John Cumming California Gold Rush and western migration research files, 1827-1993, bulk 1849-1859

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Summary

Abstract:
Research material collected by historian John Cumming, chiefly on western immigration from Michigan.
Extent:
8 boxes (3.3 linear feet)
Language:
The material is in English.

Background

Scope and content:

This collection is comprised of the research conducted by historian John Cumming in his study of Michiganders who went west in the 19th century. The collection includes transcriptions of articles, diaries, and letters written by emigrants from Michigan to the American West, many of which were published in Michigan newspapers. The dates cited refer to the date of the originals from which the transcriptions were created. Often the location of the originals is noted on the transcriptions. Also included are several items written by John Cumming. There is one folder that contains original letters from the Gold Rush era: Box 4 (13): Gold Rush Notes: contains original manuscript items and letters.

The original order of the collection was maintained. It is arranged alphabetically by folder title.

Biographical / historical:

John Cumming was born in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts in 1915. He taught in the Detroit Public School system before becoming director of the Clarke Historical Library at Central Michigan University in 1961. Cumming served as director for 22 years, substantially increasing the size of the library during his tenure. He was a member of a number of professional organizations and researched Michiganders who went west in the 19th century, especially to the California Gold Rush. He was also an author of many books and journal articles. Cumming married Audrey Marie Severence in 1939 and together they had two sons, Robert and John. He died in 2010.

Acquisition information:
Gift of John Cumming, Jr. and Marilyn B. Cumming, March 2017.
Rules or conventions:
Finding Aid prepared using Describing Archives: A Content Standard

Access and use

Location of this collection:
1151 Oxford Road
San Marino, CA 91108, US
Contact:
(626) 405-2191
reference@huntington.org
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