Manuscripts, correspondence, organizational records, research materials, photograph albums, audiovisual items, clothing, trophies and other materials from lesbian activist, writer and psychotherapist, Betty Berzon (1928-2006). Included in this collection are manuscripts and resource materials for Berzon's published and unpublished books; records from gay and lesbian organizations in which she was involved; paper and audiovisual material for her therapy practice, workshops, and training programs; correspondence files; subject files; extensive photo albums and memorabilia documenting Berzon's personal life; and personal papers, including those related to Berzon's relationship with long-time partner, Teresa DeCrescenzo, and Berzon's years-long battle with cancer.

Betty Louise Berzon was born to a middle-class Jewish family on January 18, 1928, in St. Louis, Missouri. The family moved to Tuscon, Arizona when Berzon was young, and upon graduating high school she attended Stanford University, majoring in journalism and creative writing. In 1949, Berzon got a job in a bookstore, which turned into a short-lived career as a bookseller. She owned and operated Berzon Books in 1951 in Los Angeles, but it went out of business after one year.

66.9 linear feet. 39 records boxes + 15 photo binder boxes + 3 archive cartons + 7 flat archive boxes + 1 suitcase + 1 oversize trophy + 1 mapcase drawer.

Researchers wishing to publish material must obtain permission in writing from ONE National Gay & Lesbian Archives as the physical owner of the material. Note that permission to publish does not constitute copyright clearance. ONE National Gay & Lesbian Archives can grant copyright clearance only for those materials for which we hold copyright. It is the responsibility of the researcher to obtain copyright clearance for all other materials from the copyright holder(s).

The collection is open to researchers. There are no access restrictions.