MERIDEL LE SUEUR:

Meridel Le Sueur was born February 22, 1900, in the small town of Murray, Iowa. When Meridel was ten years old, her mother, Marian "Mary Del" (nee Lucy) Wharton (1877-1954), left Meridel's father, William Winston Wharton, an itinerant Church of Christ minister, taking Meridel and her younger brothers Mac and William Winston II (called Winston) with her. Meridel spent the next years in Perry, Oklahoma, at the home of her grandmother, Mary Antoinette Lucy, a third-generation Puritan, pioneer, and ardent temperance worker. A feminist socialist, Marian earned her living by traveling the Chautauqua circuit and lecturing on women's issues, including education, suffrage, and birth control. In 1914 the family moved to Fort Scott, Kansas, where Marian headed the English department at People's College. There she met and (in 1917) married Arthur Le Sueur, a lawyer and committed socialist, formerly mayor of Minot, North Dakota. After anti-socialist vigilantes destroyed the college during World War I, the family fled to St. Paul, Minnesota, where they worked with the Non-Partisan League and were hosts to meetings of Wobblies, anarchists, socialists, and union organizers.

After a year studying dance and physical fitness at the American College of Physical Education in Chicago, Illinois (1916-1917), Meridel moved to New York City, where she lived in an anarchist commune with Emma Goldman and studied at the American Academy of Dramatic Art. Her brief acting career included work on the New York stage and in Hollywood, where she was a stunt woman and an extra in films such as The Perils of Pauline and Last of the Mohicans. Wearied by Hollywood's superficiality, Le Sueur decided to concentrate on her writing, which she had pursued faithfully since her late teens. By 1924 she had joined the Communist Party and she soon began publishing in labor and left-wing journals such as The Worker and New Masses. Her writing career took off in May 1927 when her short story "Persephone" was published in Dial. Le Sueur became known for her stories, essays, and reportage focusing on the suffering of the working class, mainly women, and her distinctive, lyrical style, which set her apart from most of the socialist writers of the day.

Around 1926, Le Sueur married Harry Rice. Born Yasha Rubonoff, Rice was a Russian immigrant and a Marxist labor organizer Le Sueur met in St. Paul. She and Rice had two children, Rachel (1928) and Deborah (1930). Early in the 1930s, Le Sueur and Rice divorced.

Le Sueur continued to publish prolifically throughout the late 1920s and up until the end of World War II, when the onset of the Cold War brought with it the blacklisting and harassment of those involved in the socialist movement. During the height of the so-called Red Scare, Le Sueur made her living publishing children's books, teaching writing, and holding a variety of odd jobs. In the 1960s she traveled around the country, participating in campus protests and interviewing people, listening to their stories and struggles.

The freer political climate and the burgeoning feminist movement of the 1970s brought new attention to Le Sueur and her work. Le Sueur maintained an extensive correspondence with writers, artists, and activists, many of whom were drawn to her dedication to liberal political, economic, and environmental causes. During the period from the late 1970s through the 1990s, she published a number of anthologies and stories, including many written during the 1930s but rejected for publication at that time. Several of her works, including "The Girl," "Annunciation," and "The Dread Road" were adapted for the stage by other writers. Le Sueur continued to write and give interviews, readings, and talks around the country until her death on November 14, 1996.

Biographical information was taken from the introduction to Ripening: Selected Work, 1927-1980 and from Better Red: The Writing and Resistance of Tillie Olson and Meridel Le Sueur, as well as newspaper articles and other materials in the collection.

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The Meridel Le Sueur papers include correspondence, literary journals, copies of published writings, published and unpublished manuscripts and manuscript fragments, publicity materials, radical publications, news clippings, photographs, and other miscellaneous materials documenting the life and career of Le Sueur, an actress, writer, journalist, feminist, and radical political activist. Also included in the collection are audio recordings made by Le Sueur containing interviews, music, and conversations with family and friends. In addition, the collection includes papers of Le Sueur's father, William Winston Wharton, her mother and step-father, Marian and Arthur Le Sueur, and her daughters, Deborah Le Sueur and Rachel Tilsen, and their families.

The correspondence, covering over seventy years of Le Sueur's life, contains letters from Le Sueur's friends, publishers, admirers, and family, particularly her daughters Rachel and Deborah. There is much information on family matters, her literary progress, and political affairs. The journals, which Le Sueur kept nearly her entire life, include 133 volumes dating from her teenage years through the early 1990s and were the wellspring of much of her writing. Manuscripts in the collection include a sampling of the huge amounts of material sent to Meridel by other aspiring writers in addition to her own work, both published and unpublished. Publications, news clippings, programs, and other publicity provide information on Le Sueur's career and activities, and on the many political and literary organizations of interest to her.

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These records are divided into the following sections:

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Restrictions:

Access to and use of reserve materials requires the curator's permission.

Preferred Citation:

[Indicate the cited item and/or series here]. Meridel Le Sueur Papers. Minnesota Historical Society.

See the Chicago Manual of Style for additional examples.

Location of Master Files:

Digital masters of audio recordings are maintained on the Society's secure digital collections storage servers and are managed and preserved in accordance with archival best practices.

Accession Information:

Accession numbers: 13,922; 13,994; 15,059; 15,425; 15,631; 16,347; 16,603

Processing Information:

Processing and cataloging of this collection was supported with a Basic Project grant awarded by the National Historical Publications and Records Commission (NHPRC).

Catalog ID number: 990017112280104294

Digital audio transferred from the master audio recordings by Saving Tape for preservation purposes (March 2019).

Boxes 152.K.19.11B-14F and 152.K.19.6F were vacated after digital transfer of audio reels and audiocassettes (December 2021).

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Correspondence is divided into four series: chronological, which includes letters from friends, family, admirers, and others; alphabetical, arranged by author; publication efforts; and miscellaneous correspondence.

Frequent correspondents in the chronological series include Oscar Christensen, Ethel Hepburn, Elizabeth "Betty" Schoening, Velma Vikingson Smith, Paula Zimmering, and Le Sueur's two daughters, Deborah Le Sueur (Deborah Stoffer during the time she was married) and Rachel Tilsen. Additional correspondence from Deborah and Rachel may also be found in the series Family and Other Papers.

Letters in the alphabetical series are from the individual to Meridel Le Sueur, unless otherwise noted. Additional letters from said individuals may be found in the chronological series, too.

Materials about publication efforts include letters from publishers and literary agents, contracts, royalty statements, and materials concerning donations to support the publication of Le Sueur's book The Crusaders and another story, "Robert Emmett." Additional letters from publishers and agents may be found in the chronological series, too.

Miscellaneous correspondence includes Le Sueur's outgoing letters, and correspondence of the Meridel Le Sueur Library Foundation, which provided public access to Meridel's personal library (donated to Augsburg College in 1994).

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Includes a sample of the thousands of essays, stories, poems, and other writing sent to Le Sueur for comment by colleagues, admirers, and students from her writing classes. Some include accompanying correspondence. The vast majority of these materials are undated. The manuscripts are arranged in alphabetical order by the author's name when known and may include some writing by Le Sueur.

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Includes copies of many articles, stories, and poems published by Le Sueur in a variety of publications, including literary journals, popular magazines, and newspapers (mainly labor-related or socialist). Also included are galleys of several of her anthologies published by West End Press. Materials are arranged chronologically.

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Consists of manuscript copies, published/unpublished and identified/unidentified, by Le Sueur, including poetry, songs, dramatic scripts, short stories, novels, speeches, lectures, essays, and nonfiction. Also a large volume of fragments, notes (topical and otherwise), and notebooks. Le Sueur appears to have compiled the notebooks mainly while traveling; some are marked "copied," perhaps indicating Le Sueur later summarized or transcribed their contents into her more formal journals (see also Literary Journals). A manuscript of Irene: Selected Writings of Irene Paull is also included.

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Le Sueur kept a journal from the time she was a teenager until her death. These journals functioned not just as a place to record her thoughts and experiences, but as a laboratory for Le Sueur's writing. The writing is often impressionistic and abstract, a stream of consciousness. It reflects Le Sueur's reaction against the linear, highly structured form of writing she considered patriarchal. Forming the single largest section of the papers, the 133 volumes of journals in the collection date from 1918 through 1991 and are organized in roughly chronological order.

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Le Sueur's papers include journals, magazines, newspapers, and other print and near-print materials from numerous organizations of interest to her. The materials consist primarily of radical, socialist, and labor publications, as well as literary journals. There are also flyers advertising local events or appearances by individuals, including rallies, book or poetry readings, artistic performances or exhibitions, and lectures.

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This material concerns Le Sueur's interaction with the public. The bulk consists of a chronological series of newspaper and magazine articles about Le Sueur and her work but also includes publishers' publicity pieces; programs and flyers from Le Sueur's appearances at various rallies, lectures, and readings; interviews of Le Sueur and coursework and academic/term papers on her work; poetry written about or in honor of Le Sueur; pieces celebrating Le Sueur, including on her 80th and 90th birthdays; and stage, film, and musical adaptations based on or inspired by her work.

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Includes personal items such as award certificates, memorabilia, and other miscellaneous items. Also includes photographs of Le Sueur, her family, and friends dating from the early 1900s through the 1980s. Few were labeled but most have been identified by Le Sueur's daughter Rachel Tilsen and the processor. A few photographs of Le Sueur's father, William Winston Wharton, and his family can be found in the section of the collection entitled, "Family and Other Papers."

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In addition to her own personal papers, the collection includes some of the papers of several of Le Sueur's immediate family members. These materials, consisting primarily of correspondence, are organized by family member. In addition to the family papers, there is a folder of letters to Margaret Hunt from various individuals, which was found with the Le Sueur papers.

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In the early 1950s, folk singer Pete Seeger and the staff of folk-song magazine Sing Out! (begun in May 1950) gave Meridel a reel-to-reel tape recorder. For more than thirty years, Meridel recorded nearly 400 hours of men and women singing, socializing, arguing, discussing politics, reciting poetry, and relating their lives' stories.

In 1978, Meridel loaned these tapes to five women known as Pandora Productions. Their intent: to produce a radio broadcast miniseries on the cultural history of Midwest working people. In 1979, they released People, Pride and Politics: Building the North Star Country, a six-part, three-hour program set to air on KFAI radio (Minneapolis) and available for purchase on cassette. Material includes outlines and indexes, transcripts for four of the six episodes, and abridged transcripts of Meridel's tapes.

In 1989, College of St. Catherine faculty member Claire McInerney undertook a grant-funded project called Meridel Le Sueur: A Witness to Minnesota History. She directed five Information Management Department students to listen to the tapes, describe the content, and index each tape by the people mentioned, key events discussed, and the general subject matter presented. Material includes letters of project support solicited by McInerney, a project brochure, the finished descriptive list, and student summary reports.

Note about tape numbers: Several numbering schemes have been imposed over time. No attempt has been made to reconcile them. For this inventory, the first reel-to-reel tape is numbered 1, ascending sequentially across the entire tape collection.

Location

Internet

Audio recordings:

The audio recordings were made from the 1950s through the 1980s.

Tape 1.

Side 1: Family conversation, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (327 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.5 MB).

Includes conversation between Meridel and children. They talk about school and what is in the newspaper. The children interview each other, sing songs, count in Spanish, and talk about Hebrew school.

Meridel asks one child about JFK winning the election, war with Russia, and the child's love life.

Children describe their appearances and interview each other.

Audio continues with a man reading/telling the James Dean story of how he became an actor. Concludes with a recitation of The Raven.

Digital audio

Side 2: Broadcasts and conversations, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 1 minute): WAV (309 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (42 MB).

A man from Salt Flat, Texas is reading Poe's The Raven using a variety of accents. Meridel is with him.

This recitation is interrupted by stories and other conversation (story about a man who mispronounced Minneapolis). Also includes bits of KDWB broadcast, excerpts of a TV religious service, child reading Gettysburg Address, man whispering a dramatic story, Hebrew songs and conversations, and children taking turns interviewing each other.

Digital audio

Tape 2.

Side 1: Poetry reading and conversations, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 1 minute): WAV (308 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (41.9 MB).

Audio begins with recitation of poetry by various people. Poems include: With God On Their Side, It's Their Job, Thousand Year Old Beauty, Fifteen, Ode To A Goddess.

Continues with Mark talking about a flood of refugees, friends, news, etc. Background noise and conversations follow.

Last, Meridel speaking with two little boys about school and learning.

A barking dog, tin whistle songs, and singing end this side.

Digital audio

Side 2: Singing, undated. 1 master audio file (1 minute, 3 seconds): WAV (5.3 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (0.7 MB).

A short clip of singing.

Digital audio

Tape 3.

Side 1: Family conversations, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 6 minutes): WAV (335 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.6 MB).

This is a recording from Debbie, Robin, and Bernie to Meridel. It begins with conversation between Debbie and Robin, and preparations before Marsha comes. It continues after Marsha's arrival with conversation including family news and paintings. Continues with a lengthy section when Debbie describes how she happened to marry Bernie. She also gives general news to Meridel. The last ten minutes are Robin and her friend Gene playing and talking.

Digital audio

Side 2: Christmas holidays, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 6 minutes): WAV (335 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.6 MB).

The children take turns singing or playing a song and then each tells about what they've been doing. Songs include: Frere Jacque, Mary Had A Little Lamb, The First Noel, Deck The Halls, an original composition by Robin, My Country 'Tis Of Thee, Joy To The World, Christopher's To A Dog composition. A small section records Robin looking up "insect" in her new encyclopedia set. The end is general conversation among the children and family.

Digital audio

Tape 4.

Side 1: Family conversations, undated. 1 master audio file (45 minutes, 6 seconds): WAV (227 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (30.9 MB).

A composition of pieces: calypso music, guitar, general conversation in the background, faint singing with bamboo flute and guitar, children talking and singing.

Digital audio

Side 2: Music, etc., undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 1 minute): WAV (310 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (42.3 MB).

Recording is composition of many pieces: recitation of poetry (I Have Built America); children singing (Home On The Range); opera; calypso music; general conversations with Meridel present.

Digital audio

Tape 5.

Side 1: Classical music, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 6 minutes): WAV (334 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.5 MB).

Digital audio

Side 2: Interviews about plowing competition, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 6 minutes): WAV (335 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.6 MB).

Starts out with an interviewer talking to several men about the World Plow Match to be held in Oxford, England in October 1956. Includes explanations of the plowing competitions, where men from about 20 countries of the world compete to be the best plowman worldwide.

Next, several minutes of classical music followed by Indonesian music and singing. Classical music by Beethoven is followed by Pete Seeger singing two folk songs.

A short program about over-the-road truckers and their work is next, then more classical music.

Digital audio

Tape 6.

Side 1: Music, undated. 1 master audio file (38 minutes, 36 seconds): WAV (194 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (26.5 MB).

Consists of classical music with faint conversation in the background.

Digital audio

Side 2: Music; broadcast, undated. 1 master audio file (58 minutes, 53 seconds): WAV (297 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (40.4 MB).

Begins with music (spiritual, blues): I Cry For My Race and Sidetrack.

It continues with This Is Our Story, narrated by Studs Terkel. This is a radio program featuring lullabies and cradle songs, specifically their origins and universality. The songs included are from countries such as Ireland, France, and the West Indies. Discussion also focuses on contents of lullabies. The recording ends with a collection of blues music.

Digital audio

Tape 7.

Side 1, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (323 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44 MB).

Notes on container: We'll Meet in the Valley; Carl Sandberg birthday; Roger Ashby [copied?]; Elder Holte of Bergen.

Digital audio

Side 2, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (323 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (43.9 MB).

Notes on container: Brahms quintet; drums contest; Helen Keller; revival.

Digital audio

Tape 8.

Side 1. Russian music; Paul Robeson, 1959. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 31 minutes): WAV (461 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (62.8 MB).

Notes on container: Russian music, Soviet records 1959; Paul Robeson; John Bernard; Puglisse story; lovely singer in New York; Sam H.; vote.

Digital audio

Side 2. Russian music, 1959. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (329 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.7 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 9.

Side 1: Broadcast, undated. 1 master audio file (28 minutes, 27 seconds): WAV (143 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (19.5 MB).

Contains a CBS (August 28) live news broadcast of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. Meridel seems to have recorded this from an Omaha news channel. Meridel and others can be heard in the background. Includes Martin Luther King's I Have A Dream speech.

Digital audio

Tape 10.

Side 1: Music; conversation about prison conditions, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour): WAV (1.2 GB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (80 MB).

Begins with children singing and speaking in Spanish, also Spanish music. Next, a conversation with Betty Smith and Meridel. Specific topics Betty discusses include: contraband in prisons; punitive measures; seclusion; system of authority; communication between inmates; classification board; disciplinary board; relations with superiors; preparations when leaving prison; physical conditions in prison, such as decoration of rooms and cigarette allotment. Recording ends with Gershwin music.

Digital audio

Side 2: Music; women in prison, undated. 1 master audio file (47 minutes): WAV (985 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (61.6 MB).

Begins with various songs (Spanish, Hebrew, English).

Then, Meridel interviews Betty. They discuss treatment of women in prison, women prisoners and their attitudes, psychiatric aid, schooling, rehabilitation for women, preparation for life outside of prison, prison jobs (pros and cons), correspondence in prison, dignity of prisoners, and self-government system.

Digital audio

Tape 11.

Side 1: Conversations about peace protests, undated. 1 master audio file (43 minutes, 30 seconds): WAV (219 MB) and 1 audio file: MP3 (29.8 MB).

David is talking with Meridel about the peace protests in Washington. He reads the Declaration of Peace and describes the arrests. He mentions people involved in the protest.

The rest of the recording has singing (Freedom State Line) - Rachel and Debbie with others.

Digital audio

Side 2: Documentary; conversations about peace protests, undated. 1 master audio file (51 minutes, 47 seconds): WAV (261 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (35.5 MB).

Overlay occurs during the first ten minutes of this side. The 3-3/4 speed contains a documentary about Frederick Douglas--his life and accomplishments.

The 7-1/2 speed is a continuation of Side 1. David Tilsen tells Meridel about his experiences in Washington during the Peace Protests. He discusses the conditions, people present such as Joan Baez, and the various arrests.

Digital audio

Tape 12.

Side 1: Family conversation, undated. 1 master audio file (57 minutes, 12 seconds): WAV (288 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (39.2 MB).

Meridel is having a conversation with Ray [poet Ray Smith?] and his father. They tell stories about shooting pool, neighbors, Arthur Le Sueur, the army, and Ray's mother. The beginning of the tape is difficult to hear because of the children, but it quiets down later. Later, Meridel speaks about giving women their due credit.

Digital audio

Side 2: Music; family conversation, undated. 1 master audio file (56 minutes, 45 seconds): WAV (286 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (38.9 MB).

Begins with a German orchestra and the Vienna Boys Choir, playing a Bach piece.

The last part consists of children singing and more conversation between Meridel and Ray's father, Pa. Pa tells various Native American stories as well as stories about his home town in South Dakota.

Digital audio

Tape 13.

Side 1: Family conversation and correspondence, undated. 1 master audio file (55 minutes, 57 seconds): WAV (282 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (38.4 MB).

Begins with a continuation of the Candystick story. Includes correspondence from Robin, Rachel, and Meridel to Joci, David, Daniel. Also includes family conversations and animal imitations.

Maurice is talking about catching the bus. Frank, Maurice, and a woman are singing. Contains an interview of Sam Horowitz's mother in New York, regarding her son going to prison, getting married, and working.

Background noise. General conversation.

Poetry by [Ethel?] Hepburn. Correspondence to Rachel and Kenny.

Digital audio

Side 2: Music; family conversations, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (327 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.5 MB).

Classical music featuring Rudolf Serkin on the piano and Pablo Casals on the cello. Includes Beethoven's Sonatas No. 4 and 3.

Also includes the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, Steinberg directing.

Concludes with Robin telling a story about the candysticks that ran away, got married, and had baby candysticks.

Digital audio

Tape 14.

Side 1: Conversations With Native American women, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 1 minute): WAV (310 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (42.1 MB).

Two women are talking, stating the Indian names for common animals and plants. Mrs. Peake, a White Earth reservation woman, tells Native American stories. One is about a man, Andes Wadena, who had a stroke, was treated with White Man's medicine, but still wanted "grand medicine treatment" from "pagans," even though he was Christian. Mrs. Peake then tells of other experiences: "grand medicine" woman, store owners who couldn't read or write, and of a man who wanted to marry a rich woman who wasn't really rich, but had set up a scheme to catch him and his money.

Digital audio

Side 2: Music, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 3 minutes): WAV (321 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (43.7 MB).

Classical music by Shostakovich and other composers.

Digital audio

Tape 15.

Side 1, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 2 minutes): WAV (313 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (42.6 MB).

Notes on container: Morris Paull; Sunday meeting of old timers.

Digital audio

Side 2, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (330 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.9 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 16.

Side 1: 5th annual Silver Lake Writer's Conference, undated. 1 master audio file (29 minutes, 52 seconds): WAV (150 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (20.5 MB).

Writer's roundtable discussion.

Digital audio

Side 2: Music, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 1 minute): WAV (308 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (41.9 MB).

This contains many performances by various local artists and musicians. It is a cultural gathering in the Twin Cities with Meridel as the mistress of ceremonies. Performers include Wilbur Brams, Lionel Davis, Justine O'Connor, and Katherine Brokner. Malvina Reynolds' compositions are featured along with the Rosenberg Suite. Introductions by Meridel are informative.

Digital audio

Tape 17.

Side 1: Conversation with El Duke de Aragon, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 3 minutes): WAV (1.3 GB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (80 MB).

Both sides are the story of a man called El Duke de Aragon. Meridel interviews him about his life, starting out on his family's ranch in New Mexico, and ending up in Mexico city.

Digital audio

Side 2: Conversation with El Duke de Aragon, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (1.3 GB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (81.5 MB).

Continues El Duke de Aragon continues his life story.

Digital audio

Tape 18.

Side 1: Recorded sounds, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (329 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.7 MB).

Entire side contains sounds of a tropical rain forest; Dry season and rainy season.

Digital audio

Side 2: Broadcast, undated. 1 master audio file (54 minutes, 53 seconds): WAV (277 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (37.6 MB).

Studs Terkel hosts a radio program at WFMT in Chicago, interviews Jack Conroy about his various works, particularly Writers In Revolt. Excerpts from Jack's books and other writers are included: Harp Of A Thousand Strings, Slappy Hooper, The Wonderful Sign Painter, Sequel To Love, They Follow Us Girl. Vernon Dalhard songs include The Prisoner Soon and The Wreck Of The Old '97.

The end portion contains the Philadelphia Orchestra, broadcasting from the Academy of Music in Philadelphia. The program includes The Overture to the Magic Flute; Concerto No. 4 in D Major; Concerto in B-flat Major; and Symphony No. in 41 C Major.

Digital audio

Tape 19.

Side 1: Family conversations, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (325 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.3 MB).

This side is general conversation including Meridel, Lucile Driftmier Verness, Russell Verness, and John. Included in discussion are various memories of life at 2521 Harriet, stories concerning Marion and Arthur (e.g., dirty laundry, moving furniture) and stories of the children (Meridel's granddaughter Robin Stoffer believing that a wolf was her new baby brother/sister).

Digital audio

Side 2: Interview, undated. 1 master audio file (54 minutes, 9 seconds): WAV (273 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (37.1 MB).

Meridel interviews a Polish domestic worker, Bernice Kitowski. Bernice talks about a young farmer's various marriage proposals, finding work, setting up house, farm stories about unknown noises, and friendships with an old Polish woman.

The last fifteen minutes include Native American chanting and drum music.

Digital audio

Tape 20.

Side 1: Music, undated. 1 master audio file (48 minutes, 22 seconds): WAV (250 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (34 MB).

Notes on container: Vesti la Giubba (Pagliacci); Then You'll Remember Me (Bohemian girl); Your Eyes Have Told Me So; When or Where; If I Loved You; E Lucevan le Stelle (Tosca); Believe Me If All Those Endearing Charms; The Minstrel Boy; The Rose of Tralee; A Brown Bird Singing.

Digital audio

Side 2: Conversation, June 1957. 1 master audio file (50 minutes, 37 seconds): WAV (262 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (35.6 MB).

Notes on container: Conversation to San Francisco folks.

Digital audio

Tape 21.

Side 1: Songs; party, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 12 minutes): WAV (373 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (50.6 MB).

Notes on container: Lettuce worker songs; Robin empty end party.

Digital audio

Side 2: Parties, undated. 1 master audio file (45 minutes, 42 seconds): WAV (236 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (32.1 MB).

Notes on container: Party at Hubert; mariachis; party with Santa Cruz.

Digital audio

Tape 22.

Side 1: Interviews with migrant workers; music, undated. 1 master audio file (35 minutes): WAV (737 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (46.7 MB).

Continued TV program from Side 2. Includes interviews of migrants, speeches, singing and other commentary. Also discussed is the Delano Strike. Speed changes to 7-1/2 (Blues music). Speed changes again to 3-3/4 and the documentary program about migrant farm workers continues. The tape ends with music.

Digital audio

Side 2: Music; interviews with migrant workers, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 3 minutes): WAV (1.3 GB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (83.8 MB).

First half of this side contains a musical production. It includes speaking, instrumentals, and opera. Between pieces, the composer is interviewed.

It continues with a segment on Middle Eastern music.

Next, a recorded program about agricultural unions and agricultural strikes. A focus is on the Mexican farm workers; various people are interviewed.

The MFWA (Migrant Farm Workers Association) is discussed.

Digital audio

Tape 23.

Side 1: Family celebration, undated. 1 master audio file (42 minutes, 49 seconds): WAV (227 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (30.8 MB).

Contains a Jewish service marking the 45th wedding anniversary of Edward and Esther Tilsen. Five of the twenty-one grandchildren provide a narration as a medieval Jewish marriage ring is presented to their grandparents. Also included is the welcoming of Janey Beth Tilsen (parents: Joyce and Robert Tilsen) into the community.

Digital audio

Side 2: Family celebration, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 2 minutes): WAV (322 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (43.8 MB).

Continuation of Edward and Esther Tilsen's 45th wedding anniversary celebration. Included are conversations, children singing, and a narrated segment, This Is Your Life, featuring Edward and Esther Tilsen.

Digital audio

Tape 24.

Side 1: Family conversations, undated. 1 master audio file (43 minutes, 6 seconds): WAV (223 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (30.3 MB).

The Tilsen and Stoffer children are telling riddles and jokes, pretending to be announcers on a radio/TV station program featuring news, sports, and interviews; also pretending to learn Spanish, and being aliens from Jupiter.

Digital audio

Side 2: Music, folk and classical, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (336 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.7 MB).

Folk music starts out this side, then the tape contains a recorded television program featuring a rehearsal of a quartet playing the music of Bela Bartok. Some analysis of the music is done during the rehearsal.

Digital audio

Tape 25.

Side 1, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 3 minutes): WAV (326 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.3 MB).

Notes on container: Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee; Freedom Now; This Little Light of Mine; dogs; worker info; I'm a Man of Constant Sorrow; Sylon[?]; Practical Book of Celts[?]; We Shall Overcome; Ain't Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me Around; We Shall Not Be Moved; Calb Get Joe[?]; Get on Board; Big Bill Broonzy; [?]; Little Light of Mine[?]; Blues in the Mississippi Night; Lomax[?].

Digital audio

Side 2, undated. 1 master audio file (33 minutes, 32 seconds): WAV (173 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (23.6 MB).

Notes on container: Ballad Studs; Archie and Mehililel[?]; Mahala [?]; Nina Simone.

Digital audio

Tape 26.

Side 1, undated. 1 master audio file (50 minutes, 37 seconds): WAV (262 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (35.6 MB).

Notes on container: Yank [Levine?]; continue of Clarksdale; Gregory; As I Come to Weep Upon My Father's Grave.

Digital audio

Side 2, undated. 1 master audio file (45 minutes, 21 seconds): WAV (234 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (31.9 MB).

Notes on container: Continue Clarksdale - fine music; conversation on porch; Entrance of Irene Paull's grandchildren.

Digital audio

Tape 27.

Side 1: Progressive party conference and family conversations, 1956. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 3 minutes): WAV (328 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.6 MB).

The spring conference of the Progressive Party is meeting and many people are speaking to gather support for the movement. Speakers included Marzini, Earl W. Stillman, and Susie Stageberg. Letters are read from members who couldn't be present.

The last section is Rachel and Ken Tilsen's vacation stories taped for Deborah.

Digital audio

Side 2: Family gathering, 1956. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 6 minutes): WAV (343 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (46.6 MB).

Family members--Rachel and Ken Tilsen, their children, and Meridel--are featured on this recording that was made to be sent to Deborah on her birthday.

Digital audio

Tape 28.

Side 1: Conversations; music; interviews, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 12 minutes): WAV (376 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (51.2 MB).

Begins with Meridel and friends in general conversation.

The next segment contains poetry read over jazz music and an interview of the performer. Next is an excerpt of a radio interview with Dr. Castor (Assistant Professor at University of Minnesota) about radiation fallout and atomic testing.

The remainder is Meridel interviewing various old-timers. Topics discussed include farm evictions, the Holiday Association, farm organizers, farm meetings, land development/homesteading, socialists/socialist meetings, and farming and crops.

Digital audio

Side 2: Interview; music, undated. 1 master audio file (44 minutes, 5 seconds): WAV (228 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (31 MB).

Begins with Meridel interviewing a Russian immigrant. He talks about the Soviet Union's bureaucracy and trade, in relation to other European and Western countries.

The next portion consists of various clips such as a TV program, music with narration, jazz music, and classical music. The remainder of the side, Meridel narrates over background music.

Digital audio

Tape 29.

Side 1: Family conversations, poetry, music, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (333 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.3 MB).

Begins with Meridel talking to two children. They jump rope and recite jump-rope rhymes for her.

Next, a man recites anti-war poetry. Included are Hydrogen Horror, There Goes Harriet Tubman, To The Memory of Albert Einstein, and other poems in memory of such people as Isabelle Gonzales, Morton Sobell, the Rosenbergs, and Walter Lowenthal.

It continues with children jumping rope and playing. Concludes with a symphony.

Digital audio

Side 2: Music, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (335 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.5 MB).

Contains folk music.

Digital audio

Tape 30.

Side 1: Interview, undated. 1 master audio file: 48 minutes, 45 seconds): WAV (252 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (32.3 MB).

Meridel interviews Jenny Fry about her life. Jenny was a Ukrainian immigrant living in St. Paul.

She talks about her husband, children, divorce, house, and work.

Digital audio

Side 2: Interviews, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (334 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.5 MB).

Begins with a TV interview of Ben Hecht, Hollywood actor and writer. He talks about the movie industry, Hollywood, aging, religion, politics, political figures, and television.

The recording continues with Meridel's interview of Jenny Fry, an immigrant from the Ukraine. Jenny discusses her family, home life in the Ukraine, her mother, the Hebrew school, leaving Russia, having children, marriage, her husband, working, and her stay in a St. Paul hospital.

Digital audio

Tape 31.

Side 1: Conversation; music, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (338 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (46.1 MB).

Begins with clips of various things: children playing, a man speaking, and people singing appears to be a TV program.

Continues with a man giving a speech in Spanish. Spanish music and singing follows. The next segment is a musical production: an Indian narration, in English, over music.

Digital audio

Side 2: Music, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (338 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (46 MB).

Begins with Peter LaFarge album (Women Blues); songs include Bad Girl, Lone Night Song, I Will Bring You Flowers, Sundi, Handsome Blackarbee, The View Is Clear, People Ask Me, Rainbow Race, Don't Tell Me How I Look Falling, In My Chains, Broken Bird, Nobody Can Do It Alone, Pete's Blues, Epitaph Blues. Continues with segment of a musical production featuring the Beatles, pop music, vaudeville-type music, and a Brazilian folk singer.

Digital audio

Tape 32.

Side 1: Family conversations; conversation with Yank Levine, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (1.3 GB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (92 MB).

First half hour is background music and general conversation: shopping, dinner, etc., a baby crying.

The second half contains Yank Levine telling stories of people he deals with as a scrap collector: the restaurateur, bookseller, and others. He also tells of the day Meridel spent with him as he worked. Beatrice tells a story of the psychopathic decorator and when she first met Yank.

Digital audio

Side 2: Interview, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (1.3 GB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (88.3 MB).

Meridel interviews Walter and his wife about various people, events, and organizations. Walter and his wife are from the Midwest. Walter was an organizer for many alliances. They also discuss their family background.

Digital audio

Tape 33.

Side 1: Parties; folk songs, undated. 1 master audio file 34 minutes, 8 seconds): WAV (176 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (24 MB).

Notes on container: Party - singing; folk songs; Yiddish songs and translation thereof; Maurice party; [Andrés?] Segovia; [Pablo?] Casals; Bach.

Digital audio

Side 2: Deborah Stoffer, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (332 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.3 MB).

Notes on container: [Andrés?] Segovia; string quartet; Deborah story.

Digital audio

Tape 34.

Side 1: Café radio program, 1967. 1 master audio file (49 minutes, 51 seconds): WAV (257 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (35.1 MB).

Contains an interview with Mrs. X. The war in Vietnam and related topics are discussed. Next, children (Owen, Jennifer, and Brendan) are playing with the recorder. Continues with a meeting regarding rights of Spanish immigrants.

Digital audio

Side 2: Café radio Program, 1967. 1 master audio file (43 minutes, 14 seconds): WAV (223 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (30.4 MB).

Begins with a radio program from Santa Fe, New Mexico. Mrs. X., the guest, is being interviewed about military spending, religious issues in Vietnam, communism, and Citizens Acting For Peace.

Next, after a short guitar solo, children are heard talking and singing.

Digital audio

Tape 35.

Side 1: Carl Sandburg on Abraham Lincoln; Rachel's children sing, 1960. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 6 minutes): WAV (340 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (46.3 MB).

Carl Sandburg speaks about Lincoln's life. Rachel's children sing many songs.

Digital audio

Side 2: Debate About Lincoln's life. Rachel's children sing, 1960. 1 master audio file (54 minutes, 32 seconds): WAV (282 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (38.3 MB).

Carl Sandburg, Everett Dirksen, and Norton Parkinson debate on television whether or not Abraham Lincoln could have become president in 1960.

Bart Von Scheeling sings songs in German, Spanish, Italian, and French. A woman sings Guatemalan songs and Mexican songs. Children and adults are singing hymns and children's songs.

Digital audio

Tape 36.

Side 1: Al Blair, union organizer, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 3 minutes): WAV (328 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.6 MB).

Blair talks about organizing unions. He was a communist, working for Westinghouse Electric in 1929 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He also talks about organizing unions elsewhere, including Minnesota, and getting jailed for the Westinghouse Electric labor strike.

Digital audio

Side 2: Music, undated. 1 master audio file (16 minutes, 18 seconds): WAV (84.2 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (11.5 MB).

Slavic accordion and singer: folk songs Toil Not in Vain, Oh Miss Bailey, Unfortunate Miss Bailey, Up the Champlain Blue, unknown title, unknown title, Heave ho, Heave ho; lullaby: Till Papa's Ship Comes In.

Digital audio

Tape 37.

Side 1: Elizabeth Rock Jude interview; Kruschev on Face The Nation, 1957. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 15 minutes): WAV (391 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (53.3 MB).

Mrs. Elizabeth Rock Jude, an Oneida-Iroquois born in Wisconsin, married to a Chippewa, talks briefly about her life and other Indian historical pieces of information. Face the Nation has Kruschev as its featured guest talking about increasing production of food in U.S.S.R.

Digital audio

Side 2: Helen Gallagher; Pat Gleason's birthday; Frank Lloyd Wright, 1957. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 23 minutes): WAV (430 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (58.5 MB).

Helen Gallagher, Industrial Workers of the World (IWW) member, speaks of the IWW and how it organized basic industries such as mining and farming. She also tells of IWW members that went to trial and didn't defend themselves.

Pat Gleason, a member of the Progressive movement and Non-Partisan League, had his birthday celebrated. Speakers tell of Gleason's accomplishments.

Narrator is telling about Frank Lloyd Wright and some of his designs (Guggenheim museum, Florida Southern Univ. building, Church for Walter Bublitz's congregation, Herbert Jacobs' house).

A man talks about his life and organizing WPA people.

End is blues and jazz music.

Digital audio

Tape 38.

Side 1: Folk songs; classical music, 1965. 1 master audio file (55 minutes, 45 seconds): WAV (288 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (39.2 MB).

Songs by Malvina Reynolds include Let Us Come In, I Got A Song, Where Are You Going, My Little One, Last Night I Had a Dream, The Gentlemen of Distinction in the Army, I Live in a City, Yes I Do, Today is Tomorrow and It's Gone, I'm Awfully Nervous Lonesome, and Bury Me In My Overalls. A man sings Man Of The Year. Malvina Reynolds sings Johnny Built a Boat, then a woman reads a poem. Malvina sings again, Mountains of New Mexico, Love is Something If You Give it Away, Stay Where You Are, Don't Talk To Me of Love Anymore. Several different classical music songs end Side 1 of the recording.

Digital audio

Side 2: Conversation with Esther Hesler, 1965. 1 master audio file (57 minutes, 28 seconds): WAV (297 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (40.4 MB).

Esther Hesler tells about her life as a labor organizer, describing how the AFL wanted the millinery people (she was one) to join them, and why the millinery people didn't want to. She tells about circumstances of the poor at that time in the U.S.

Digital audio

Tape 39.

Side 1: Harry Mayville, labor organizer, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 3 minutes): WAV (329 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.8 MB).

Harry Mayville tells about several strikes he apparently was involved in, including the Truck Drivers' Strike, the Flour City Strike, and the Streetware Strike. He is talking to Meridel Le Sueur on both sides.

Digital audio

Side 2: Harry Mayville, continued, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 2 minutes): WAV (321 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (43.7 MB).

Harry Mayville tells about how he organized a strike in Leone, Wisconsin, at a plant/factory owned by a Mr. Connor. He relates what happened during the strike.

Digital audio

Tape 40.

Side 1, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 2 minutes): WAV (329 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.1 MB).

A man reads various accounts of laborer murders in the early 1900s.

Next, an interview about joining the labor movement, followed by gospel music.

Digital audio

Side 2: Music; constitutional rights, undated. 1 master audio file (48 minutes, 34 seconds): WAV (321 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (34.1 MB).

Starts off with Gospel music.

Next, a radio broadcast from Berkeley, California features Alexander Micklejohn speaking to the Senate Subcommittee on Constitutional Rights. Micklejohn's speech was entitled "The First Amendment: The Core of the Constitution."

Digital audio

Tape 41.

Side 1: Family conversations; radio program, 1953. 1 master audio file (35 minutes, 4 seconds): WAV (181 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (24.6 MB).

Gary Smith singing kids' songs. Carl and Betty on the phone. Two minutes of the O'Kassick interview. Party at the Maonalds', everyone given the opportunity to sing a song, tell a story, or a joke.

Digital audio

Side 2: Music; singing, 1953. 1 master audio file (35 minutes, 55 seconds): WAV (186 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (25.3 MB).

People singing, accompanied by piano and jaws harp; another group singing In Brooklyn, N.Y.; Ex-Minnesotans Association.

Digital audio

Tape 42.

Side 1: Interview with Harry Jenkins, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 2 minutes): WAV (322 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (43.8 MB).

Jenkins continues talking about his experiences with IWW. Relates how he had an accident and lost his leg, then was given a desk job in the IWW. He talks about scabs, informants in companies and how they operated.

Meridel talks about the works of Oscar Amering, and the Duke University collection of labor-related papers--the best collection of its kind, in her opinion.

Jenkins talks about the Copper Queen Mining Company and the lawyer William B. Cleary, who defended workers from the IWW. Meridel's father is discussed. The strikes in Boston, Massachusetts are also mentioned.

Digital audio

Side 2: Interview with Harry Jenkins continues, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (332 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.1 MB).

Jenkins describes how he worked various jobs and eventually ended up on the West Coast involved in the IWW Party. He describes the Free Speech Fight in Fresno, California. He describes his experiences while in jail, and also describes his fellow workers. Talks of being jailed in Modesto, California. Talks about Jack White's speech given in San Diego, and how it summed up all their feelings. Jensen recalls celebrating VE Day with the Russians. He talks more about rebel songs, jail, and Frank Little.

Digital audio

Tape 43.

Side 1: Family conversation; broadcast, undated. 1 master audio file (34 minutes, 32 seconds): WAV (178 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (24.3 MB).

Rachel and her children take turns talking, singing, and reading. Rachel reads a tale about Buncha the Silent.

Dylan Thomas does a reading, but neither the title of the piece nor the author are identified.

Digital audio

Side 2: Broadcasts, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (330 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.9 MB).

Biography in Sound, a radio program, features Alexandra Woolcott and Clarence Darrow. Woolcott was a newspaper reporter, drama critic, and book reviewer. Darrow was the defense lawyer for the Scopes Trial.

Digital audio

Tape 44.

Interviews; family conversations, undated. 1 master audio file (21 minutes, 17 seconds): WAV (110 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (14.9 MB).

Charles Roult tells about how he came over from Germany in 1934.

Jacob Lipshitz, a sculptor, is being interviewed on the air.

Two children, Robin and Davey, tell what happened when their dog had puppies.

Digital audio

Tape 45.

Side 1: Conversation of Lou Gilbert (Gigi), blacklisted actor, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (1.3 GB) and 1 1 user audio file: MP3 (83.1 MB).

At a New Year's Eve party Lou Gilbert tells stories about being blacklisted as an actor, and being wanted as an actor for a film called Joseph and His Brethren by Cliff Odetts.

Digital audio

Side 2: New Year's Eve Party continues, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (1.3 GB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (82.6 MB).

Individual party conversations are impossible to identify. Later, Janice tells about Mexico. A children's party with children singing is next. Lastly, the New Year's Eve party continues.

Digital audio

Tape 46.

Side 1: Broadcasts; family conversations, undated. 1 master audio file (57 minutes, 44 seconds): WAV (298 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (40.6 MB).

First, rock and roll music is played.

Next, a thunderstorm is heard in the background along with a television program, Dr. Kildare, starring Richard Chamberlain.

Next, Meridel and Robin talk about her boyfriend and about Robin's teacher and school.

Digital audio

Side 2: Family conversations, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 3 minutes): WAV (329 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.8 MB).

Meridel has a conversation with Robin about life at Lowell High School. Robin recounts the trouble her friend, Mary, got into for putting nude drawings up in a display case.

Next, Lucille Driftmier Verness, Meridel, Carolyn, and Jacqueline Paull talk about travels to New Mexico and Native American culture.

Deborah Stoffer discusses her experiences as a teacher.

Digital audio

Tape 47, undated. 1 master audio file 29 minutes, 22 seconds): WAV (151 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.8 MB).

Notes on container: [Bela] Bartok: sonata for two pianos and percussion; [Leopold?] Stokowski and symphony orchestra.

Digital audio

Tape 48, undated. 1 master audio file (34 minutes, 2 seconds): WAV (176 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (23.9 MB).

Notes on container: Mess backward.

Digital audio

Tape 49.

Side 1: Irish music; Sean O'Casey discussion, 1966. 1 master audio file (32 minutes, 45 seconds): WAV (169 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (23 MB).

Pete Seeger sings Irish folk songs, followed by a broadcast about Irish playwright Sean O'Casey.

Digital audio

Side 2: Sean O'Casey discussion; Civil Rights, 1966. 1 master audio file (47 minutes, 34 seconds): WAV (246 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (33.4 MB).

Sean O'Casey segment wraps up.

The history of African Americans and Civil Rights is discussed, featuring events in the South during the late 1950s to the early 1960s.

The audio then jumps to an anniversary of the 1916 Post Office Rebellion in Dublin, where the Irish tried to gain freedom from British rule.

Digital audio

Tape 50.

Side 1, undated. 1 master audio file (29 minutes, 55 seconds): WAV (154 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (21 MB).

Notes on container: Manuel de Falla, El Retablo de Maese Pedro.

Digital audio

Side 2, undated. 1 master audio file (3 minutes, 19 seconds): WAV (17.2 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (2.3 MB).

Notes on container: Woody and family; Debussy quartet, Budapest.

Digital audio

Tape 51.

Side 1: Folk music; television program about welfare; Picasso's Guernica mural, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 8 minutes): WAV (352 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (47.9 MB).

First, an unidentified woman sings several folk songs. Next, a television program covers New Yorkers on welfare--the difficulty in surviving on welfare, and how welfare perpetuates itself. Last, a television program features Pablo Picasso's mural Guernica, based on the bombing of Guernica during the Spanish Civil War.

Digital audio

Side 2: Classical music; East Indian music; birds of the Galapagos, undated. 1 master audio file (40 minutes, 32 seconds): WAV (209 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (28.5 MB).

This side contains about 25 minutes of classical music, followed by 10 to 15 minutes of East Indian music; then it features a television program about the birds of the Galapagos Islands.

Digital audio

Tape 52: Free Southern Theatre production; classical music; rock music, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 7 minutes): WAV (349 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (47.4 MB).

Broadcast featuring selections by the Free Southern Theatre, a group of young black artists based in New Orleans. The group is a free production, surviving on contributions from other theatre groups, donations, and grants. Selections highlight the problems facing blacks, such as poverty and poor living conditions.

Featured next are three classical works by Haydn with four guitars and a quartet. Last, is Freedom Rock from KBNM Radio in Albuquerque, N.M. Artists featured include Neil Diamond, The Beatles, Santana.

Digital audio

Tape 53.

Side 1: Family conversations; Discussions about Republican Party, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 6 minutes): WAV (345 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (47 MB).

Robin and Meridel sick with a fever. Deborah had recently given birth to Woody and was in the process of feeding him. Deborah needed poems for Robin to listen to. Meridel and an unnamed man discuss the birth of the Republican Party in the 1850s-60s. The man said a woman (Anna Carls) was behind the whole thing.

Deborah, Meridel, and Irene Paull are present for Woody's bath. Bernice Kitowski is featured on this recording[?].

An unnamed man tells how the Alaskans got together to nominate delegates to write a constitution. Another man tells Meridel about getting the Socialist Party together in the U.S.

Digital audio

Side 2: Conversation with Ben Lezere; family conversations, undated. 1 master audio file (55 minutes, 45 seconds): WAV (288 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (39.2 MB).

Ben Lezere talks about Russia and a man named Nicholas Hurwitz, who was a hero in the 1905 Russian Revolution. Ben became active again in Russia for the Socialist Movement, after being in the U.S. for some years. Lezere tells of Nicholas' underhanded tactics to get control of the Socialists, and how an Irishman, Jim Larkin, helped to stop him.

Next, Deborah talks about finding a director for a school, then discusses the curriculum of first-grade social studies, and finally tells of a woman's [Kathrine Fromer?] methods used to teach Indian children. The schedule for Robin's birthday is discussed by Bernice, Meridel, and Deborah.

Digital audio

Tape 54, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 16 minutes): WAV (394 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (53.6 MB).

Notes on container: Mexico party; Santa Cruz; songs [Notes found inside box: Crash noise whistling; Kim, Benny singing Foster songs; Vaya con Dios; Stalin funeral; let's-da-de-dum-dum; Benny; sounds squeaks; music?; more sounds; Pygmalion; Emilio Gonzales.]

Digital audio

Tape 55, undated. 1 master audio file (20 minutes, 47 seconds): WAV (107 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (14.6 MB).

Notes on container: Rachel, Rosie, Debbie III (outtakes).

Digital audio

Tape 56.

Side 1: Dylan Thomas reading poetry; E. E. Cummings reads a story, undated. 1 master audio file (59 minutes, 2 seconds): WAV (305 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (41.5 MB).

First 35 minutes feature Dylan Thomas reading poetry, followed by E. E. Cummings reading a play about Santa Claus.

Digital audio

Side 2: Poetry, undated. 1 master audio file (58 minutes, 41 seconds) WAV (303 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (41.2 MB).

Broadcast featuring three young poets: Louis Zukofsky, Frank O'Hara, and Ed Sanders.

Each is interviewed and reads samples of his own work.

Digital audio

Tape 57: Wounded Knee discussion, 1973. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 23 minutes): WAV (1.7 GB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (109 MB).

Ken Tilsen discusses his experiences as lawyer for the Indians at Wounded Knee, South Dakota, during the Wounded Knee Uprising.

Digital audio

Tape 58, undated. 1 master audio file (45 minutes, 19 seconds): WAV (234 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (31.8 MB.

Notes on container: Peace program.

Digital audio

Tape 59.

Side 1: Interview with Yank Levine, undated. 1 master audio file (32 minutes, 14 seconds): WAV (166 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (22.6 MB).

Yank relates funny stories about his past jobs: lifeguard at a resort, peanut vendor at a burlesque house, and a freight handler in the garment center of New York.

Digital audio

Side 2: Poetry, undated. 1 master audio file (23 minutes): WAV (118 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (16.1 MB).

Woman reads poetry.

Digital audio

Tape 60.

Side 1: Readings, undated. 1 master audio file (26 minutes, 47 seconds): WAV (138 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (18.8 MB).

Meridel reads a story entitled the Legend of Wilderness Road: The Story of Nancy Hanks.

The audio ends with Meridel conversing with several children.

Digital audio

Side 2: Readings, undated. 1 master audio file (25 minutes, 3 seconds): WAV (129 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (17.6 MB).

Meridel rehearses reading the Legend of Wilderness Road: The Story of Nancy Hanks.

Digital audio

Tape 61.

Side 1: Interview, undated. 1 master audio file (45 minutes, 44 seconds): WAV (236 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (32.1 MB).

Georgia Turner is interviewed about her past: sharecropping; tent city; her life.

Digital audio

Side 2: Interview; family conversations, undated. 1 master audio file (45 minutes, 51 seconds): WAV (237 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (32.2 MB).

Georgia Turner interview continues.

Followed by Lena and Arthur Borchardt celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary. Then, tapping of rain on the roof.

Diane Heinz, age 16, tells about her date. Charlie Roalt tells about his life, and working in a champagne factory. He would turn 72 the following week.

Digital audio

Tape 62.

Side 1: Conversation With Uncle Joe Yusef, undated. 1 master audio file: WAV (1.3 GB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (82 MB).

Uncle Joe, Harry Rice's father's brother, tells about his family, his life, and emigrating to the U.S.

Digital audio

Side 2: Conversation with Tom McGrath, undated. 1 master audio file (59 minutes): WAV (1.2 GB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (78.2 MB).

Meridel talks to Tom and Alma McGrath. Tom was an instructor at Los Angeles State College until he was called up before the House Committee on Un-American Activities. McGrath is also a poet; he reads many of his poems.

Digital audio

Tape 63.

Side 1: Conversation with Bernice Kitowski, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (338 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (46 MB).

Bernice Kitowski, a Polish woman who took care of Deborah and Rachel, tells Meridel about her life. She was a domestic worker.

Digital audio

Side 2: Music, undated. 1 master audio file (42 minutes, 15 seconds): WAV (218 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (29.7 MB).

The background music for Meridel's reading of the Story of Nancy Hanks is on this audio. Next, a man singing and playing guitar: folk songs. Then a session of classical music.

Next, Deborah and Robin play children's songs on the flute and xylophone. Next, Meridel rehearses reading the Legend of Wilderness Road: The Story of Nancy Hanks.

Digital audio

Tape 64: Memorial to Susie Stageberg, 1961. 1 master audio file 1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (336 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.7 MB).

Friends and acquaintances of Susie Stageberg speak in her memory. Memorial took place in mid-March 1961 at Red Wing, Minnesota. The WILPF (Women's International League for Peace and Freedom) is mentioned.

Digital audio

Tape 65, undated. 1 master audio file (4 minutes, 44 seconds): WAV (49 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (6.6 MB).

Notes on container: Meridel, including David's story of governors; songs; thoughts and gripes; praises; belches; screams.

Digital audio

Tape 66.

Side 1, undated. 1 master audio file (57 minutes, 8 seconds): WAV (295 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (40.1 MB).

Notes on container: St. Paul; church choir - Josh White; Woody Guthrie; Esther; children.

Digital audio

Side 2, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 1 minute): WAV (315 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (42.9 MB).

Notes on container: Thomas Wolfe; Ray Smith; how Kenneth [Tilsen] was born; how Rachel met Ken [Tilsen].

Digital audio

Tape 67.

Side 1, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (340 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (46.2 MB).

Notes on container: [Bela] Bartok; Celeste; cello.

Digital audio

Side 2, undated. 1 master audio file (35 minutes, 36 seconds): WAV (184 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (25 MB).

Notes on container: Schubert quintet in C major; Budapest string quartet; Goodbye, Milton; Ernie Lieberman; Irene [Paull?].

Digital audio

Tape 68.

Side 1, 1948. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (335 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.6 MB).

Notes on container: Deborah birthday, 1948.

Digital audio

Side 2, 1948. 1 master audio file (45 minutes): WAV (232 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (31.6 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 69.

Side 1, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 1 minute): WAV (316 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (43.1 MB).

Notes on container: Variations on a theme of Hindemith by Walther Szell; Barbara Streisand; symphony no. 2 Sebelen.

Digital audio

Side 2, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 1 minute): WAV (318 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (43.2 MB).

Notes on container: Sebelners; Ruth St. Denis; [Morris?] Carnovsky - King Lear; interview with William Schuman.

Digital audio

Tape 70.

Side 1, undated. 1 master audio file (57 minutes, 35 seconds): WAV (297 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (40.5 MB).

Notes on container: Sonny Rollins; hall guitar; God Bless the Child; Japanese camp; [Pablo?] Casals class; Gould plays Bach. Mozart - clarinet; Kech; Brahms.

Digital audio

Tape 71.

Side 1, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 6 minutes): WAV (341 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (46.5 MB).

Notes on container: Catulli Carmina, Carl Orff; Vienna Chamber Choir; Helreiser cord[?]; Stravinsky.

Digital audio

Side 2, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 6 minutes): WAV (341 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (43.3 MB).

Notes on container: Stravinsky; Let Your Hair Hang Down; Jackson County painting, sculpture; Berg; [Anton?] Webern; Eric Hofer.

Digital audio

Tape 72.

Side 1: Radio programs, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 1 minute): WAV (318 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (43.3 MB).

John Gates, Communist Party member for 27 years, tells why he left the party. Next, The Story of Transportation hosted by Cedric Adams. The program describes how Minnesota was developed by the various modes of transportation--from steamboats to horses to Greyhound buses.

Digital audio

Side 2: Artists interviewed by Meridel Le Sueur, 1958. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 1 minute): WAV (316 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (43 MB).

Meridel is in conversation with Mac about art and artists. Later, Lorraine, Mac's wife (Lorraine), and Mark (son) join in the conversation to discuss a paper Mark had written. Later they discuss documenting history, why Meridel does it, and how Lorraine should, but won't.

Digital audio

Tape 73.

Side 1, undated. 1 master audio file (51 minutes, 21 seconds): WAV (265 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (36.1 MB).

Notes on container: David practicing for bar.

Digital audio

Side 2. 1962. 1 master audio file (53 minutes, 50 seconds): WAV (278 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (37.8 MB).

Notes on container: Passover.

Digital audio

Tape 74.

Side 1, undated. 1 master audio file (11 minutes, 1 second): WAV (56.9 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (7.7 MB).

Notes on container: [Rabbi] Shlomo Carlebach at village sale.

Digital audio

Side 2: Songs, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 6 minutes): WAV (340 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (46.3 MB).

Notes on container: Willow the Wisp, Many Happy Returns, etc.

Digital audio

Tape 75.

Side 1: Interview; speech by Rev. Vincent Harding, 1961. 1 master audio file (1 hiur, 4 minutes): WAV (331 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.1 MB).

Meridel interviewing teachers who will teach in the Freedom Schools.

Next, Meridel interrupts to say that this is an excellent speech given by Reverend Vincent Harding to the Oxford Orientation Group. Harding gives a description of the history of African Americans in America, and also gives a description of White America's response to them. He also describes Mississippi in 1961.

Digital audio

Side 2: Harding speech continues, 1961. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (331 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.1 MB).

Harding describes how difficult things will be in Mississippi; talks about nonviolence. Meridel describes the emotions and fears of those on their way to Mississippi.

Meridel interviews Curtis Hayes about jail treatment and conditions for Blacks in the South. Nonviolence and treatment of white Civil Rights workers in the South is discussed. Nonviolence tactics are also discussed. The tape ends with spiritual music.

Digital audio

Tape 76.

Side 1: Music; interview, undated. 1 master audio file (44 minutes, 12 seconds): WAV (228 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (31 MB).

Meridel sings Swedish songs with a group of singers including the Swedish immigrant she interviewed. Home On The Range is sung in Swedish by everyone.

Digital audio

Side 2: Interview, undated. 1 master audio file (41 minutes, 36 seconds): WAV (215 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (29.2 MB).

A Swedish immigrant describes his work experience in the United States in 1910. Discusses his membership in the Swedish Employee Association and his work experience in a pulp mill.

Digital audio

Tape 77.

Side 1: Broadcast; conversations at a party, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 2 minutes): WAV (322 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (43.8 MB).

An Oral Roberts program begins this side.

Then, several conversations are heard: men talk about Harry Dunbar in North Dakota; a woman talks about having a job cleaning horseradish, about the May Day celebration, and about getting involved in workers' movement; men talk about the Socialist Party; and a man tells Meridel about the Sun Dance he participated in.

Woman talks about Pat (Slim) Harris, who gave her books to read.

Digital audio

Side 2: Interview; music, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 2 minutes): WAV (322 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (43.8 MB).

First, opera music is heard.

Then Meridel interviews farmers who are milking cows; more music follows the interviews. Alfa and Jill Smith play piano and sing often throughout.

More music, featuring the Russian Metropolitan Choir of Paris.

Digital audio

Tape 78.

Side 1: Family gathering; various conversations, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 3 minutes): WAV (328 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.7 MB).

Meridel's birthday is being celebrated by Deb's family. The children recite poetry, a woman reads a poem, The House With The Broken Heart. Another conversation with Yank Levine follows the party segment. Next, Meridel talks about roughing it in a cabin for a week. More poetry reading follows, among the poems To The Memory of Albert Einstein. Sarah Wright reads a poem by Lucy Smith from Smith's book, No Middle Ground (1955). Woody sings the Ballad of Davy Crockett.

Digital audio

Side 2: Various conversations, undated. 1 master audio file (52 minutes, 15 seconds): WAV (270 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (36.7 MB).

First, a segment with Deb's classroom in Princeton; children sing.

Then Meridel talks about members who made up the Non-Partisan League. She also talks about Lindbergh in Red Wing, Minnesota. Meridel is intrigued by the writings of Bud Reed. More poetry is recited about struggles of oppressed people, especially blacks. Holland Robert's talk finishes out the recording.

Digital audio

Tape 79.

Side 1: Broadcasts; personal conversations, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 34 minutes): WAV (1.9 GB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (124 MB).

Begins with Meridel talking in the background, then a man sings Kum Ba Ya, My Lord. Next, is a radio program Midnight Special. Terkel interviews some of the writers of the music--folk and protest songs. Next, Meridel has a personal conversation with a woman regarding the death of Meridel's mother. Next, is a conversation about caring for kittens.

Digital audio

Side 2: Various broadcasts, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 26 minutes): WAV (1.8 GB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (114 MB).

First, a woman reads descriptions of parts of California.

Next, a man gives a speech recognizing the pioneering spirit of those who started the Budget-Rent-A-Car Company. The people who took the idea of Budget-Rent-A-Car and built it into what it is today are described as new pioneers.

Next, a radio program describes the history and horrors of the Spanish Civil War in the 1930s. Jazz music follows the Spanish Civil War segment.

Next, Terkel interviews a troubled teenager, Rose, who writes poetry.

Finishes out with Bob Dylan, then Frank Sinatra singing.

Digital audio

Tape 80.

Side 1: Broadcast, 1983. 1 master audio file (49 minutes, 48 seconds): WAV (145 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (35 MB).

A program that Meridel and Barbra Tilsen gave at the Thompson Recital Hall, Bemidji State University, Bemidji, Minnesota. It was broadcast on KBSB, 89.7 radio. Barbra sings Freedom Rights, a song about three women who organized protests. Meridel tells the audience that Barbra is married to her beloved grandson, and that they are traveling with Barbra's new baby, three-month-old Molly. Meridel dedicates this show to Our Grandmothers. Meridel says she began to write as a girl of ten years; she realized women had no voice. Meridel then reads Hush My Little Grandmother. Meridel recalls trying to get a story about a birth of a child published; the editor said they couldn't publish that kind of experience. Meridel then reads Behold Me. She talks of having twenty-three great grandchildren. Meridel speaks about the saga of corn, then reads Origins of Corn. Next, Barbra sings Waters Of Life, then sings Danke Schoen. Barbra recalls the incident in which James Watt didn't want the Beach Boys at the 4th of July celebration in Washington, D.C. Watt wanted Wayne Newton instead. Barbra sings about this in the song Danke Schoen. Then Meridel speaks of the brutal murder of Mary Anna Kwash by the FBI.

Digital audio

Tape 81.

Side 1: Music from different cultures; Serendipity Singers, undated. 1 master audio file (31 minutes, 41 seconds): WAV (233 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.5 MB).

Most of this side is devoted to ethnic music: Unnaippol vocal and instrumental; Sangeet Gnamama and instrumental; Theruva Theppo and instrumental; Raga Bhairari instrumental; Raga Saarang instrumental; Aag Mere Char Pritam vocal and instrumental; Parmaarth Cha Panth Vikat Nach AAkane vocal and instrumental. The Serendipity Singers sing Don't Let The Rain Come Down.

Digital audio

Tape 83.

Side 1: Classical Music, 1960. 1 master audio file (25 minutes, 45 seconds): WAV (133 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (18.1 MB).

Recording of the Prokofiev violin concerto.

Digital audio

Side 2: Pete Seeger sings folk songs; broadcast; classical music, 1960. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (333 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.3 MB).

Seeger sings songs about war, song written by Black soldiers, Civil War song: John Brown's Body Lies Mouldering in The Grave. He also talks about the Filipino people. Next on this side, a broadcast of a program that pokes fun at Americans and their naivete about sex. Last, classical music to the end.

Digital audio

Tape 84.

Side 1: Classical music; interview; music, undated. 1 master audio file (54 minutes, 24 seconds): WAV (281 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (38.2 MB).

First segment features classical music. Next, Meridel interviews Eunice Caldwell, an older black woman who was jailed during the McCarthy period. Eunice recounts the hunger and hardships she endured. She tells of having to get a food order to buy groceries. A radio program follows the interview segment. The radio program features various types of music: modern vocal, Latin American, rock (Jefferson Airplane), Mexican, classical (Rossi), and Jewish and Italian Renaissance.

Digital audio

Side 2: Interview with Eunice continues, undated. 1 master audio file (53 minutes, 21 seconds): WAV (275 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (37.5 MB).

Eunice recounts her life growing up in the South; her relationship with her father, Jeff; and the hardships African Americans suffered. She talks of the plantation owner who took advantage of her sister and the birth of her sister's illegitimate white child (Titi or Teddy). She describes how the family suffered at the hands of their small community because of the birth of her sister's child. She tells of a man named Lucas who set his dog on her, and of killing the dog with a dagger she carried.

Their family was forced to move to a new community where they faced more hardships. She details the many moves she made because she wanted to raise her two children in the North. Also mentioned are her jobs as a maid for Montgomery Ward and for a call-girl house in Minnesota.

Digital audio

Tape 85.

Side 1: Interview; broadcast; interview, 1960. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 3 minutes): WAV (328 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.7 MB).

Classical music, then an interview with American boys who have joined Castro's movement. The boys believe that Castro's movement is a good cause; they claim they are fighting for world peace. Castro comments that he is very proud of the Americans who are fighting for them; the Castro comments have been dubbed.

Digital audio

Side 2: T.S. Eliot on literary criticism; interview, 1960. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (337 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.9 MB).

T.S. Eliot speaks out on modern literary criticism, saying that each generation makes their own demands on art. He believes that valid interpretation of a literary work must be an interpretation of one's own feelings when read; that is the only valid type of critique. Next, Meridel interviews Sam Davis. Davis tells of selling communist literature to a boy and how the boy's father came to the store and yelled at him. He talks about his involvement with unions, party politics, and the leaders. Davis explains that intellectuals must live with the workers in order to know what the workers are going through. He tells about the FBI investigating him. Davis discusses the DFL party, the woman who organized the YMCA, teaching a trade union class, Marxism, organizing people, company stool pigeons, and farmers--large versus small. The last part of this tape features an interview by Meridel.

Digital audio

Tape 86: Lecture at The University Of Minnesota, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 32 minutes): WAV (1.9 GB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (124 MB).

Martin Robb introduces Meridel to an audience at the University of Minnesota. Robb gives a brief, informative description of Meridel's life up to the present time. Meridel was a stunt girl for Pearl White, and a writer for West End Press. Meridel writes for and about children, Indians, and women. The FBI has been her most captive audience. Meridel begins talking about the Minneapolis Truckers' Strike, then the quality of the recording gets so poor that it is difficult to distinguish what's being said.

Digital audio

Tape 87.

Family gathering, 1963. i master audio file (28 minutes, 8 seconds): WAV (145 MB) and i user audiop file: MP3 (19.7 MB).

Deb talks to Phillip and Warren. The boys want to sing two songs they made up: Hush Little Doggy and The Ground Hog.

The next segment is a Christmas gathering--people opening presents and making individual comments. Woody sings an African song then sings Jingle Sells. Ends with music by Joan Baez.

Digital audio

Tape 88.

Family gathering, 1964. 1 master audio file (45 minutes, 5 seconds): WAV (233 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (31.7 MB).

Woody sings a song about a lumberjack; he then sings Scarlet Ribbons. Woody recites the Pledge of Allegiance, counts to ten in three languages, imitates animals sounds. Deb describes the home they live in, and talks about their nice neighbor who is a librarian at the University of Minnesota. She also describes problems some Blacks had at Hunters Park in Oakland, Calif.

Woody sings the Beatles' A Hard Day's Night.

Digital audio

Tape 89.

Side 1: Broadcast, 1954. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (334 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.6 MB).

Narrator reads a story by Dylan Thomas describing Christmas traditions at a boy's home. A segment of classical music follows; featured are Symphony No. 1 in E Minor Opus 39 by Jean Sibelius, music from the Kaloa Dance, music from Macedonia Shepherds, and Maurice Ravel's Concerto For The Left Hand.

Digital audio

Side 2: Broadcast, 1954. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (337 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.8 MB).

First segment highlights Pan American Livestock Expo in Texas in 1954; various breeds of cattle are discussed. Next, music by K. K. Johnson follows. The narrator interviews a horse trainer. The rest of the tape is various radio program excerpts featuring Artie Shaw and Bessie Smith.

Digital audio

Tape 90.

Side 1: Interview with Yank Levine, 1966. 1 master audio file (40 minutes): WAV (833 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (55.7 MB).

Yank tells of his childhood and young adult years in Duluth, Minnesota. He talks about moving to New York and trying to become a comic. This segment ends abruptly. Next, Gary Snyder tells of his childhood and education. He talks about poetry and about living in Japan. He recites poems Rift Raft and The Back County.

Digital audio

Side 2: Personal Conversation, 1966. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (1.3 GB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (85 MB).

Dionne Warwick sings A Message To Michael. Next, Meridel and Deb have a conversation about maturity, family relationships, and sibling rivalry. They also discuss people not fitting into a certain structured society; White versus Indian culture. The tape ends with Deb talking about domestic business (house payments).

Digital audio

Tape 91.

Side 1: Interview With Roz Lindesmith, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (337 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.5 MB).

Lindesmith recounts her involvement in the organization of the Workers Movement on the University of Minnesota campus in the 1940s. She helped form the Communist Club on campus, and helped organize the youth in Brainerd, Minnesota. She tells of getting N.Y.A. projects for the youth, and of protesting Mussolini's invasion of Ethiopia during World War II. She also discusses her efforts to organize Local 665 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Digital audio

Side 2: Lindesmith interview continues; broadcast, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 3 minutes): WAV (326 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.4 MB).

Lindesmith relates the problems with the State Liquor Control issue, and the problems Mr. Swan had with the Dunn brothers. The next segment is a broadcast of a play (Julius Caesar), followed by classical music.

Digital audio

Tape 92.

Child talking, undated. 1 master audio file (34 minutes, 51 seconds): WAV (180 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (24.5 MB).

A child telling a story.

Digital audio

Tape 93.

Side 1: Family conversations, undated. 1 master audio file (44 minutes, 9 seconds): WAV (228 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (31 MB).

Rachel and Deb tell about places they visited on their trip to San Francisco. Most of the children and family members talk. Woody is the baby heard in the background. Bernie talks about his illness and his stay in the hospital.

Digital audio

Side 2: Family conversations, undated. 1 master audio file (54 minutes, 32 seconds): WAV (282 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (38.3 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 95.

Side 1: Bird sounds; interview, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 6 minutes): WAV (341 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (46.5 MB).

Meridel has an interview with Frank Engman. Frank talks about his days in the state legislature; then he talks about campaigning, passing bills, and working with the governor.

Digital audio

Side 2: Broadcast; interviews, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 8 minutes): WAV (351 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (47.8 MB).

Various portions of conversations and radio programs. Then Meridel interviews elderly women, who talk about their families. Al Knutson talks about how he and Edwards were tarred and feathered out West. He talks about his involvement in the Socialist Party.

Digital audio

Tape 96.

Side 1: Music; conversations, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 3 minutes): WAV (326 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.4 MB).

Tape begins with classical music; then a man sings I Owe My Soul to the Company Store. Next, a radio program describes Christmas and the use of piñatas. Clarence describes how small farmers are being driven off their land. Then a woman talks about FBI (snoopers), and an attack on workers in 1955. Elmer talks about homesteading in North Dakota, and about going to his brother's funeral.

Digital audio

Side 2: Broadcast; party conversations, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 2 minutes): WAV (321 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (43.6 MB).

Begins with a radio program about the Lindbergh baby kidnapping; then various other radio programs are heard. Next is a going-away party for Susie Stageberg. Susie gives a speech, sings in Norwegian, and talks about the need to end the arms race. A man speaks briefly; then more music follows.

Digital audio

Tape 97.

Side 1: Jazz music and artists, 1955. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (336 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.7 MB).

Meridel begins by saying she has just returned from seeing the ocean in the year of our Lord 1955. Next, a recording of tap dancers and various jazz artists playing or singing their music. A man gives his definition of jazz. Music by Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, and Dizzy Gillespie is featured.

Digital audio

Side 2: Poetry reading; jazz music; classical music, 1955. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (336 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.7 MB).

Meridel introduces Sarah Wright, who reads a poem written by Lucy Smith. The poem deals with men who have known violence and can never go home.

The rest features jazz interpretation of Sky Lark, Sarah Vaughn singing September Song, and classical music.

Digital audio

Tape 98.

Side 1: Personal telephone conversations; music, undated. 1 master audio file (26 minutes, 19 seconds): WAV (136 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (18.5 MB).

Deborah talks with a man who was waiting for puppies to be born. Lucile's conversation with a woman who is ill (very private conversation). Lucile talks with Meridel and Deborah. Deborah discusses travel plans. The segment features pop music and opera.

Digital audio

Side 2: Classical music, undated. 1 master audio file (31 minutes, 34 seconds): WAV (163 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (22.2 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 99.

Side 1: Harry Mayville interview, 1956. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 36 minutes): WAV (496 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (67.5 MB).

Mayville talks about how his father escaped from prison and how his father was helped by African Americans. Mayville relates trying to get a priest to bury an infant child. Another man talks about working conditions for glassblowers. The art of glassblowing is discussed. The hardships of workers and various strikes are also discussed.

Digital audio

Side 2: More interviews and conversations, 1956. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 31 minutes): WAV (473 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (64.3 MB).

Tape begins with a continuation of the previous interview. Strikes and farm problems are discussed: farmers dealing with the governor, trying to get farm relief money. A woman recounts the United Action Paper and Flour City Strike.

Woody sings. Then strikes are discussed again.

Digital audio

Tape 100: Music, 1960. 1 master audio file (27 minutes, 3 seconds): WAV (279 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (38 MB).

Recording of Concerto for Violin and Orchestra by William Walton, Jasha Heifetz, violinist, and the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra conducted by Eugene Goosens.

Digital audio

Tape 101.

Side 1: Music, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 3 minutes): WAV (328 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.6 MB).

Begins with Alice Faye singing I Don't Care, Shine On Harvest Moon, Give My Regards To Broadway, You'll Never Know. Then Alice Faye sings a duet with Dean Martin. Next, Jimmy Durante sings I've Grown Accustomed to Your Face. Next Bessie Smith sings When You Take Me For a Buggy Ride, and Do Your Duty. Irish music follows: talking and singing about Ireland and whiskey.

Then Lightning Smith sings and plays the blues on the guitar; mentions being in prison. The tape ends with several songs sung by Bessie Smith.

Digital audio

Side 2: Music, undated. 1 master audio file (53 minutes, 51 seconds): WAV (278 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (37.8 MB).

Begins with Bessie Smith singing, followed by classical music. Next, Japanese music in the background while a man talks about women: Women are stuck with versatile chaos. The rest of the tape features Japanese or Eastern music, most of it instrumental, and some bongo drum music.

Digital audio

Tape 102. undated. 1 master audio file (52 minutes, 4 seconds): WAV (269 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (36.6 MB).

Scenes 1 and 9 from Gertrude Stein's opera Saints. The majority of the tape is Bucci's modern opera, sung in English. The opera concerns a man whose wife and friends worship him as a hero, although he has secretly committed murder. The opera is a satire on modern-day marriage.

Digital audio

Tape 103.

Side 1: Music; discussion with Ben Shawn; discussion of works by Henry Moore, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 3 minutes): WAV (328 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.6 MB).

First segment is music, classical and pop. Next, Shawn relates his experiences as an artist. He discusses how an artist takes his ideas, jots them down in a notebook, then later turns those ideas into a finished work of art. Next, Sir Kenneth Clark narrates a program about Henry Moore, the English sculptor. Music, chamber and Christian, finish out the tape.

Digital audio

Side 2: Conversations at a party, undated. 1 master audio file (40 minutes, 41 seconds): WAV (210 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (28.6 MB).

A man tells of a brilliant reporter who was institutionalized. Louis Sullivan is discussed, how he died penniless using an assumed name. Zero Mostel and his antics are discussed. Meridel discusses her scholarship to Wisconsin in 1931. The horrors in the Nazi concentration camps are discussed. The blacklisting of actors is also discussed.

Digital audio

Tape 104.

Side 1: Tribute to Martin Luther King, Jr., 1967. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 36 minutes): WAV (501 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (68.1 MB).

Rev. Robert English delivers a stirring eulogy followed by the playing of music. Then, a memorial service for Iron Range organizer Martin Mackie on November 19, 1967. Next, a priest gives a eulogy, a woman recites a poem, and a man describes what kind of man Martin Mackie was. A soloist sings The Impossible Dream followed by more music. A break in the tape follows, then the tribute to Martin Luther King, Jr., continues as the last speech that Dr. King gave is played for the congregation. Jim Farmer, a friend of Dr. King's, states that racism must stop and that Dr. King's dream must be realized. Farmer declares that Dr. King's philosophy of nonviolence should be adopted to end racism. The tape ends with the Morehouse College Glee Club singing.

Digital audio

Side 2: Tribute to Martin Luther King, Jr. continues, 1967. 1 master audio file (32 minutes, 38 seconds): WAV (168 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (22.9 MB).

Taped from television. A television announcer describes the funeral procession from Morehouse College to Ebenezer Baptist Church. Many spirituals are sung, as well as prayers recited, and eulogies given. The congregation sings We Shall Overcome.

Digital audio

Tape 105.

Side 1: Interview with El Duke de Aragon, 1965. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minues): WAV (338 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (46.1 MB).

Some parts of conversations are intimate. El Duke talks about visiting Carl Herrigan. Herrigan's grandson says "Grandad, is this dirty Mexican giving you time?" El Duke has words with Carl Herrigan. El Duke talks about how the land was stolen from the Native Americans by the Mexicans and the Americans; his involvement with the Poor People's Campaign; how important the "cause" is; how he's looking for a leader; and things in his life that have made him hard.

Meridel makes important comments about how Native Americans could demand their land back, how the African American movement has shown Anglos what dignity of race and national pride mean. Meridel discusses Nixon's Southeast Asia policies. El Duke continues talking. He speaks of his German brother-in-law, his relationships with women, his experiences during World War II, his rejection of religion, and of the men who were wounded during World War II and ended up as "zombies" in mental hospitals.

The tape ends with Johnny Cash singing a song about Chief Big Foot and the Battle at Wounded Knee, South Dakota.

Digital audio

Side 2: Music, 1965. 1 master audio file (13 minutes, 11 seconds): WAV (68 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (9.2 MB).

Johnny Cash sings I'm Busted. Then June Carter Cash introduces her family, and they all sing. Cash and Carter sing Jackson.

Digital audio

Tape 107.

Side 1: Children and freedom; school, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (332 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.2 MB).

Digital audio

Side 2: National educational television directors award, 1962. 1 master audio file (29 minutes, 28 seconds): WAV (152 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (20.7 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 108.

Side 1: Retape of interviews for lecture, undated. 1 master audio file (46 minutes, 15 seconds): WAV (239 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (32.5 MB).

Digital audio

Side 2: Lissa, Ethel, Maurice; general conversation; Bill, Edith, Schuckman children, 1957. 1 master audio file (36 minutes, 42 seconds): WAV (189 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (25.8 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 109.

Side 1: Folk songs (Greenwood); Gene Bluester[?]; analysis of Beethoven quartet, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 1 minute): WAV (310 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (43.2 MB).

Digital audio

Side 2: Flamenco; [Heitor?] Villa-Lobos; church music; French [Ella Reeve] Mother Bloor opera, Schubert quartet, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 2 minutes): WAV (317 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (43.5 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 110, undated. 1 master audio file (20 minutes): WAV (409 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (27 MB).

Debbie and Rachel Le Sueur and Josie are discussing mother/daughter relationships, influences on children, independence, drug culture, and parental concerns.

Digital audio

Tape 111: Family conversations, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (119 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.9 MB).

Debbie, Rachel, and Joci discussing mother/daughter relationships, women's movement (benefits and political/community aspects), effects on women's movement after World War I and World War II, and facilitation of life due to women's movement.

Digital audio

Tape 112.

Side 1: Nikita Kruschev re: Cold War, Berlin, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (337 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.9 MB).

Digital audio

Side 2, undated. 1 master audio file (48 minutes, 36 seconds): WAV (251 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (34.1 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 113.

Side 1: Eithman interview; Hindenburg fire; documentary 1930 Roosevelt; Fred Allen; strikes, sit down; Eleanor Roosevelt [?] on Goethe, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (338 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (46.1 MB).

Digital audio

Side 2: Charlie Oll[?], deportee, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (339 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (46.2 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 114: Family; a little girl who's been to Spain; Brother Leonardo; two evangelists; Martin Garcia; United Farm Workers, undated. 1 master audio file (20 minutes, 30 seconds): WAV (105 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (14.4 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 115.

Side 1: Television program; interview with Mrs. Parky, undated. 1 master audio file (57 minutes, 35 seconds): WAV (297 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (40.5 MB).

Begins with TV program of man reciting poetry while Gene Kelly tap dances. The majority of this side features Meridel interviewing an older woman, Mrs. Parky. Parky speaks about her life, family, family background, Oakland, neighbors, her life as a young girl, and the roles of women at that time. The last few minutes of this side features Kathy playing The Dark Night on the piano.

Digital audio

Side 2: Native American music; TV program, undated. 1 master audio file (59 minutes, 55 seconds): WAV (309 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (42.1 MB).

Begins with Native American music, drums and woman singing. Remainder of the tape is a TV documentary about Beethoven--his life and music.

Digital audio

Tape 116.

Side 1: Agnes and Harry Carrill[?], undated. 1 master audio file (46 minutes, 13 seconds): WAV (238 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (32.5 MB).

Digital audio

Side 2: Household sounds; Irene [Paull?]; Woody; Walter[?], undated. 1 master audio file (50 minutes, 41 seconds): WAV (261 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (35.6 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 117.

Side 1: Conversations concerning civil rights and human rights, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (334 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.5 MB).

Begins with a woman speaking about her family, her life, and work (black woman working for a family at $21/week). Continues with various short clips: children speaking about freedom and civil rights, an evangelist speaking, man speaking about prejudice and black rights in the church, woman speaking about civil rights legislation, segregation, human rights, and various songs (Blessed Be Their Name, Walk With Me, Freedom is a Constant Struggle, We Shall Overcome, Ain't No Use Turning on Your Light, Mighty Cold Morning, Oh Freedom, Go Tell It on The Mountain).

Digital audio

Side 2: Music; interviews; TV programs, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (333 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.4 MB).

Begins with a choir singing (Got to Cross the River, There is Time, Why Do Men Lie Like They Do). Continues with a short two-minute interview of Irene by Meridel. Next, a woman is speaking about a man in a penitentiary: he died July 4th, and the funeral was in Chicago. Continues with background noise and flipping channels on TV. Settles on program about Mao in China. Concludes with songs (Just Say C'est La Vie, Be My Love) and various women speaking about arrests for integration of a public library, April 10th picket line for voter registration, march to courthouse door, and the arrests of protesters.

Digital audio

Tape 118.

Side 1: Interviews; radio programs, undated. 1 master audio file (54 minutes, 11 seconds): WAV (1.1 GB) and user audio file: MP3 (69.8 MB).

Begins with Meridel interviewing Martin Mackie and his wife about a band and various songs. Continues with short clips of songs from radio (Twilight Time, Lollipop) and other radio programs. Next, a twenty-minute interview with Sean O'Casey is recorded from the radio. He discusses his life and work, politics, and other poets and playwrights. The last part of this side is a recited history of the iron ore miners of the Mesabi Range.

Digital audio

Side 2: Radio program; interview, undated. 1 master audio file (54 minutes, 6 seconds): WAV (1.1 GB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (69.5 MB).

Begins with clips from radio, but soon continues with an interview of Martin and his wife. Meridel asks them about their life on the Iron Range. They discuss many aspects of the Range culture, such as the Finnish backgrounds and influences. They also discuss the struggle of the Range workers and the people associated in the movement.

Digital audio

Tape 119.

Side 1: Women for Vietnam (Boldan[?] and Budel[?] at Cambridge); rebel at Berkeley (astronaut), undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 2 minutes): WAV (321 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (43.7 MB).

Digital audio

Side 2: Red Army songs, undated. 1 master audio file (31 minutes, 42 seconds): WAV (163 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (22.3 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 120.

Side 1: Paul Robeson at Carnegie Hall, undated. 1 master audio file (36 minutes, 47 seconds): WAV (190 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (25.8 MB).

Digital audio

Side 2: Festival of carols; Paul Robeson, undated. 1 master audio file (36 minutes, 58 seconds): WAV (190 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (26 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 121: Christmas, 1958. 1 master audio file (32 minutes, 55 seconds): WAV (340 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (46.3 MB).

Notes on container: Family - story of premature baby of rich family.

Digital audio

Tape 122.

Side 1: Music, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (338 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (46 MB).

Notes on container: Sitar solo, Ravi Shankar; harvesting songs; boatmen's songs; drum solo, two parts; boatman's song; card seller; violin solo; patriotic Indian song; sitar and sarod, steel guitar; dance and song; reed; star solo; national anthem.

Digital audio

Side 2: Eve at [?]; Woody; Peter Seeger album; Joan Baez, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (338 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (46.1 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 123.

Side 1: Nelson Peery, 1958. 1 master audio file (19 minutes, 39 seconds): WAV (101 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (13.8 MB).

Notes on container: Mother son and women at party; Nelson Peery, 1958; black organization in Minneapolis.

Digital audio

Side 2: Nelson Peery, 1958. 1 master audio file (51 minutes, 41 seconds): WAV (267 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (36.3 MB).

Notes on container: Poems of nurnus[?] is ever; Nelson evening, August and September.

Digital audio

Tape 124.

Side 1: New Year's party, undated. 1 master audio file (9 minutes, 59 seconds): WAV (51 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (7 MB).

Notes on container: Greetings; Fred Vin[?].

Digital audio

Side 2, undated. 1 master audio file (14 minutes, 10 seconds): WAV (73 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (9.9 MB).

Notes on container: Wilbur singing; Leany and Sherrel; WPA song; party at house for Fred and Doris.

Digital audio

Tape 125.

Side 1: Interview concerning political parties, undated. 1 master audio file (25 minutes, 43 seconds): WAV (132 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (18.1 MB).

Meridel interviews two men. They discuss socialism, socialism in relation to health care and housing, Democratic traditions, farmers in North Dakota, farm/union people, and socialist papers.

Digital audio

Side 2: Music, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (332 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.3 MB).

Side 2 contains classical music and opera, violins and piano.

Digital audio

Tape 126: Family Christmas, 1958. undated. 1 master audio file (5 minutes, 52 seconds): WAV ( MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (8.2 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 127: Madge [Hawkins]; typing, children try on little machine, undated. 1 master audio file (29 minutes, 24 seconds): WAV (60 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (20.6 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 128.

Side 1: Live interviews; radio interviews; music, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (334 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.5 MB).

Begins with Meridel interviewing a man and Rachel's dog barking. Continues with Morris telling the story of how he met Meridel. Next, a man tells about living and working in the South. Next, a radio interview featuring a woman who sings with Billy Graham's Crusade Choir. Concludes with a dramatization about students who were jailed. It includes their trial, time spent in jail, and comments by the students. Some spiritual music is also included in the dramatization (We Shall Overcome).

Digital audio

Side 2: Radio interview; music, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (331 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.1 MB).

This side is a continuation of side 1. It begins with We Shall Overcome, and the narrator talking about the black movement in Nashville. The majority of the tape is filled with spirituals (If I Had A Hammer, People on Big South Land, Hold On, Did My Lord Deliver, Mr. Wood, Mr. Boatman, Chains Round My Shoulder, Stay Down, We Shall Overcome).

Digital audio

Tape 129.

Side 1: Conversations and interviews, undated. 1 master audio file (31 minutes, 6 seconds): WAV (160 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (21.8 MB).

Begins with a radio program in which Meridel's book about Abe Lincoln, River Road, is presented. Excerpts are read and a student panel from St. Paul question Meridel about her book. Continues with children singing Davy Crockett. Concludes with Frank talking about his life and family. He talks about his father (a Methodist minister), the Methodist church, fifth-day prayer meetings at school, becoming a preacher, teaching, revival meetings, and a man who was put out of the church because he married a white woman.

Digital audio

Side 2: Music, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 2 minutes): WAV (162 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (22.1 MB).

Contains classical music. Theme and variation movement of a Schubert quintet recorded at Aspen Musical Festival, and Glukes concerto in O major, the Vienna Symphony Orchestra.

Digital audio

Tape 130.

Side 1, undated. 1 master audio file (24 minutes, 33 seconds): WAV (507 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (32.4 MB).

Notes on container: Mrs. Peake at White Earth Reservation; revival; Clarence S., North Dakota; Dave; Sam - homed Roosevelt; Dave's wife talks.

Digital audio

Side 2, undated. 1 master audio file (24 minutes, 25 seconds): WAV (505 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (31.9 MB).

Box labeled as: Milking shed; Roz[?] children at park; music; party - Finnish lullaby and Lucy; Lucy and Wilbur; Norwegian singer and instrument.

Digital audio

Tape 131.

Side 1, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (333 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.3 MB).

Notes on container: Martin Luther King, Jr.; Woody Guthrie; poets Dickey, Muriel Rukeyser, and Peter Veirich[?].

Digital audio

Side 2, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 2 minutes): WAV (321 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (43.7 MB).

Notes on container: Marcel Duchamp; choir of Texas church; wind in Vietnam; song of Viet; hallabaloo and Aaron Copeland.

Digital audio

Tape 132.

Side 1: Family correspondence, undated. 1 master audio file (32 minutes, 42 seconds): WAV (169 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (23 MB).

This is a letter to Meridel and Alan from Walter Lowenfels in New Jersey. Walter discusses Native American poetry, folk songs, Chinese poetry, and various cultures in the U.S. He discusses other writers and their influences in poetry. He plays songs by Pete Seeger (Peggin' All, Buffalo Skinners).

Digital audio

Side 2: Continuation of side 1, undated. 1 master audio file (30 minutes, 47 seconds): WAV (159 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (21.6 MB).

Pete Seeger's main point is the juxtaposition of folk songs and poetry. Songs in his original poetry are Whim Away, Skip To My Lou, Blow The Man Down, and the Hammer Song. He also mentions some of his works (The Lovers, American Voices 1 and 2). This Land Was Made For You and Me is played after the letter is closed.

Digital audio

Tape 133: Poetry, 1974. 1 master audio file (32 minutes, 7 seconds): WAV (166 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (22.6 MB).

Notes on container: no labelling. This tape appears to have been mailed from Ingrid Swanbug Aye (Madison, Wisconsin) to Meridel in early January 1974.

Digital audio

Tape 134: Malvina, undated. 1 master audio file (7 minutes, 20 seconds): WAV (37 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (5.1 MB).

Notes on container: Malvina; Monaco.

Digital audio

Tape 135.

Side 1, undated. 1 master audio file (7 minutes, 19 seconds): WAV (37 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (5.1 MB).

Notes on container: audiotape self-mailer. Tape was mailed by Broms (Brooklyn, New York) to Mr. and Mrs. A. Bergman (San Francisco, California).

Digital audio

Side 2, undated. 1 master audio file (6 minutes, 48 seconds): WAV (35 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (4.7 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 136.

Side 1: Native American pow wow, 1957. 1 master audio file (40 minutes, 34 seconds): WAV (209 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (28.5 MB).

Music from a Native American pow wow dominates. Music includes Red Lake Reservation dances (Grass Dance and Hoof Dance). Also includes a variety of Oglala Sioux music.

Digital audio

Side 2: Music and conversation, 1957. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 1 minute): WAV (319 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (43.4 MB).

Odetta sings Christmas songs, among them Mary Had a Baby. An excellent quality drum and single voice Native American song is recorded 3/4 of the way through this tape, side 2. Meridel talks with a friend, Lucile, about Lucile's problems. Lucile, married at 22, has been married 42 years at the time of taping.

Digital audio

Tape 137.

Side 1: Family wedding; radio broadcast, 1966. 1 master audio file (45 minutes, 36 seconds): WAV (235 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (32 MB).

Heather Tilsen (Meridel's granddaughter and Betty Tilsen's daughter) is married to Robert Baum on March 27, 1966. The wedding ceremony and the accompanying music are recorded.

A radio program from KBNM (Albuquerque, New Mexico) contains rock music, including the group Blood, Sweat and Tears.

Digital audio

Side 2: Recorded music, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 2 minutes): WAV (325 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.2 MB).

Includes rock music, and blues. Janis Joplin is one of the featured artists.

Digital audio

Tape 138.

Side 1: Helen Sobell addresses writer's group, 1957. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 37 minutes): WAV (502 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (68.3 MB).

Helen Sobell speaks in Minnesota to encourage writers. She speaks about liberty and freedom and says "Truth very often leads to unpleasant places." She is the wife of Martin Sobell, a scientist incarcerated in Alcatraz, having been convicted as a spy who allegedly carried scientific information to the Russians. In 1957, Martin was 41 years of age and had been in prison since he was 33. Helen reads a letter from Martin where he quotes from the book Great Prisoners, Kafka's The Trial, and Fromm's The Art of Loving. Martin is working on a project to develop a reader for the blind, a machine that could scan text and automatically translate the text to Braille. He faces 30 years in prison despite the fact that not one witness could testify that he did indeed give away secret material to the Russians.

Digital audio

Side 2: Meridel eulogizes Peter Simek, 1988. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 21 minutes): WAV (442 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (57.5 MB).

The Joan of Arc opera is recorded. Meridel speaks the eulogy at Peter Simek's funeral on January 27, 1988. Simek was a union laborer who organized the Soo Line railroad workers. He was a "blacksmith who forged a dream." He fought for unemployment insurance legislation and was a civil rights activist all of his life. A going-away party is held for Susie Stageberg, a writer for the Minnesota Leader.

Digital audio

Tape 139.

Side 1: Music; Meridel interviews Matt Savola, 1956. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 3 minutes): WAV (328 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.7 MB).

La Paloma Singers sing about slavery, peace, and patriotism, including the songs A Song of Peace, Now, Right Now, and Jailhouse Door. Meridel interviews Matt Savola who says that the land is poor and that resources have been depleted in the Upper Midwest, especially in Minnesota, Michigan, and Wisconsin. Savola says the answer is to start a reforestation project. He also tells the story of being exonerated from accusations of being a communist. "The poor man's patriotism is the rich man's treason," Savola says. In describing a lumber worker's strike, "the boys demand a cent a foot and butter in the bowls or else they will strike." During one strike, the workers were providing food by hunting deer and fishing, but they violated game limits. After several weeks of full county jails, the sheriff decided it was costing the taxpayers too much to keep the men, so he gave the strikers permission to hunt and fish. A speaker discusses the Wisconsin Communist Party.

Digital audio

Side 2: Conversation about student communist groups, undated. 1 master audio file (58 minutes, 10 seconds): WAV (300 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (40.9 MB).

A speaker recounts how the communist student group at the University of Wisconsin dissolved, then three months later had to reconvene because they saw nothing progressive happening. A woman in the group contends that the Communist Party has done a magnificent job of isolating itself. It has taken her five years to become accepted by women in her neighborhood. Recent events abroad (e.g., Hungary) have made things difficult for the party.

Digital audio

Tape 140.

Side 1: Radio program; poetry, undated. 1 master audio file (41 minutes, 58 seconds): WAV (216 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (29.5 MB).

Begins with radio music; two women recite a poem. Then a man talks about the Saga of Corn. More poetry recitation about corn. Meridel talks to a woman and asks, "Do you have any Detroit songs?"

Next portion is poorly recorded and inaudible. In the last part, Meridel interviews a man about another man who was a petty thief, but could have been a boy scout.

Digital audio

Side 2: Music; interviews, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 2 minutes): WAV (324 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.1 MB).

Begins with woman playing guitar and singing songs. Some of the songs sung are Pied Piper of Hamlin, Moving Time Ride, and Across the Hills of Hay; and her own versions of Love Me Tender and Que Sera, Sera. Talks and sings about "oppression" in marriage. Then Meridel interviews an old man who mentions the IWW. Meridel talks about her children and her relationship with them. She tells how her daughter Deborah has been active in union organizing. Man talks about farming and reflects on his life.

Digital audio

Tape 141: Music, undated. 1 master audio file (16 minutes, 44 seconds): WAV (86 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (11.7 MB).

Begins with music. Accompanying paperwork says, Roy Harris Symphony (1938-1939), Boston Symphony Orchestra conducted by Serge Koussevitsky.

Digital audio

Tape 142: Music, undated. 1 master audio file (22 minutes, 59 seconds): WAV (237 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (32.3 MB).

Begins with Eugene Ormandy conducting the Philadelphia Orchestra's performance of Hindemith, Mathias the Painter. Program notes included in 144.J.1.2F box 37.

Digital audio

Tape 143.

Side 1: Music, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (340 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (46.3 MB).

Begins with classical music, then Black gospel or spiritual music.

Digital audio

Side 2: Radio program discussing writers' shaping of Nebraska, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 2 minutes): WAV (324 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.1 MB).

Radio program (Shenandoah) plays in the background. Next a program discussing how writers helped shape Nebraska; topics are the strength of the pioneers, and Crazy Horse's death. A man is interviewed about when he first met Willa Cather. He describes her when she was a thirteen-year-old girl and had just begun to write.

Digital audio

Tape 144.

Side 1: Classroom discussion, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 11 minutes): WAV (368 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (50.1 MB).

Deb is interviewing her students after Meridel had come to talk to the class. The children are asked what most impressed them about Meridel. Most students mentioned Meridel's silver necklace made by Navajo Indians. The children tell what Meridel said about writing a book.

Meridel told the children her favorite book was the story of Nancy Hanks, Abe Lincoln's mother. Meridel also told the children she wrote about things she thought were true. Meridel says you could write about a worm.

Digital audio

Side 2: Music (Pete Seeger), undated. 1 master audio file (40 minutes, 9 seconds): WAV (207 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (28.1 MB).

Pete Seeger talks about a Cuban poet/writer who wrote Guantanamera then sings it himself. This is followed by folk music: Irish ballads and songs sung in Gaelic.

Digital audio

Tape 145.

Side 1: Various interviews, undated. 1 master audio file (59 minutes, 27 seconds): WAV (307 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (41.8 MB).

Meridel interviews Paula Zimmering. They discuss Jewish religion and marriage contracts. Meridel talks about some of her favorite authors, Chaim Potok and Mark Twain. Meridel says, "marriage is supposed to be gentle, but yet ends up being violent." Meridel talks about her children. Meridel has a personal conversation with friends.

Woman talks about her life in Sweden as a girl, how she married and eventually came to Minneapolis to live. She tells how her husband managed to get to Minneapolis; he biked from New York to Detroit, then took the train to Minneapolis. He sold raincoats for a living. The woman came to Minneapolis with children and told of adjustment problems in Minnesota. The couple had been married 50 years, 30 of which were "honeymoon" years.

Digital audio

Side 2: Family conversation; political meetings, undated. 1 master audio file (59 minutes, 3 seconds): WAV (201 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (27.4 MB).

Begins with Meridel and family members laughing and talking.

Then a man discusses how to strengthen the socialist movement. He suggests we do away with bureaucracy in Democratic centralism and incorporate Blacks into the group. The party should work toward peace. Another man discusses how best to work in resolutions at the convention in the Twin Cities. The proposed convention agenda is discussed. This is followed by Meridel talking to her family about red squirrels.

Digital audio

Tape 146.

Side 1: Interviews, 1963. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 11 minutes): WAV (1.5 GB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (92.4 MB).

Meridel interviews a Black woman who talks about the need to educate our children. Meridel says "Lincoln said, 'God must have liked poor people, because he made so many of them'." Meridel also quotes Lincoln, "A nation cannot be half slave and half free." Meridel says the workers are the ones who produced the great wealth in the country. Meridel says LBJ lied. Meridel talks about two white women who participated in a march by the Japanese commemorating the anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. Meridel then interviews a Mexican-American.

Digital audio

Side 2: Interviews, continued, 1963. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 2 minutes): WAV (1.3 GB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (80.6 MB).

Meridel begins by talking about the derogatory terms used to describe Native Americans.

Next, a Mexican-American man is interviewed. He talks about discrimination, wealth disparity, educational discrimination, and poor working conditions.

This is followed by a woman speaking; she says America is not just the United States, but stretches from Canada to Brazil. Meridel agrees. Both talk about languages and World War II. The rest of the tape is garbled.

Digital audio

Tape 147.

Side 1: Interview with Madge Hawkins, 1961. 1 master audio file (57 minutes, 58 seconds): WAV (299 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (40.7 MB).

Meridel interviews Madge Hawkins; they talk about religion, and membership in the nonpartisan league. Meridel tells how her grandmother wouldn't allow her to wear bright clothing. Organized religion is discussed. Meridel says, "Organized religion is a terrible thing." They discussed Catholicism versus Lutheranism. Madge tells of experiences at Fargo College. Meridel says she loves Oscar Christensen and liked the countryside of Caledonia, Minnesota. Meridel wants someone to do a portrait of Oscar. Madge talks about Wendell's daughter Mary, who was a hippie. Meridel discusses Oscar's paper, the Hoka Chief; Meridel says it's a great paper.

Digital audio

Side 2: Interview with Madge Hawkins continues, 1961. 1 master audio file (58 minutes, 41 seconds): WAV (303 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (41.2 MB).

Conversation with Madge Hawkins continues. Madge talks about knowing the McGlynn family, who were Catholic and lived in a log cabin. Madge went out with Albert (Allis) McGlynn. She discusses Art Le Sueur, and his defense of Allie in Montana. Then Meridel talks about the book, My Antonia. Meridel likes the story about Mrs. Stillman's bachelor friend. Madge talks about her educational background. Madge talks about living and tutoring Florence Davis. Dr. Davis was a hard-working man. A syphilis epidemic is discussed. Meridel tells of a film about syphilis she saw while in high school that scared her.

Madge met Oscar and lived in Dickenson (she was a principal, he a superintendent of schools).

Meridel talks about her book, North Star Country, and lumberjacks.

Digital audio

Tape 148.

Side 1: Interview with Frank Engman, undated. 1 master audio file (57 minutes): WAV (294 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (40.1 MB).

Meridel interviews Frank Engman, who describes his family/parents and childhood. He talks about his parents leaving Sweden, his being born in Michigan, his marrying at age thirty-four, and the hypocrisy of religion.

Meridel suggests he write a book about life, because he has an excellent memory. Meridel thinks Catholicism is a frightening thing. Frank tells how he left home after getting into a fight with his dad, and tells of getting a job through the kindness of strangers. He also talks about getting involved in socialism.

Digital audio

Side 2: Panel discussion about writing; interview with Vic Engman, undated. 1 master audio file (49 minutes, 41 seconds): WAV (256 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (34.9 MB).

Begins with a panel discussion on writing. Then Meridel interviews Vic Engman, who talks about his childhood, his family, his work experiences, and farming. At the time of the interview Vic was 80 years old. He talks about measles, lumberjacks, and about Frank. At the end of the tape, a group of people come in to meet Meridel.

Digital audio

Tape 149.

Side 1: Interview with elderly Swiss woman, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (333 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.3 MB).

Interview with an 87-year-old woman who was born in Switzerland. Her husband was a blacksmith who worked at the Occident Mills in Minneapolis. The woman, who is Lena's mother, has 12 great-grandchildren. The conversation is a group of older women talking about their families and grandchildren. One woman remarks the "the hardest thing is to sit back and let your children take over."

Next, Meridel interviews a man who talks about working conditions, places he lived, and the demise of Duluth. Then a group of men discuss road construction in Minneapolis.

Digital audio

Side 2: Gathering of family and friends, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (333 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.3 MB).

Begins with a conversation at a party. Two men discuss the corn crop. Then a skit depicting the reaffirmation of wedding vows on the 40th anniversary of Lena and Arthur. Meridel recites a poem she wrote commemorating the strength of Lena and Arthur: "Their voices come out of the pine country. Their voice has spoken like the great pines." A man tells a funny story about the honeymoon night. This is followed by the Coleman Writers Conference.

Next, a series of varied conversations: Robin tells a story, Charlie Roth speaks about the hardships of not being able to find a job and old-age compensation, clips from the Arthur Godfrey show, talk about Lipschitz the sculptor, and a poem about puppies.

Digital audio

Tape 150: Interview discussing racism, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 7 minutes): WAV (1.4 GB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (87.8 MB).

Meridel interviews a Black woman who describes the work experience for African Americans, especially the difficult times during the Great Depression. Her husband, Bill, who got a railroad job, fought to have each Black worker's name put on his uniform so that whites couldn't arbitrarily call African Americans names. The woman talks about racism in Minnesota, slavery, sharecropping, her parents, and the difficult life of slaves. The last part of the tape is about the space program Project Mercury orbital flight.

Digital audio

Tape 151.

Side 1: Dedication of the book, The Crusaders, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (669 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (43.4 MB).

Begins with a New York City tribute to Meridel's unveiling of her latest work. Various people talk about Meridel's important contributions to Middle America's heritage and her contribution to recording the history of the populist movement in America. Meridel reads a work from Walt Whitman and pays tribute to the city. Meridel talks about oppressed people and struggles, and about her mother's struggle. Various people sing songs (September Song).

Digital audio

Side 2: Music; conversation about Sam Horowitz; various other conversations, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (1.3 GB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (87.3 MB).

Begins with folk music: Irish songs are sung. Then the family of Sam Horowitz gathers to tell him he will be free soon. People talk about injustices done to Sam. Next, Meridel and friends in New York talk about artists, today's music, and the Korean War. Women talk about various art and cultural experiences in New York.

Digital audio

Tape 152.

Side 1: Dylan Thomas, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 8 minutes): WAV (352 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (47.9 MB).

Digital audio

Side 2: Ben and Mark Smith memorial, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 7 minutes): WAV (348 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (47.3 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 153.

Side 1: Music, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 2 minutes): WAV (321 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (43.7 MB).

Begins with accordion music with orchestra in background. Music (radio program) and conversation going on at the same time; people singing.

Digital audio

Side 2: Conversations at a party, undated. 1 master audio file (42 minutes, 48 seconds): WAV (221 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (30.1 MB).

Conversations from a party, people singing.

Digital audio

Tape 154.

Side 1: Interview, undated. 1 master audio file (52 minutes, 58 seconds): WAV (273 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (37.2 MB).

Meridel interviews Harry Rice's brothers, Sam and another one. Brothers talk about life in America and about Harry's boyhood. They discuss Harry as they knew him as a genius and scholar. They discuss Grandpa David, whom the boys in the family did not like. Harry ran away from home because he felt Grandpa David was an abusive man.

Digital audio

Side 2: Family conversation; music, undated. 1 master audio file (48 minutes, 31 seconds): WAV (250 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (34.1 MB).

Begins with a family conversation. A woman talks about childbirth, followed by classical music. More family conversation. The rest of the tape is difficult to understand; there seem to be problems with the recording speed.

Digital audio

Tape 155.

Side 1: Dylan Thomas, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (332 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.2 MB).

Digital audio

Side 2: [?] woman, Navajo nurse, undated. 1 master audio file (56 minutes, 51 seconds): WAV (293 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (39.9 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 156.

Side 1: Music; interview with Helen Gallagher, undated. 1 master audio file (45 minutes, 50 seconds): WAV (236 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (32.2 MB).

Begins with recording of Haitian drum music, a man is interviewed about the various sounds obtained from this type of drum. Next, Meridel interviews Helen Gallagher about her involvement with the IWW. Helen discusses the ideological ideas that grew into the IWW. One example, "all textile workers should organized under one union." She talks about the slogan, "I Won't Work," and the name Wobblies. Wobblies was considered a derogatory label. W. Thompson, a management stool pigeon, is discussed; he was planted in unions to spy on them. IWW members who were sentenced to San Quentin Prison are discussed.

Digital audio

Side 2: Music; politics, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 2 minutes): WAV (322 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (43.8 MB).

Starts with a party and the group sings Down By the Riverside. Next, people sing Irish songs, including Wearing of the Green, followed by some anti-war songs. Then, people pay tribute to Pat Gleason. The rest of the tape features an older man talking about organizing the Non-Partisan League, fight for free speech, Committee of the 48th, and the Star Newspaper Fight.

Digital audio

Tape 157.

Side 1, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (337 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.9 MB).

Notes on container: John Hendricks, good jazz.

Digital audio

Side 2: Madge Hawkins, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (337 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.1 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 158.

Side 1: Anti-war conversations, 1958. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (331 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.1 MB).

Begins with Meridel reciting My Minnesota. Talks about the strength of Midwestern pioneers. Then group sings We're Going to Live in Peace and Freedom; more freedom and anti-war songs are sung. Next, a Midwestern adult cowboy show is performed with much singing. More anti-war songs and party conversation until the end of the tape.

Digital audio

Side 2: Music; poems, undated. 1 master audio file (35 minutes, 48 seconds): WAV (185 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (25.2 MB).

Begins with man singing Shalom. Then Marty Montgomery reads a poem written by a 15-year-old boy, entitled The Mission. Meridel summarizes Verdi's La Traviatta; someone sings and plays piano. Group sings protest songs, including Solidarity Forever.

Digital audio

Tape 159.

Side 1: Interview about labor strikes, undated. 1 master audio file (51 minutes, 56 seconds): WAV (268 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (36.5 MB).

Meridel interviews an elderly man [Mercklegoh?] in his 80s. The man recalls his involvement in the hay market riot/strike. He was a farmer; life was difficult on the farm. He and Meridel talk about poetry; he recites some of his poetry. He talks about his father dying, meeting his wife, and their life together. They had been married 50 years.

Digital audio

Side 2: Radio program on Ireland's politics, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 2 minutes): WAV (324 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.1 MB).

Begins with a radio or TV program. DeValera, the former Prime Minister of Ireland is being interviewed. He talks about the Irish people and their right to self-determination. Much of what he says coincides with the determination of Black people to gain equality. Next, classical music. Then Meridel interviews a man involved in maritime unions; man talks about the Clark Decision and how it was used to bust unions.

Digital audio

Tape 160.

Side 1: Lewis Tweit (Forbes, North Dakota); Indian battle; Farmers' Alliance; Nonpartisan League, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 5 minutes): WAV (336 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.7 MB).

Digital audio

Side 2: Lewis Tweit; cricket, undated. 1 master audio file (46 minutes, 11 seconds): WAV (238 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (32.4 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 161.

Side 1: Interview with Madge Hawkins, 1968 [1961?]. 1 master audio file (48 miutes, 38 seconds): WAV (1 GB) and 1 user audio file (48 minutes): MP3 (65.3 MB).

Continuation of interview with Madge Hawkins. Meridel was on the picket line in 1935 when the Strutware Knitting Company went on strike. Governor Olson's funeral is discussed. People on relief in the Dakotas during the Dust Bowl era are discussed. Meridel's comments on people's intelligence: ninety percent of us don't think; three percent reason. Working people are intelligent because they have experienced life rather than reading about life. Blacks do not reflect illusions of ruling class. Real intelligence is present in the people who can actually do something, rather than talk about it.

Madge talks about how she and Oscar finally left the Socialist Party. Meridel wants someone to write a book about Vince Dunn; she thinks he's an interesting man. Meridel says one hundred people from Minnesota went to Spain to fight in the Spanish Civil War. Talks about the Moorish influence in Spain. Meridel mentions she has a whole notebook on George Lund's activities in Spain. Meridel talks about Third-World nations as the next real power; she says more people have died in 'silent' wars instead of real wars. Meridel talks about the many injustices in the world and uses the analogy of suppressed steam from an engine. Meridel says, "There is no suffering worse than ignorance."

Digital audio

Side 2: Discussions about politics, undated. 1 master audio file (48 minutes, 32 seconds): WAV (1 GB) and 1 user audio file (48 minutes): MP3 (64.4 MB).

Two men discuss the feud between Hillman and Murray. Elmer talks about meeting President Harry Truman and discusses Truman. Talks about famous people who were on various committees. Then Madge and Meridel talk, Meridel talks about our need for roots and goals.

Digital audio

Tape 162.

Side 1: Madge Hawkins, October 1968. 1 master audio file (54 minutes, 25 seconds): WAV (281 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (38.2 MB).

Digital audio

Side 2: Quartet; folk songs, undated. 1 master audio file (29 minutes, 59 seconds): WAV (154 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (21.1 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 163.

Side 1: Interview with Madge Hawkins, October 1961. 1 master audio file (57 minutes, 49 seconds): WAV (298 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (40 MB).

Meridel's interview with Madge Hawkins continues. Madge talks about her life in Staples, Minnesota, the Irish immigrants, and her teaching career. Meridel mentions Aldrich's book, The Lantern On The Plow.

Digital audio

Side 2: Madge Hawkins interview continues, October 1961. 1 master audio file (32 minutes, 26 seconds): WAV (167 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (22.8 MB).

Continuation of Hawkins interview; subjects discussed include Oscar's experience on the library board, definition of communism, class alliance, education, teaching children, pension laws, and house payments.

Digital audio

Tape 164.

Side 1: [Madge Hawkins?], undated. 1 master audio file (48 minutes, 43 seconds): WAV (251 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (34.2 MB).

Digital audio

Side 2: [Madge Hawkins?], undated. 1 master audio file (44 minutes, 6 seconds): WAV (227 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (31 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 165

Side 1: African women, undated. 1 master audio file (29 minutes, 57 seconds): WAV (154 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (21.1 MB).

Notes on container: Africa; Negro women: Malinke tribe (Occidental Africa), Baoule tribe (West Africa), Yoruba tribe (Lagos Nigeria), Swahili tribe (East Coast, north to Mozambique, Sudanese, Ganda tribe (Uganda), Lonzo and Ekonda tribes (Congo), Tabwa tribe (Southeast Congo).

Digital audio

Side 2: Pete Seeger, undated. 1 master audio file (51 minutes, 3 seconds): WAV (263 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (36 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 166.

Side 1: Al Knutson, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (334 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.5 MB).

Digital audio

Side 2: Al Knutson, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 3 minutes): WAV (328 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.7 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 167.

Side 1: Music; Pabo Casals, undated. 1 master audio file (50 minutes, 56 seconds): WAV (263 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (35.8 MB).

Digital audio

Side 2: German composer; Stackhouse lecture undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (333 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.3 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 168. undated.

Side 1: Music, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 1 minute): WAV (314 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (42.7 MB).

Classical music (Mozart).

Digital audio

Side 2: Conversations about immigrants, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (330 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.9 MB).

Begins with radio or TV program about Nebraska pioneers. Then a man [Luigo Nona?] describes hardships of Czech immigrants. Man talks about leaving his homeland in 1890 and working in America. More classical music until the end of the tape.

Digital audio

Tape 169.

Side 1: Harry Mayville, undated. 1 master audio file (58 minutes, 15 seconds): WAV (301 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (41 MB).

Notes on container: Harry Mayville, Minneapolis labor organizer.

Digital audio

Side 2: Harry Mayville, undated. 1 master audio file (59 minutes, 9 seconds): WAV (305 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.8 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 170.

Side 1: Poem at Philly[?]; Joffe; powerful lecture Colfax; Walter Lowenfels, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 3 minutes): WAV (329 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.8 MB).

Digital audio

Side 2: Lowenfels lecture, undated. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 3 minutes): WAV (329 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.8 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 171.

Side 1: Mike Gold, 1967. 1 master audio file (41 minutes, 13 seconds): WAV (213 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (29 MB).

Notes on container: Mike Gold memorial; 66th birthday readings, play, speeches.

Digital audio

Side 2: Mike Gold, 1967. 1 master audio file (41 minutes, 14 seconds): WAV (213 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (29 MB).

Notes on container: Mike Gold memorial; 66th birthday readings, play, speeches.

Digital audio

Tape 172.

Side 1: Poems, undated. 1 master audio file (9 minutes, 3 seconds): WAV (46 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (6.3 MB).

Notes on container: Roy Small[?], Dylan Thomas.

Digital audio

Side 2: Poems, undated. 1 master audio file (9 minutes, 1 second): WAV (46 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (6.3 MB).

Notes on container: [John?] Ciardi, Meridel.

Digital audio

Tape 173, undated.

Side 1. 1 master audio file (46 minutes, 44 seconds): WAV (483 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (65.7 MB).

Digital audio

Side 2. 1 master audio file (34 minutes, 23 seconds): WAV (355 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (48.3 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 174, undated.

Greek songs; discussion or lecture by an unidentified German educator; music.

Side 1. 1 master audio file (32 minutes, 12 seconds): WAV (332 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.3 MB).

Digital audio

Side 2. 1 master audio file (32 minutes, 12 seconds): WAV (332 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (45.3 MB).

Greek songs; discussion or lecture by an unidentified German educator; music.

Digital audio

Tape 175: Lorraine and Mac Le Sueur's party at Tilsens', 1968.

Side 1. 1 master audio file (15 minutes, 9 seconds): WAV (156 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (21.3 MB).

Digital audio

Side 2. 1 master audio file (29 minutes, 37 seconds): WAV (306 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (41.6 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 176: Hugh De Lacy, August 5, 1972.

Side 1. 1 master audio file (30 minutes, 21 seconds): WAV (313 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (42.6 MB).

Digital audio

Side 2. 1 master audio file (29 minutes, 31 seconds): WAV (305 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (41.5 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 177: songs, June 5, 1974.

Concerto for Women [?] and Mocking Bird in the Moon [?].

Side 1: Songs. 1 master audio file (30 minutes, 48 seconds): WAV (318 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (43.3 MB).

Digital audio

Side 2. 1 master audio file (26 minutes, 12 seconds): WAV (270 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (36.8 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 178: Song, March 24, 1979.

I Am the Meadow (words by Meridel Le Sueur), YWCA.

Side 1. 1 master audio file (19 minutes, 24 seconds): WAV (200 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (27.3 MB).

Digital audio

Side 2. 1 master audio file (20 minutes, 58 seconds): WAV (206 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (29.5 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 179: Annie the Sow, August 22, 1979.

Side 1. 1 master audio file (43 minutes, 50 seconds): WAV (453 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (61.6 MB).

Digital audio

Side 2. 1 master audio file (43 minutes, 48 seconds): WAV (452 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (61.6 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 180, July 15, 1980. 1 master audio file (58 minutes): WAV (835 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (52.8 MB).

Meridel reading poetry and talking with audience; Phiz Puts Some of Corn Village on Tape - For Notes Only, continues interview with Meridel during lunch.

Digital audio

Tape 181: Clarence Sharp's 90th birthday, 1981.

Side 1. 1 master audio file (59 minutes, 17 seconds): WAV (612 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (83.3 MB).

Digital audio

Side 2. 1 master audio file (59 minutes, 14 seconds): WAV (612 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (83.3 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 182: Saint Patrick's Day, March 1981.

Side 1. 1 master audio file (31 minutes, 8 seconds): WAV (321 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (43.7 MB).

Digital audio

Side 2. 1 master audio file (31 minutes, 14 seconds): WAV (322 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (43.9 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 183: Studs Terkel interviews Meridel, April 2, 1982.

Side 1. 1 master audio file (46 minutes, 23 seconds): WAV (479 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (65.2 MB).

Digital audio

Side 2. 1 master audio file (46 minutes, 47 seconds): WAV (483 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (65.8 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 184: Rites of ripening, April 19, 1985.

Side 1. 1 master audio file (31 minutes, 12 seconds): WAV (322 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (43.8 MB).

Lecture at Western College.

Digital audio

Side 2. 1 master audio file (31 minutes, 20 seconds): WAV (323 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.1 MB).

Lecture at Western College.

Digital audio

Tape 185.

Side C: Rites of ripening, April 19, 1985. 1 master audio file (31 minutes, 40 seconds): WAV (327 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.5 MB).

Lecture at Western College.

Digital audio

Side F: The new age of solidarity, April 22, 1985. 1 master audio file (31 minutes, 40 seconds): WAV (327 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.5 MB).

Lecture at Western College.

Digital audio

Tape 186: The new age of solidarity, April 22, 1985.

Side 1. 1 master audio file (31 minutes, 24 seconds): WAV (324 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44.1 MB).

Lecture at Western College.

Digital audio

Side 2. 1 master audio file (31 minutes, 19 seconds): WAV (323 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (44 MB).

Lecture at Western College.

Digital audio

Tape 187: The new age of solidarity, April 22, 1985. 1 master audio file (12 minutes, 36 seconds): WAV (130 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (17.7 MB).

Lecture at Western College.

Digital audio

Tape 188: Meridel remembering, October 24 and 26, 1987. 1 master audio file (1 hour, 4 minutes): WAV (661 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (58.5 MB).

Digital audio

Tape 189: Meridel remembering, October 24 and 26, 1987. 1 master audio file (55 minutes): WAV (570 MB) and 1 user audio file: MP3 (50.5 MB).

Digital audio