Poetry Society of Michigan Organizational records, 1933-2003

Summary

Creator:

Poetry Society of Michigan.j

Abstract:

The records include: meeting minutes, financial records, correspondence, histories, photograph albums, scrapbooks, programs, miscellaneous, published materials, an oversized photograph, and papers of Joseph Cherwinski, a Lansing poet and librarian. The collection is ongoing.

Extent:

7.5 cubic feet (in 7 boxes, 2 Oversized volumes, 1 Oversized folder)

Language:

English

Authors:

Collection processed and finding aid created by W. Miles, 1986; students and Marian Matyn, 1999, 2004, 2024

Background

Scope and Content:

Organizational records, 1933-2003, include: meeting minutes, financial records, correspondence, histories, photograph albums, scrapbooks, programs, miscellanea, and materials relating to the presidential terms of William S. Poe, Joye S. Giroux, and Mrs. Geneva. Published materials include the works of members, other poets, newsletters, and the Peninsula Poets, 1946-2002, except for 1955-1958. Also included are the papers of Joseph Cherwinski, Lansing poet and librarian. An Oversized folder includes a professional black and white photograph of 30 Poetry Society of Michigan members seated at three tables at a black-tie dinner On the image written in white ink, Poetry Society of Michigan (PSM), Detroit Leland Hotel, October 24, 1939, Acme Photo. .The photograph measures 9.5x16.5 inches. Although the photograph has holes punched in the corners, a crease, and a rip on the central left edge taped on the back, it is still in very good condition. A related note (photocopy) identifies the photograph as probably the only one [up to 1939] taken of the complete group. Members of the speaker's table (in the background) are identified as then PSM President Muriel Jeffries Burd (in white). To her left and to the end of the table are seated: Clifford Allen (founder), Marjorie Hanhardt, Elmer Adams, and Emil Tolonen. To Burd's right and to the end of the table are seated: Dorothea York, Sidney Mason, and Jessie Wilmore Murton. The note further states that most of these poets were charter members and that additional guests attended a reception after dinner, including Anne Campbell and her husband, then editor of the Detroit News. The collection is ongoing.

Biographical / Historical:

Organizational History:

Organized in 1936, the Poetry Society of Michigan continues to actively promote the mutual interests of Michigan poets, encourage a greater understanding of the nature of poetry, and increase cooperation among poets and those interested in poetry. The Society sponsors poetry contests, works with young people to encourage them to read and write poetry, publishes Peninsula Poets, a quarterly magazine, and holds regular meetings throughout the state in the spring, summer, and fall.

Acquisition Information:

many Acc#

Arrangement:

Arrangement is alphabetical and chronological.

Subjects

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Subjects:

American poetry--Michigan.
Poets, American--Michigan.

Names:

Poetry Society of Michigan,
Cherwinski, Joseph, 1915-
Giroux, Joye S.
Poe, William S.