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Guide to the Ruth Acty Papers
MS 38  
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Collection Overview
 
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Description
Educator, author, and actor Ruth Acty (1913-1998) was the first African American teacher hired by the Berkeley Unified School District in 1943. The Ruth Acty papers include curriculum material, teaching notes, writings, photographs, awards, legal and financial records, and correspondence that document her life and activities as a teacher and author.
Background
Educator, author, and actor Ruth Acty (1913-1998) was the first African American teacher hired by the Berkeley Unified School District in 1943. Born Oakland, California in 1913 to John and Gussie (née Stokes) Acty, she was raised in West Oakland and graduated from McClymonds High School before earning an A.B. in English from San Francisco State College in 1937. After taking classes in early childhood development and speech at the University of California, Berkeley, she attended Northwestern University earning a M.A. in Theater in 1941.
Extent
9.5 linear feet (16 boxes + 1 oversized box)
Restrictions
Permission to publish from the Ruth Acty Papers must be obtained from the African American Museum & Library at Oakland.
Availability
No access restrictions. Collection is open to the public.