John W. Hudson papers
Finding aid created by Sonoma State University Library staff using RecordEXPRESS
Sonoma State University Library
2021
Special Collections
1801 E. Cotati Avenue
Rohnert Park, California 94928
(707) 664-4152
specialcollections@sonoma.edu
http://library.sonoma.edu/specialcollections/
Title: John W. Hudson papers
Dates: 1848-1977
Collection Number: Consult repository.
Creator/Collector:
Hudson, John W., 1857-1936.
Extent: 11 boxes
Repository:
Sonoma State University Library
Rohnert Park, California 94928
Abstract: This collection is comprised primarily of reproductive copies of correspondence, memorandums, field notes, catalogues, and
annotations of Dr. John Wiz Napier Hudson, Ethnology Researcher. The original documents for much of this collection are found
in the Grace Hudson Museum in Ukiah, California. Related research performed by students in the Sonoma State University Department
of Anthropology complement this collection.
Language of Material: English
Collection is open for research by appointment.
The library can only claim physical ownership of the collection. Users are responsible for satisfying any claimants of literary
property.
John W. Hudson papers. Sonoma State University Library
Biography/Administrative History
John W. Hudson was born and raised in Nashville, Tennessee. After attending medical school, he practiced medicine for a few
years and developed an interest in archaeology. In 1889, Dr. Hudson moved to California where he studied native people of
Mendocino County, giving up his medical practice. After marrying Grace Carpenter Hudson, a painter, Hudson spent the remainder
of his life working as an ethnographer and collector, conducting extensive research among the Potter Valley Pomo Indians for
the Columbian Field Museum of Chicago from 1890 to the 1920’s. Hudson explored other tribes, such as the Yokeya, Yokaia,
Mono, Kawia, Mariposa, Hupa, Nicinan Maidu, Wintun, and Waco. Items collected by Hudson, including baskets and other artifacts,
reside in the Smithsonian Institution, the Field Museum in Chicago, and the Grace Hudson Museum in Ukiah, California.
Scope and Content of Collection
This collection contains copies of correspondence, memorandums, field notes, catalogues, general notes. The notes are primarily
ethnobotanical and linguistic on regional indigenous tribes regarding their basketry, fishing, tools, childbirth, ceremonies,
plants and animals, etc. The materials are organized in a total of 11 boxes.
Pomo Indians -- California -- Mendocino County -- Ethnobotany.
Ethnobotany -- California -- Mendocino County.
Pomo baskets.
Pomo food.
Pomo Indians -- History.
Potter Valley (Calif.) -- History.
Hudson, John Wilz Napier, 1857-1936.
Hudson, Grace Carpenter, 1865-1937.
Potter Valley (Calif.)
Mendocino County (Calif.)
Ethnographer.