This collection includes material pertaining to Charles Irving Clay’s professional and personal life. These letters sent to Clay, and occasionally sent from Clay, provide information on how ornithological research and business was conducted in the early 20th century. Included in the professional correspondence is information related to the purchase of “skins”, nests, and other specimens for the study of birds and particularly oology. The correspondence with family and friends offers insight into how communication was conducted in a more casual way about everyday life, familiar connections and some personal gossip. The series of photographs captures people in a wide variety of scenarios, images of cars, buildings from travels around the country, as well as several different bird and nest specimens.

Charles Irving Clay worked in the field of ornithology, more specifically oology (the study of bird eggs, nests and breeding behaviors). He lived in Humboldt County but often worked for organizations that sent him elsewhere in the country to collect specimens.

.5 linear feet

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Open for research by appointment.