The Dr. Robert L. Allen Port Chicago papers contain materials collected in the process of researching and writing about the events of the Port Chicago Naval Magazine explosion and mutiny trial, and the impact on the appeals and commemoration process following the publication of The Port Chicago Mutiny: The Story of the Largest Mass Mutiny Trial in U.S. Naval History. Includes documentation of Allen’s Ph.D thesis work, publication of his Port Chicago article in The Black Scholar, manuscript drafts and editorial correspondence regarding publication of his book The Port Chicago Mutiny, and the post-publication impact including advocating and organizing for appeals, commemorations, memorials, events and derivative educational works. The collection is divided into three series: Research and Publication files; Appeals, Commemorations and Derivative Work files; and Photographs and Audiovisual materials.

Dr. Robert L. Allen is a writer, educator and civil rights activist who wrote and published a number of influential books on racial equality and gender social justice issues. His publications include Black Awakening in Capitalist America, The Port Chicago Mutiny and Reluctant Reformers: Racism and Social Reform Movements in the U.S. Allen has contributed numerous articles to anthologies and textbooks, held editorial posts at The Black Scholar, partnered with Alice Walker in 1984 to launch the independent Wild Trees Press and has been a university educator and administrator.

16.8 linear feet 34 boxes, 2 oversize boxes

The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted materials. The various state privacy acts govern the use of materials that document private individuals, groups, and corporations.

Collection is open for research; access requires at least 24 hours advance notice.