YOU TODAY AND MAY EACH HOUR HOLD A LOT OF GRAND NEW PLEASURES TO ADD TO THE OLD. CONGRATULATIONS= CAR KEN TAL QUE CLUB EVELYN H BENSTON PRESIDENT= WESTERN UNION W. P. MARSHALL, ORESIDENT 1953 OCT 10 AM 7 37 PA 127 DUPLICATE OF TELEPHONED TELEGRAM P.LLC265 PD=PHILADELPHIA PENN 10 725 AME MRS PHYLLIS TERRELL LANGSTON 1615 S ST NORTHWEST WASHDC SORRY IM UNABLE TO MAKE IT MAYBE SOMEONE ELSE COULD USE THE RESERVATION GIVE MY CONGRATULATIONS TO COUSIN MOLLIE ON HER 90TH BIRTHDAY AND ON HER HISTORICAL ACCOMPLISHMENT= DOROTHY Du 7 8206 Bankers Fire Insurance Company Durham, North Carolina Monroe Insurance Agency 215 Tea Street, N. W. Washington 1, D. C. North 2282 October 10, 1953 Dr. Mary Church Terrell 1615 S Street, N. W. Washington 9, D.C. My dear Dr. Terrell: It was a source of gratification and pleasure to me to read the editorial, Valuable Citizen, in the Washington Post of September 23, 1953. It was a fine tribute by a great newspaper to a great American. Inasmuch as the sentiment contained therein, is also mine, I am writing to wish you God speed in all your endeavors. Only a person who has been touch by the hand of God could have carried on over the years to reach the height of unselfish achievements for humanity as you have done so well. May God bless, comfort and continue to guide, and give you the strength to carry on for many more years. I regret exceedingly that I applied too late for reservation to your luncheon today, but my heart is there with you. Sincerely yours, Dan Monroe Dan Monroe DM:lml National Association of Colored Women, Inc. Affiliated with the National Council of Women U.S.A., Inc. and International Council of Women in the World. Maintains Frederick Douglass Memorial Home and Property. Established National Scholarship Fund and National Headquarters. 1114 O Street, N.W. Washington 5, D. C. Phone Decator 8160 Organized 1896 Incorporated 1904 Office of the President Irene McCoy Gaines 4534 Woodlawn Avenue Chicago 15, Illinois October 10, 1953 Dr. Mary Church Terrell, c/o Committee for the Mary Church Terrell Celebration 207 Florida Avenue, Northwest, Washington, D.C. Dear Lady Terrell: To us of the National Association of Colored Women, Inc., you will always be our "first Lady". The history of our beloved organization begins with your administration as our first president. From those early days until now your fine leadership, brilliant mind, unsurpassed courage and militant efforts in behalf of the race have endeared you to all loyal Americans and all are your debtors. We therefore join with your legion of friends in other organizations in paying tribute to you on this your 90th birthday. We know that this for you will be a very happy occasion. We want you to know that life has been happier for all of us because of you. Congratulations and love. Sincerely in Lifting As We Climb, National Association of Colored Women, Inc., Irene McCoy Gaines Irene McCoy Gaines, President American Veterans Committee Incorporated National Offices 1751 New Hampshire Avenue, N.W. Washington 9, D.C. North 7-0581 To Achieve a More Democratic and Prosperous America and a More Stable World "Citizens First, Veterans Second" Andrew E. Rice Executive Director Curtis Campaigne, Jr. Chairman Arthur Berstein Vice-Chairman National Planning Committee George T. Bogert Charles G. Bolte John Clay Joseph A. Clorety, Jr. Arnold L. Fein John R. Fernback Robert Gordon Gilbert A. Harrison E. J. Kahn, Jr. Erwin Klaus Robert L. Krachevsky Robert Lau Wadsworth Likely Bill Mauldin W. Robert Ming Robert R. Nathan Chat Paterson Lester H. Persells William Pfaff Andrew E. Rice Murray J. Shainis Michael Straight Gus Tyler Honorary Members Dr. Ralph J. Bunche Nelson Rockefeller Mrs. Eleanor Roosevelt The Most Rev. Bernard J. Sheil Phineas Indritz National Counsel Joseph A. Clorety, Jr. National Secretary Philip T. Allen National Treasurer Hal Silvers Membership Secretary October 10, 1953 Mrs. Mary Church Terrell Washington, D.C. Dear Mrs. Terrell: On this happy anniversary, the American Veterans Committee is proud to join in saluting a great American. As citizens and as veterans we hail you as a noble warrior in the continuing battle for justice for all. AVC is deeply honored to have had the privilege of working with you. Cordially, Curtis Campaigne, Jr Curtis Campaigne, Jr. National Chairman Tenth Anniversary Convention December 4th, 5th, 6th, 1953 Atlantic City, N. J. AVC National Corporate Offices: R-2000, 15 William Street, New York 5, N. Y. Affiliated with the World Veterans Federation General Federation of Women's Clubs 1734 N Street, Northwest Washington, D.C. G.F.W.C Unity In Diversity Mrs. Oscar A. Ahlgren President October 10, 1953 Dear Mrs. Terrell: My warmest congratulations on your 90th birthday. For many years your service to your community, the nation and to the Negro people has been an inspiration to federated club women. It is my personal belief that you have contributed greatly to the American heritage by achieving recognition of the fact that the rights, privileges and responsibilities of citizenship bear equally on all Americans regardless of color or sex. Throughout your lifetime you have illustrated that freedom is not a gift but a treasure to be won through patience, perseverance, education and re-education. Young people of both races cannot help but profit by the example you have set. Very sincerely yours, Mildred Ahlgren Mrs. Oscar A. Ahlgren President Mrs. Mary Church Terrell Washington, D. C. [10-10-53] BIRTHDAY GREETINGS by WESTERN UNION ..WZ0 17 BDA PD=PLAINFIELD NJER 10 80 1AME: =DR MARY CHURCH TERRELL= 1615 S ST NORTHWEST: =CONGRATULATIONS FOR YOUR BIRTHDAY MAY IT BE ONLY ONE OF MANY MORE TO MARK YOUR SPLENDID WORK= MARY AND CARL WOLFE= [10-10-53] BIRTHDAY GREETINGS by WESTERN UNION LDC008 PD TDW LANHAM MD OCT 10 1953 135AME DR MARY CHURCH TERRELL 1615 S ST NORTHWEST WASHDC BELATED CONGRATULATIONS TO A GRAND LADY FOR HER 90TH BIRTHDAY MAY YOUR IDEALS LIVE FOREVER YOU LENT THE BEAUTY OF A FLOWER AT THE PARTY LAST NIGHT SINCERELY BESSIE PINNER AND MRS BESSIE STEVENSON 210AME [10-10-53] BIRTHDAY GREETINGS by WESTERN UNION .WZ005 BDA PD=PHILADELPHIA PENN 10 733AME= =MRS MARY CHURCH TERRELL= 1615 S ST NORTHWEST= SINCEREST CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR 90TH BIRTHDAY AND ON YOUR HISTORIC ACCOMPLISHMENT SORRY I COULD NOT KEEP MY PLAN TO BE PRESENT BUT WISH TO ADD MY WORD OF PRAISE TO THE THRONGS TO HONOR YOU TODAY= DOROTHY= [10-11-53] CONGRATULATIONS by WESTERN UNION WP061 RX CGN PD LONG=PHILADELPHIA PENN 11 543PME= =DR MARY CHURCH TERRELL, DLR IMMY INSPIRATION HOUSE= 1867 KALARMA RD NORTHWEST WASHDC= DEAREST DR TERRELL. HEARTIEST CONGRATULATIONS TO YOU ON YOUR BIRTHDAY OF YESTERDAY AND THE HONORS OF TODAY TOO MANY HONORS ARE NOT ENOUGH FOR THE ONE WHO HAS MADE THIS WORLD A BETTER PLACE IN WHICH TO LIVE MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND KEEP YOU AND YOUR COMMITTEE AND SPARE YOU FOR CONTINUED SERVICE TO AMERICAN DEMOCRACY MY ONLY REASON FOR NOT ATTENDING SATURDAY AND TODAY IS THAT I AM IN PHILADELPHIA WITH MY MOTHER WHO IS NOT TOO WELL SINCERELY= VIOLA H SMITH (MRS EMORY B SMITH)= [10-12-53] BIRTHDAY GREETINGS by WESTERN UNION WZ008 N= PD VIA VT MVD=ATLANTA GA OCT 11 MRS MARY CHURCH TERRELL= 1615 S ST NORTH WEST= CONGRATULATIONS FOR YOUR BIRTHDAY MAY IT BE ONLY ONE OF MANY MORE TO MARK YOUR SPLENDID WORK= MRS DOLLY J ALEXANDER 171 ASHBY ST= [10-12-53] BIRTHDAY GREETINGS by WESTERN UNION .WZ038 BDA PA VIA TA NREG=OKEECHOBEE FLO OCT 10 1131AME= MRS MARY CHURCH TERRELL= 16 15 S ST NORTH WEST= LOVE AND BESET WISHES FOR A HAPPY BIRTHDAY= FEDERATED CLUB PEARL BUTLER= [10-12-53] WESTERN UNION W. P. MARSHALL, PRESIDENT (28).. 1953 OCT 12 PM 12 31 WZ037 CTN PD VIA TA NREG=WASHINGTON DC OCT 10 1208PME= MARY CHURCH TERRELL= 16 15 S ST NORTHWEST= THE FORT DUPONT CIVIC ASSOCIATION GRATEFULLY ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR INVALUABLE SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY. YOUR ACHIEVEMENT WILL INSPIRE OUR EFFORTS CARRY OUT YOUR WORK= J FRANKLIN BOURNE PRESIDENT FORT DUPONT CIVIC ASSN= [10-12-53] WESTERN UNION W. P. MARSHALL, PRESIDENT (32).. 1953 OCT 12 PM 12 34 WZ041 PD VIA TA NREG=WILBERFORCE OHIO OCT 10 1200PME= =DR MARY CHURCH TERRELL= 16 15 S ST NORTH WEST= CONGRATULATIONS AND BEST WISHES REGRET WE CANNOT BE WITH YOU TO CELEBRATE. YOUR ILLUSTRIOUS CAREER SPEAKS FOR ITSELF AND WE ARE AMONG THE THOUSANDS WHO ARE SO PROUD OF YOU TODAY= LOUISE AND CHARLES WESLEY= Sincerely and fondly, Jessie F. Thompkins 1715 Varnum St. N. W. Oct. 12, '53 Dear Mrs. Terrell, It may seem that this card is being sent to urge you to do the things that F. Collis Wildman advises under the heading "Remember this." Such, however, is not the reason-but rather to compliment you for having had the desire, the wisdom, and the courage to do those things all thru your years. (Maybe with the exception of the little word "Damn"). I realize, regretfully, that it is too late to wish you a happy birthday on it's ninetieth anniversary. But I do wish to add my congratulations to the myriads already received. And I do rejoice with you for the wonderful and well-deserved tributes tendered you on the occasion. May you have many happy returns of the day. 25K351 KEATING PHILADELPHIA Remember This Be good, but not too good - a little naughty, but not too naughty. Say a prayer if you feel that way, say Damn if it gives you consolation. Be kind to the world always, if possible - yet if you must be unkind, smash right and left, get it over and forget it. Smile, always smile, have a smile ready even though sometimes it hurts. Grab all the happiness you can - wherever and whenever you can - don't let even a wee bit slip past you. Live, above all things live, don't simply exist. If you are blessed enough to know what real love is - love with all your heart, soul and body. Live your life so that at any hour you will be able to shake hands with yourself and try to accomplish at least one thing worth while each day. Then when your nights come you will be able to pull up the covers and say to yourself - "I have done my best." F. COLLIS WILDMAN COPR 1926 A. C. McCurg & Co. SINCE 1844 WHOLESALE 333 E. Ontario St. Chicago 11, Ill. October 13, 1953 RUSH M.C.Terrill 1615 S. St. NW Washington 9, D.C. Gentlemen: Please refer to our order mailed to you on August 7, number SL1371 calling for one copy of...Terrill-Coloured Woman IN White World 2.50 '42 To date, we have not received the above book from you, or a report state your inability to make shipment. May we have an immediate reply at the bottom of this letter? Your cooperation will be appreciated. Your very truly, Mrs Ruth E Ward Book Special Order Dep. A.C.McClurg & Co. REW BOOKS STATIONERY OFFICE SUPPLIES SCHOOL SUPPLIES P ARTY GOODS GREETING CARDS HOLIDAY GOODS GIFTS HOUSEWARES DINNERWARE GLASSWARE DRUG SUNDRIES BABY GIFTS EASTER GOODS VALENTINES SPORTING GOODS ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES LEATHER GOODS DECORATIONS DOLLS GAMES TOYS 443 1775 California Street, NW Washington, 9, D. C. October 13, 1953 My dear Mrs. Terrell: Sharing your birthday luncheon was like attending a wonderful party where everyone was gay and happy, and very much in love with the honored guest. As I sat and looked at you, I was filled with the sincerest desire that I may make my own life one of useful service to the community and to my fellow human beings. I do wish that I could become your "Anna Stein", and if there is any way I can be of service to you, please call upon me. In sincere gratitude for the inspiration of your wonderful life, I am, Faithfully yours, Patsy Graves Patsy Graves Administrative Assistant to Mrs. Jane Spaulding Mrs. Mary Church Terrell 1615 S Street, NW Washington, D. C. NEW YORK Herald Tribune A European Edition is Published Daily in Paris Pennsylvania 6-4000 230 West 41st Street, New York 18 October 13, 1953 Dear Mrs. Terrell I have just learned by accident that you are having a ninetieth birthday. It doesn't seem possible. And yet, when I calculate, it was thirty- six years ago that Jane Adams sent me on the lone-male mission to Zurich on which I first met you, and you had a full career behind you the. That was a wonderful opportunity for a young man - what a group of women it was! And you stood out among them. So I wanted to add my word of congratulations to all the others you must be receiving. May the next decade be the finest. Cordially, Lewis Gannett 20 South 12th Street, Philadelphia 7, Pa. October 13, 1953 Dear Friend: May I introduce you to Kora Padhy? He is a tall serious man with a nice smile. He is an Indian village worker on our Quaker team in the State of Orissa, India, and lives in the quiet little community of Barla Bahal. Kora Padhy is a Brahmin by caste, but has freed himself from the rigid caste rules. For example, he will eat eggs which is forbidden to the orthodox and, of particular importance to our project, he will work with lower caste folk. Manual work doesn't come easy to him because of his background, but he has worked faithfully at setting up "housekeeping" in the one-room mud hut which the village provided for him. There is no "guantia" or hereditary headman in this village of seventy families. There is a "sanyasi" or holy man (self-styled) who is really a sort of quack doctor earning his living that way. Being the only iterate person in Barla Bahal, he also does any reading or writing that is needed. Kora Padhy has not become a key person in the community. In spite of being an "outsider" he has been accepted, and the villagers have been glad to learn better ways of living. With the help of other members of the Quaker team in the area, Kora Padhy has started an Adult School for those wanting to learn to read and write, provides a personal example of better methods of sanitation, and has worked with the villagers to establish a Cooperative Poultry Farm. This is the real-life story of what "social and technical assistance" means in one small village in India. If funds are available, the Service Committee's program will expand beyond the twenty villages now included in the project. Your contribution today will help us to put village workers in other communities. Sincerely yours, Lewis M. Hoskins Lewis M. Hoskins Executive Secretary AMERICAN FRIENDS SERVICE COMMITTEE Social and Technical Assistance AMERICAN FRIENDS SERVICE COMMITTEE Uncontaminated drinking water is the starting point for many aspects of the good life. India is working to increase the supply, availability and purity of water, by drilling tube wells in rural areas. Many acres of unproductive land will be brought into cultivation through various engineering schemes. Only Indians themselves, with the sensitive help of their friends, can make the most of all the prospects opened up through this promised increased food supply. IN INDIA The Hirakud Dam, in the state of Orissa is being built by the Indian government. It is bringing profound changes in the day-to-day routine of thousands of villagers for miles around. In Barpali, population 5,000, one of the villages which will be affected by the great dam, the American Friends Service Committee has established headquarters for a 10-year program. Twenty villages are now touched by the program and it is expected that 40 or more will be included in the AFSC work. The international team includes an administrator, an agriculturalist, a worker in village crafts and cooperative, two doctors, a rural sociologist, a village participation worker, a mechanic and a secretary. Each technician has or will have an Indian co-worker who will be able to carry on the work when the Quaker team withdraws. In addition, village workers are selected for their abilities, character and spirit. These, whose homes are in Orissa, will attend intensive training courses conducted by the technicians, then will work directly with villagers sharing knowledge and skills them and encouraging self-help. In the village of Rasulia, in Madhya Pradesh (Central Provinces) British Friends have for many years carried on village work, centered in a farm of 40 acres. They also sponsor with the local government, an 85-bed hospital. An elementary school and a consumer cooperative are included in the British Friends' work. The ASFC is making it possible to extend the outreach of this work to 25 surrounding villages. The size of the demonstration farm has been nearly doubled and rural extension service added. A small model dairy has been built and better stock introduced to improve the local quality. It is expected that a milk cooperative and a more wholesome local milk supply will develop from this demonstration dairy. On the veranda of the Quaker workers' dwelling in Barpali, in Orissa, one of the Western team members conducts a clinic for women and children. FOUNDATION FOR PEACE American Friends Service Committee work in social and technical assistance grows out of its fundamental concern for peace. In this work in India, Italy, Mexico, Israel and El Salvador the Committee seeks to reach the roots of conflict instead of waiting to heal the suffering, repair the damage and breach the difference created by war. In helping people improve their economic well- being at the basic level, an agency as small as the AFSC would not be useful were it not that large-scale development is being undertaken by international and national agencies. We have been encouraged to use our experience in pilot activities. Our work is with village people. We have sought methods which can be emulated in existing local circumstances. Cooperation exists with local, national and international agencies. Since improvement must be many-sided at one time, in India, Israel, Mexico and El Salvador we are using agriculturalists, public health workers, educators and community and recreation workers. In Italy the Committee's social assistance is given through Italian agency, the Union for the Struggle Against Illiteracy which has an all-around village improvement program in southern Italy. This work is undertaken in the firm belief in the fundamental worth of individuals and their ability to find their own best methods and solutions. We realize the harm that can result from methods, ill chosen or superimposed. In Tur'an in Israel, about 8 miles from NAzareth in a concentration of Arabs in the Jewish state, a Quaker agriculturalist and a health education and welfare worker, combine their efforts with those of local villagers to improve living conditions. These workers are expected to be augmented in 1953 by others, both Western and local, who will expand the present program to train Arab farmers to operate and maintain modern farm machinery. This activity looks forward to a farming cooperative, for the ownership, use and maintenance of machinery and the marketing of products. In nearly every part of India, scarcity of water has contributed to the difficulties of daily living and to the prevalence of disease. Here is a baby-bathing demonstration, with some resistance on the part of the little one getting a shower. In Italy the AFSC gives help to the Union for the Struggle Against Illiteracy (UNLA), a major social and technical endeavor of the Italians to improve living in the southern area. This picture shows night school students at Savoia di Lucania. Some 300 pupils are enrolled. Classes include reading and writing, discussions of current events, lectures on simple health habits and local possibilities for improving them. Friends Service Units have been working in villages in Mexico since 1939. Quaker workers since 1951 have been a part of a Pilot Project in Basic Education of the Mexican Government patterned along lines suggested by UNESCO in Nayarit. Similar work has been undertaken in El Salvador where a rural demonstration project has been initiated by United Nations agencies and the national government, in the San Andres Valley. The American Friends Service Committee was founded in 1917. It undertook extensive relief and reconstruction work in Europe during and after the first world war. Since then it has carried into action through relief and many other programs, Friends' belief that men of all nationalities and colors and religious persuasion can live peacefully together. This work has taken it into more than 20 countries around the world. The Committee now works in 12 countries besides the United States. Its activities draw in thousands, as individuals, in large and small groups, at local, national and international levels. Contributions from those who share the Committee's aims make this work possible. The Committee's total cash budget for the year ending September 30, 1953 is $3,500,000. Continued support will make it possible to raise this budget to carry on the programs described in this leaflet and others which the Committee has undertaken. Checks may be made payable to: AMERICAN FRIENDS SERVICE COMMITTEE, Incorporated Twenty South Twelfth Street, Philadelphia 7, Pennsylvania PHILADELPHIA COTILLION SOCIETY FOURTEEN SIXTEEN NORTH BROAD STREET PHILADELPHIA 21, PENNSYLVANIA CHAIRMAN THE HON. HERBERT E. MILLEN EX-OFFICIIS MISS MARIAN ANDERSON THE HON. WILLIAM H. HASTIE EUGENE WAYMAN JONES Executive Director October 14, 1953 Dear Dr. Terrell: We are proud and honored that you have accepted our invitation to receive that Philadelphia Citizens Award---the Diamond Cross of Malta---at ceremonies in Convention Hall here on December 30, 1953. It is in view of your long and distinguished career in the struggle for the preservation of human rights and the defense of the essential integrity and dignity of mankind that he award is being tendered. In addition to the citation and the Diamond Cross, we are presenting to the education defense fund of the NAACP, the sum of $1,000.00 in your name. This fund is being contributed by the civic and social organizations of Philadelphia. Under separate cover, we are posting the program of last year's event, together with other pertinent materials. As soon as it is convenient for you to so do, we would appreciate your sending to us the biographical materials which we discussed, and very importantly, your photograph. Our sincerest and best wishes to you. Very truly yours, Eugene Wayman Jones Eugene Wayman Jones Dr. Mary Church Terrell 1615 S Street, NW Washington, D.C. 26 Kenwood Terrace Springfield Mass. October 15, 1953 Dear Mollie, You have probably many press notices but you may like to see one from the Springfield paper. I did not find it myself, but my sister Grace (Mrs. Howard Regal) cut it out of the evening paper and sent it to me to send to you. Grace has long been interested in you and was especially delighted with you book, which she often mentions. Perhaps you think I have forgotten you, but I assure you that I haven't. I don't write so many letters as Nettie does, though I have eyes and she can see so little. I shall look for accounts of the "tribute" to mark your 90th birthday. You are the youngest of us three. I had my 90th birthday last winter celebrating it with a bad case of grippe which has taken a good while to get over. I am living in the family of the youngest step-son of my niece Margaret Marshall. That may sound very strange to you, but it is the best arrangement we would make. The family consists of John (of whom Margaret is very fond), his wife and seven-year-old boy. They are very kind and count me in their family. I have not gone out evenings as much as I used to, but I do go out four days a week to the piano studio of Maurice Freedman, a former High School pupil of mine and an excellent violin player and teacher. I am teaching him to play the piano! Much 2. to my surprise he is learning to play really well and is most enthusiastic about playing Bach, Beethoven, etc. It is a great pleasure to me and I practice myself. Here I have Margaret's small piano but it is not easy to find a time to use it where there is television - which has its merits but also its disadvantages. I wonder what your Washington autumn looks like. I have never seen so much beautiful foliage before in my life. Some friends took me on a long drive Sunday and I was completely fascinated by the wealth of coloring. I pick up a handful every time I come in. I set out to tell you how glad I am of all the honors which you received. I know no one who deserves them more. I have thought many times of the delightful day which Nettie and I spent at your home. It is time to got to bed so I will say good night, with all the affection and compliments that I cannot write. Do be careful to keep well! Probably plenty of people tell you that! With admiration and love Your old friend Mary L. Regal encl in Regal 10-15-53 THE SPRINGFIELD DAILY NEWS, SPRINGFIELD, MASS., FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 1953 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ WASHINGTON WOMAN WINS NACW HONOR Washington, Oct. 9 (AP) - Negro women from all over the country tomorrow will honor Mrs. Mary Church Terrell, of Washington, for her efforts toward the opening of the capital's restaurants and theaters to Negroes. The tribute, a luncheon, will mark the 90th birthday of Mrs. Terrell, first president of the National Association of Colored Women. Speakers will include Walter White and Circuit Court Judge William Hastie, former governor of the Virgin Islands. The Supreme Court ruled in June that Washington eating place could not refuse service to any well-behaved person regardless of race. And in recent weeks, downtown movie theaters disclosed they had been admitting Negroes for some time, though under no firm policy on non-segregation. ----- Mary E. Switzer 519 North Overlook Drive Alexandria, Virginia October 15, 1953 Dear Mrs. Terrell: When I saw you on Mark Evans program the other night my heart was full and my eyes beaming with tears -- both were of gratitude for the example you have been to all of us throughout your life. I wonder if you remember back in the '20's when you were a member of the Board of W. I. L. under Jane Addams, a very green and unsophisticated secretary who came to work for you from New England. I remember those days and the wonderful experience it was to see the satisfactions to be gained from working for good causes. Much of what I have been able to achieve is directly related to that experience. I have not seen you often through the years but I have never been out of touch with you and just wanted you to know it. I so profoundly believe what you said the other night -- "We are nothing without our friends and our friends are often the unknown ones as well as the known ones." With deep admiration and deeper affection, Mary E Switzer Mrs. Mary Church Terrell 1615 S Street, N. W. Washington, D. C. Transcribed and reviewed by contributors participating in the By The People project at crowd.loc.gov.