Processing Information note
Conditions Governing Access note
Conditions Governing Use note
Preferred Citation note
Immediate Source of Acquisition note
Accruals note
Custodial History note
Biographical/Historical note
Scope and Contents note
Arrangement note
Chronology
Title: Basil J. Vlavianos papers
Identifier/Call Number: MSS 2002/09
Contributing Institution:
California State University, Sacramento Special Collections & University Archives
Language of Material:
English
Physical Description:
331.25 Linear feet
(265 record cartons)
Date (inclusive): 1890-1990
Abstract: The collection contains correspondence, photographs, phonographs, cablegrams, telegrams, dissertations, research papers, holiday
cards, paintings, clippings/articles, bound volumes, ephemera, financial records, framed items, legal documents, manuscripts,
maps/charts, minutes, newspapers, publications, pamphlets, books, journals, research materials, speeches, subject files, examinations,
academic essays, scholarly monographs, address books, receipts, lectures, research papers, academic conference programs, memoranda,
statements, resolutions, invitations, educational materials, conference programs, editorials, congressional reports, writings,
business records, contracts, brochures, radio transcripts, exhibit plans, and blueprints pertaining to the educational and
professional life of Basil John Vlavianos.
Language of Materials note: Collection materials for Basil John Vlavianos are in English, Greek, French, German, Czech, and Polish.
creator:
Vlavianos, Basil J.
Processing Information note
Processed by Lynn Drennan, Staff Archivist, and Aaron T. Richardson, previous intern at CSU, Sacramento’s Special Collections
and University Archives. Supervised by Sheila O’Neill, Department Head of CSU, Sacramento’s Special Collections and University
Archives. Completed April 2015.
Conditions Governing Access note
Collection is open for research. Some restrictions may apply.
Conditions Governing Use note
Copyright is protected by the copyright law, Chapter 17 of the U.S. Code. Requests for permission to publish, quote, or reproduce
from collections must be submitted in writing to the Head of the Department of Special Collections and University Archives.
Permission for publication is given on the behalf of the Department of Special Collections and University Archives, Library,
California State University, Sacramento as the owner of the physical item and is not intended to include permission of the
copyright holder, which must also be obtained by the researcher.
Preferred Citation note
[Identification of item including date], [Folder Title], MSS 2002/09, Basil J. Vlavianos papers, Department of Special Collections
and University Archives, University Library, California State University, Sacramento.
Immediate Source of Acquisition note
The Basil J. Vlavianos papers were included in the library of the former Speros Basil Vryonis Center for the Study of Hellenism
donated as the Tsakopoulos Hellenic Collection to the University Library at California State University, Sacramento in 2002.
Additional material was donated by Zita Vlavianos Hosmer in 2005.
Accruals note
No additions are expected.
Custodial History note
Basil J. Vlavianos assembled these papers over many years. They were later given to the Speros Basil Vryonis Center for the
Study of Hellenism, which donated them to California State University, Sacramento in 2002.
Biographical/Historical note
Basil John Vlavianos (1903 – 1994) was an international lawyer, professor of diplomatic history, businessman, human rights
activist, journalist, and publisher.
1903 – 1938 Born January 16, 1903 in Athens Greece, Basil John Vlavianos was the oldest son of Helen (Fandrides) and John
G. Vlavianos, VI. His father was a prominent Athenian lawyer and President of Athens City Council. Basil began his studies
in philosophy, political science, economics and law at the University of Athens in 1918. Graduating in 1920, he received the
Certificate of Studies in Law before departing for advanced legal studies in Europe. In Germany he studied jurisprudence at
Universities of Leipzig and Munich. From the latter he was awarded the Juris Doctor in 1924. In France he continued his studies
at the University of Paris where he received a Certificate of Studies in Law and Forensic Medicine and Psychology (1925).
He also studied at the prestigious École des Sciences et Politiques, a private institute which was devoted to training of
the political class in international relations, international law, and comparative government. As the fruit of his studies
Vlavianos produced three significant works in the field of comparative penology: his doctoral dissertation Zur Lehre von der
Blutrache (On the Theory of Vendetta), 1924; Η μεταρρύθμιση του ποινικού νόμου (The Reform of Penal Law), 1925; and Η συστηματική
ταξινόμηση των ποινικών επιστημών (The Systematic Classification of Penal Sciences), 1927.
Passing bar examinations in Greece and France, Vlavianos formally entered the international legal profession in 1926. During
the latter part of the 1920s he served Greece as official representative at several international law congresses throughout
Europe including: International Prison Congress (London, 1925); International Congress of Penal Law (Brussels, 1927); Congress
of the International Society for Penal Law (Bucharest, 1928); International Prison Congress (Prague, 1930); and International
Prison Congress (Berlin, 1935). From 1927 to 1937 he operated his own law firm in Athens while serving as a legal advisor
in London. During this period Vlavianos defended cases in Greece, France, Belgium, England, Germany and Egypt, specializing
in patents, and maritime law. He also served as Consul of the Republic of Panama in Piraeus, Greece from 1936-1939.
In 1932 Vlavianos married Ekaterina George Nicolaou, member of a well-known Athenian shipping family, and in 1936 they had
one daughter, Zita.
In 1935, amid considerable social and political strife, a Royalist coup brought King George II back to power in Greece. The
King appointed General Ioannis Metaxas to the office of Prime Minster in 1936 and, with the King’s full approval, Metaxas
dissolved Greece’s parliamentary government. Political parties were suppressed, as were civil liberties and freedom of the
press. Modeling his regime after other authoritarian governments in Europe, the Metaxas dictatorship (also known as the 4th
of August Regime) banned political parties, arrested communists, criminalized strikes, and sponsored media-censorship. By
1937 Vlavianos had relocated to Paris.
1939 – 1993 Vlavianos arrived in New York on September 3, 1939 in order to attend the World’s Fair. He stayed for the next
fifty-four years. In 1940 he acquired the Ethnikos Keryx (National Herald). Founded by Petros Tatanis in 1915, the newspaper
was one of two major Greek-language dailies in the United States (the other being the Atlantis, a royalist paper supporting
the Metaxas dictatorship). Vlavianos purchased the paper amid its significant economic difficulties caused by pro-Metaxas
Greek consuls in the United States. Through the paper Vlavianos played a prominent role in keeping the Greek community and
American public informed about the situation in Greece before, during, and just after WWII. Given the wide-spread censorship
by the regime in Greece, the National Herald functioned as an important source of communication for the liberal, republican
ideas of the Venizelos party. As war broke out, the paper, under the editorship of Vlavianos, continued to be a primary means
of information for the Greek-American community and the broader American public. The newspaper made a significant contribution
to the allied war-effort. Through his editorship Vlavianos supported and documented Greek resistance to authoritarianism and
fascism.
Especially important was the key role played by Vlavianos and the Herald in the relief of Greek citizens during the war. Beginning
in 1940, Greece was occupied first by Italian and then German forces. Because of the occupation and because of a British shipping
blockade designed to prevent Axis supplies entering the country, the Greek people suffered widespread starvation. Thousands
died in Athens alone. In response to a call by Greek Orthodox Archbishop Athenagoras, and under the leadership of Twentieth-Century
Fox Chairman, Spyros Skouras, the Greek War Relief Association came into being. The GWRA was a major transnational humanitarian
campaign involving the international Red Cross, the Greek diaspora communities, and other sympathetic American participants.
As editor of the National Herald, Vlavianos called for an end to the British blockade and lobbied hard for a change in British
policy. He exerted significant influence through public appearances and editorials and made an important contribution to the
GWRA efforts.
After the war Vlavianos was active in law, international politics, business, culture, and education. In 1945, representatives
of fifty countries met in San Francisco at the United Nations Conference on International Organization to draw up the United
Nations Charter. Vlavianos served as legal consultant to Foreign Minister George Sofianopoulos and the Greek Delegation. Resigning
the editorship of the National Herald in 1947, Vlavianos became adjunct Professor of Political Affairs and Regional Studies
at New York University where he taught until 1961. While at NYU he helped found the Institute for Intercontinental Studies,
which was an early example of an international study-abroad program. His interest in human rights and international law also
led him to become treasurer for the International League for the Rights of Man, an organization that sought to further the
values enshrined in international human rights treaties and conventions.
Vlavianos also continued to be engaged as a publisher. He founded Arts Inc. a publishing house specializing in European scholarly
and artistic works. In the late 1940s the firm was expanded to create, first, the Golden Griffin Bookstore, and then the Griffin
Gallery which dealt primarily with contemporary American and European artists. The business was located in midtown Manhattan
during a period of increasing post-war internationalism. The Golden Griffin was known as the “Continental Bookstore” because
of its stock of European titles. Arts Inc. published the critically-acclaimed “American Cities” series which featured the
work of Swiss water-colorist Fritz Busse and texts by renowned contemporary writers. In addition to these business ventures,
Vlavianos served on the editorial board of Free World magazine and the Greek-language newspaper, Proini. During this same
period, Vlavianos held interests in multiple businesses including transportation and construction companies which were involved
in Greek post-war reconstruction. He served on the board of the several businesses and held real estate interests.
Throughout the latter half of the twentieth century Vlavianos followed international relations closely. Throughout his long
life he continued to be active in various social, political, and cultural causes. He belonged to Hellenic fraternal organizations
like the American Hellenic Progressive Association (AHEPA) and participated in a wide range of academic associations. Naturalized
as an American citizen in 1958, Vlavianos died in Alexandria, VA on June 27, 1994.
Scope and Contents note
The collection contains correspondence, photographs, phonographs, cablegrams, telegrams, dissertations, research papers, holiday
cards, paintings, clippings/articles, bound volumes, ephemera, financial records, framed items, legal documents, manuscripts,
maps/charts, minutes, newspapers, publications, pamphlets, books, journals, research materials, speeches, subject files, examinations,
academic essays, scholarly monographs, address books, receipts, lectures, research papers, academic conference programs, memoranda,
statements, resolutions, invitations, educational materials, conference programs, editorials, congressional reports, writings,
business records, contracts, brochures, radio transcripts, exhibit plans, and blueprints pertaining to the educational and
professional life of Basil John Vlavianos. Originally 265 record cartons (331.25 linear feet), 58.75 linear feet oversized,
worth of material, the collection now consists of ?? cartons (linear feet), ?? linear feet oversized, as the collection has
been updated/weeded, and reorganized to best reflect the material included in this collection.
There are 10 main series pertaining to the Basil J. Vlavianos papers. Included are the following: biographical, academic,
correspondence, businesses, newspaper publishing, legal, associations, photographs, artifacts, and oversized. SERIES DESCRIPTION
SERIES 1: Biographical, 1881-1992 (Box 1-Box 5, 108 file folders)
The Biographical series encompasses the biographical related material for Basil Vlavianos. Materials include documents, record
books, certificates, letterhead, programs, calendars, passports, visas and permits, letters, notes, speeches, and maps from
various countries around the world. This series is arranged alphabetically. It is divided into the following sub-series, with
folder contents listed on the subsequent pages:
Sub Series 1: Personal Records, 1881-1991
Sub Series 2: Personal notes and writings, 1912-1986
Sub Series 3: Writings about BJV, 1940-1982
Sub Series 4: Travel Maps, 1931-1992
SERIES 2: Academic, 1909-1994 (Box 6-Box 16, 184 file folders) The Academic series involves the materials Vlavianos had regarding his
academic and teaching career. It includes information on NYU (New York University) and University of Wyoming and the I.I.S
(Institute for Intercontinental Studies). It is divided into the following distinctions, with folder contents listed on the
subsequent pages:
Sub Series 1: NYU, 1909-1994
Sub-Sub Series 1: General Faculty, 1947-1990s
Sub-Sub Series 2: Student Files, 1947-1978
Sub-Sub Series 3: Lectures/Notes, 1924-1960
Sub-Sub Series 4: Other Colleges/Colleagues, 1943-1984
Sub-Sub Series 5: Subject Files, 1909-1994
Sub Series 2: I.I.S. (Institute for Intercontinental Studies), 1931-1963
Sub-Sub Series 1: Administration Files, 1949-1958
Sub-Sub Series 2: General Files, 1945-1963
Sub-Sub Series 3: Correspondence, 1948-1957
Sub-Sub-Sub Series 1: Dr. Eric Mann, 1949-1957
Sub-Sub-Sub Series 2: General Correspondence, 1948-1954
Sub-Sub Series 4: Tour Planning Files, 1931-1954
SERIES 3: Correspondence, 1920-1994 (Box 17-Box 42, 394 file folders & loose greeting cards in boxes 35-42) The Correspondence series
is organized into five subseries. The first of these is the Alphabetical subseries, which is organized by specific individuals
that Vlavianos had contact with. The second is the Chronological subseries, which contains folders of correspondence arranged
by decade as well as individual years. The third, Subject, contains correspondence put into folders by subject matter, such
as stamp collecting or Boston. The fourth subseries, Miscellaneous/Mixed Correspondence, consists of several folders of correspondence
that have no discernable order; they jump around in subject matter, time period, and among individuals. The last subseries
contains a number of boxes that house various types of greeting cards. Incoming and outgoing correspondence can be found in
every subseries. Vlavianos corresponded with a variety of businessmen, academics, personal friends, fellow Greek-Americans,
family, politicians, writers, journalists, artists, and many other notable figures in Greek and American life. Examples of
the more prominent individuals include President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Eleanor Roosevelt, Vice President Henry Wallace,
Greek Prime Minister Andreas Papandreou, Chairman of Twentieth-Century Fox Spyros Skouras, and several United States Congressmen
and Senators. Types of correspondence include letters, postcards, greeting cards, telegrams, radiograms, and invitations.
There is a small quantity of photographs and news clippings among the series as well. About half of the series is in English
with the other half being Greek. There is a very small amount of correspondence in French and German. The Sub Series are listed
here and the folder contents are listed on the subsequent pages:
Sub Series 1: Alphabetical, 1922-1991 (bulk 1940s-1950s)
The majority of the correspondence is categorized alphabetically by names of individuals. Some folders contain correspondence
from several people whose last names start with the same letter. Some individuals, such as Eric Mann, are represented by several
folders. This subseries includes both incoming and outgoing correspondence and includes individuals from a wide variety of
fields and locations. Many are business associates and those involved in Greek-American organizations. There are a few personal
contacts as well. Most of the material is dated from the 1940s and 1950s. There are some photographs, greeting cards, invitations,
postcards, and telegrams contained within this subseries. The folder for Rachel Dalven, a playwright and poet, includes an
audio cassette tape of one of her plays. The primary languages are English and Greek, with a very small amount of the material
in French.
Sub Series 2: Chronological, 1924-1994 (bulk 1940s-1970s)
A portion of the correspondence is organized chronologically. The letters are arranged by decade and by individual year. Folders
by decade begin in the 1920s and end in the 1990s, at the end of Vlavianos’ life. Folders by year begin in 1941 and end in
1986. There is not a folder for every year; much of the 1940s is represented but the years are sporadic after that. Folders
for 1947 through 1949 contain documents organized by month. Correspondence in this subseries is with a variety of individuals
and organizations and covers many subject areas. Many cables, invitations, postcards, and greeting cards are contained within
the folders. The primary languages are English and Greek, with very small amounts of German and French.
Sub Series 3: Subject, 1932-1994 (bulk 1940s-1960s)
A small portion of the correspondence is organized by subject. These subjects are highly varied; examples are organizations
to which Vlavianos belonged, cities or countries, contacts related to his business life, personal hobbies, and invitations.
The correspondence within these subjects is from a variety of individuals and includes incoming as well as outgoing letters.
The subject with the most content is the National Herald, though much attention is also given to the many associations and
organizations that Vlavianos was involved with. The most notable piece of correspondence is a letter to Vlavianos from Presides
Franklin D. Roosevelt discussing the relationship between the United States and Greece. This series contains some news clippings,
greeting cards, telegrams and radiograms, and several invitations which are mostly related to events held by organizations.
The primary languages are English and Greek.
Sub Series 4: Miscellaneous/Mixed, 1920-1991 (bulk 1940s-1980s)
The Miscellaneous Correspondence subseries contains a wide range of documents from throughout Vlavianos’ life. The earliest
document dates to 1930, but most of the folders contain correspondence dated from the 1940s through the 1980s. There seems
to be no discernible order to the documents; the correspondence within one folder can vary widely in date and subject. Although
there may be small groups of about four or five documents from the same time period, the entire folder does not appear to
have a unifying theme. Postcards, telegrams, invitations, and greeting cards can be found within this subseries. Many of the
folders contain newspaper clippings or photocopies of newspaper and magazine articles. The primary language is Greek, with
a significant but not equal amount of English as well.
Sub Series 5: Greeting Cards, 1940s-1990s (bulk 1950s-1980s)
There are several boxes of holiday and greeting cards that Vlavianos received. These cards are addressed from various friends
and family members. Some of them are more business-like in nature and some contain very personal notes. The cards are not
organized into folders; they are randomly placed in boxes and have no particular order to them. The cards within a single
box vary widely in date. Christmas cards make up the vast majority of the subseries. There are also some birthday and get
well cards. There are some postcards included as well. About half of the cards are in English and half in Greek.
Authorized Name Headings: Academy of Political Science in the City of New York; Alfange, Dean; American Academy of Political
and Social Science; American College of Greece; American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association; American Hellenic Institute
Public Affairs Committee; Antoniades, John; Arpajolu, Anna; Asteriou, Asterios; Baker, Russell; Beame, Abraham; Berger, Meyer;
Bush, George; Busse, Fritz; Calogeropoulos-Stratis, S.; Cheronis, Nicholas Dimitrius; Christopher, George; Chryssikos, George
John; Couvaras, Costa G.; Cyprus; Dalven, Rae; Demas, Edie.; Demetracopoulos, Elias P.; Denis, Paul; Dept. of State; Dufour,
Charles; Economides, Chris; Eisner, Pavel; Eleftheria (Athens, Greece); Embassy of Greece, Press & Information Office; Emmanuel,
Philip D.; Firt, Julius; Gardner, Ava; Georgopoulos, Dimitri; Gilliam, Harold; Greece; Greek National Tourist Organization;
Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of North and South America; Greek War Relief Association; Grosz, George; Haris, Petros; Hart, Gary;
Iakovos, Archbishop of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of North and South America; Inter-American Association for Democracy
and Freedom; International Association of Penal Law; International League for the Rights of Man; International Monetary Fund;
Koch, Ed; Krikos Publications; La Guardia, Fiorello H. (Fiorello Henry); Leber, George J.; Littell, Norman Mather; Malafouris,
Charalampos; Manas, John Helen; Mann, Eric; Manos, Charles S.; Marketos, Bampēs; Mavros, George J.; McGhee, George Crews;
Mediterranean Region; Meritt, Benjamin Dean; Mesthene, Emmanuel G.; Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures; Miller, Henry; Mitropoulos,
Dimitri; Moskos, Charles C.; Mourelos, Giōrgos I.; Mylonas, George E.; National Bank of Yugoslavia; National Herald, Inc.;
New York Times Company; New York University; Pan-Macedonian Association; Papagos, Alexandros; Papandreou, Andreas George;
Papavassiliou, George C.; Pappas, Tom; Parnassos, Greek Cultural Society of New York; Pepper, Claude; Petrakis, Harry Mark;
Petropoulos, J. C. B.; Petrow, Christ John; Pinchot, Cornelia Bryce; Plastēras, Nikolaos; Raymond, Antonin; Reagan, Ronald;
Reese, Howard C.; Rockefeller, Nelson A. (Nelson Aldrich); Roosevelt, Eleanor; Roosevelt, Franklin D.; Rossides, Zenon G.;
Rouček, Joseph Slabey; Sakellariou, Alexandros E.; Saloutos, Theodore; Sauer, Elsbeth; Schwab, Herbert; Securitas Printers
& Publishers (Pty) Ltd.; Siapkaras, Andreas; Siotis, J. (Jean); Skouras, Spyros; Smith, Margaret Chase; Stathopoulos, Michael;
Stavrou, Theofanis George; Stoyan, Pribichevich; Sutnar, Ladislav; Trypanis, C. A. (Constantine Athanasius); Tsouderos, Giannēs
Emmanouēl; Turkey; United Hellenic American Congress; United Nations; United States House of Representatives; United States
Senate; Vaianos, Marios; Vassos, John; Venizelos, Sophocles; Venizelou, Helena; Wallace, Henry A.; Warren, Earl; Weeks, Edward;
White, Leigh; White House; Wood, George C.; Xydēs, Stephanos G.; Zaffiras, George John; Ziōgas, Ēlias K.
Authorized Subject Headings: Adhesive Labels; Affidavits; Diplomacy; Greek-American Newspapers; Greek American Art; Greek
American Literature; Greek American Theater; Greeting Cards; Invitation Cards; Legal Documents; Napkins; Newspaper Clippings;
Political Participation; Postcards; Printing; Publishers and Publishing; Shipping; Stamp Collecting; Travel
No Authorized Name Headings: American Hellenic Corporation; American Society for Neo-Hellenic Studies; Anderson, Maxwell;
Andreades, Aristocles; Andriopoulos, Nicholas A.; Andronicos, George; Arts, Inc.; Athanasiades, Bodaski; Berberry, Joseph;
Besso, Joseph; Bienstock, Billie; Bougas, Peter A.; Boytos, S. S.; Burrows, Gordon W.; Caravanos, Mary Ann; Cavacos, A. T.;
Christofilacou, Mata; Constantine A. Contis Agency; Costandinidi; Curtis, Admiral Lebbeus; Demeroukis, George; Economy, George
P.; Elafopoulos, A.; Ellamdra; Evangelidi, Athena; Ferris, Louis; Filaretos; Fried, Frances; Gellerman, Henry E.; Gondicas,
George; Goulandris, Anghelos; Granitsos, Spyridon; Hatsos, Michael N.; Helis, William; Hellenic Journal; Institute of Intercontinental
Studies; Issaias, G.; Kritas, Theodore; La Roque, Gene; Lentakis, John; Magno, Alberto; Maisch, Trudy; Mamalakis, Spyros;
Marthakis, P. S.; McMahon, Phil; Michalopoulos, Andres; Moatsos, John; Moraitis, A.; Mountanos; Mousmoules, Nick; Mylonas,
James C.; Name Day wishes; National Press Service; New School Associates; Nittis, Savas; Pantaleon, Basil Marika; Pantazis,
Eva; Pantelis, A. A.; Papachristidis, Phrixos B.; Peters, Christy George; Pezas, Dimitrios; Pistolakis, Stelios; Polygenis,
Dr. Jean C.; Rallis, Marcos N.; Reck, Henry D.; Rosa, Raymond; Salisbury, Morris; Ships Management Corporation; Sikelianos,
Eva; Sioris, Alexander D.; Skourlis, Theo. and Steve; Sofianopoulos, George; Sokitch, Miloye M.; Stamatellos, Stamatios E.;
Stampolis, John H.; Tatanis, Petros B.; Tselos, Dimitri; Vassardakis, Lucille; Vlachos, T. V.; Vlanos, James; Vournas, George
C.; Vrionides, Mary (Marie); World Friendship Council; Zoullas, Sophocles
SERIES 4: Businesses, 1886-1999 (Box 43-Box 76, 760 file folders) The Business series documents Vlavianos’ activities and involvement
in commerce. He served as legal and economic consultant to several companies. He also was founder and controlling shareholder
in industrial and shipping enterprises in Greece, England, France and America. Companies particularly well-represented in
the papers are: Société Courtage et Transports – shipping (France); Arts Inc. – publishing (New York); Allcom Company – general
commerce (New York); and the Western European-American Tobacco Co. (New York). He was also founder and director of Ships Management
Corp. and Zika Realty (New York). The Businesses series contains records of each of these companies, some bank records, as
well as subject files and correspondence. Languages are Greek, French and English. The series is arranged alphabetically by
company name. The 10 Sub Series are listed here and the folder contents are listed on the subsequent pages:
Sub Series 1: Allcom, 1938-1980
Allcom, along with Alltrans and Shipping Co. Limited were formed in 1938, in London, England. The shareholders at the time
of incorporation were William Roberts and Ian Rough. B.J.V.’s official affiliation with both companies is unknown at this
time. Although Rough and Roberts were the official heads of both companies, it is apparent through their correspondence with
B.J.V. that he is the one influential and interested party. Neither company conducted any business except that which was necessary
to remain soluble. Both are allowed to dissolve circa 1939.
In 1946 Allcom was reborn as a corporation in New York. The purpose of the company as noted in the by-laws, was as an export/import
company and purchasing agent. B.J.V. was the majority stockholder. At time of incorporation in 1946 the president was Julius
Firt, the Vice President was John Vorres, the Secretary was Lucille Vassardaki, and the Treasurer was Cecil Harris (see bound
copy: minutes and by-laws – BOX #43). In 1959 George C. Wood became Secretary. Found no definite date as to the end of Allcom
as a registered company, however, evidence of its solubility (checks, references) is found deep into the 70’s. The bulk of
the records are from 1948 – 1956.
This subseries is comprised of five sub-sub series which contain the various documents associated with the daily business
of Allcom. The sub-sub series include: Administration; Company Relations; Individual Relations; Country Relations, and Miscellaneous
Documents. In each sub-sub series the folders are arranged alphabetically, except for the miscellaneous documents sub-sub
series which are filed chronologically from the earliest to the latest date. Contained in these files are correspondence (including
postcards, telegrams, and radiograms) legal documents (agreements, leases, and court documents), reports, financial statements,
business plans, newspaper and journal clippings, photographs, and ephemera. Languages are Primarily English, Greek and French.
The 5 Sub-sub Series are listed here and the folder contents are listed on the subsequent pages:
Sub-Sub Series 1: Administration, 1942-1980
Sub-Sub Series 2: Company Relations, 1945-1964
Sub-Sub Series 3: Individual Relations, 1945-1971
Sub-Sub Series 4: Country Relations, 1938-1956
Sub-Sub Series 5: Miscellaneous documents, 1947-1957
Names/Subjects: Kyriakides (ASC); Alexandrakis, E.A.; Castellides, Paul; Zaffiras, George; (SEE ALSO Alltrans subseries). Shipping; Trade;
Exporting; Importing; Various Countries; Various Materials.
Sub Series 2: Alltrans, 1946-1966
Alltrans, an airline company, was incorporated in 1946, in New York and then again in 1949 in New Jersey. The nature of their
business can be found in the Alltrans Minutes and By-Laws in box 47. In1952 Alltrans became financially insoluble due to a
botched lease agreement with the United States Government (USAF, air material command) – referred to in various documents
as the Alltrans Case. The Government demanded, without cause, the return of their planes. The Case involves George Zaffiras
(Greek Fiction Writer, IOWA), Gillete (senator d-Iowa), Ella G. Roller (government rep. for Alltrans), and others.
This subseries consists of 4 sub-sub series: administration, correspondence, business realtions, and miscellaneous. The material
consist of correspondence, name files, company files, flight schedules, legal documents (contracts, agreements, court documents)
government documents, employee records, accounting files, photographs, and ephemera. Also contains a set of radio crystals.
Language is primarily English with some Greek. The bulk of records are from 1949-1952. In each sub-sub series the folders
are arranged alphabetically, except for the miscellaneous sub-sub series which are filed chronologically from the earliest
to the latest date.
Sub-sub Series 1: Administration, 1947-1961
Sub-sub Series 2: Correspondence, 1947-1961
Sub-sub Series 3: Business Relations, 1946-1955
Sub-sub Series 4: Miscellaneous, 1948-1966
Names/Subjects: Vassar, Lucille (Treasurer); Johnson, Robert (V.P. Until July 1951); Vendouzis, John (President); White, Darrel (V.P.); B.J.V.
(director) White, Jeptha D. (secretary); White, George (Director of Rome offices); Ricksen, Robert, Zaffiras, George; Gillete,
Francis; Roller, Ella G; Airline Industry, Panama, Nicaragua, Greece, Miami, USAF, Air Material Command.
Sub Series 3: AWETC (American Western European Tobacco Company), 1940-1961
A.W.E.T.C was formed in Delaware in 1948. In 1949 it moved to New York. The A.W.E.T.C. was created for the sole purpose of
supplying the American Occupation Zone of Germany with tobacco of Greek, Turkish and American Origin. In order to accomplish
this, an agreement needed to be made between the J.E.I.A (Joint Export Import Agency) and the A.W.E.T.C. When this failed
to materialize, the company was unable to remain solvent. In 1953 it was dissolved, and in1955 it was officially withdrawn
as a corporation. The bulk of the records are from 1948 to 1950.
This subseries consists of ledger books and official corporate records. Material includes name files, company files, accounts,
miscellaneous documents, and a file of correspondence concerning Germany and the J.E.I.A. This subseries is filed alphabetically,
except for the miscellaneous which is the last folder. As an affiliate of Allcom there exists some overlap between the subseries.
Languages are English, Greek and French.
Names/Subjects: Normal Littel (president); George Zaphiriou (V.P.); Zirinis, Panos (February 1949 takes over Zaphirious V.P. position); .B.J.V.
(V.P./Treasurer); Lucille Vasardaki (secretary). Tobacco; Tobacco Industry; J.E.I.A; West Germany; Clay, Lucious Clay. American
Occupation Zone; Berlin.
Sub Series 4: Arts Inc., 1916-1995
This sub series is the material that falls under the Arts Inc. business category. The sub-sub series include: Administration,
Correspondence, Griffin Gallery, Book production: American cities, book production: contemporary artists, book production:
other projects, and non-Griffin Gallery exhibits/invites/catalogs. Materials include business documents, correspondence, art
pamphlets, art woodcuts, book drafts, drawings, and invitations and art catalogs. The sub-sub series are arranged alphabetically.
Sub-sub Series 1: Administration, 1916-1988
Sub-sub Series 2: Correspondence, 1940-1991
Sub-sub Series 3: Griffin Gallery, 1946-1995
This sub-sub series includes 3 sub-sub-sub series relating to the Griffin Gallery. The groups are administration, correspondence,
and exhibitions. They are arranged alphabetically.
Sub-sub-sub Series 1: Administration, 1955-1995
Sub-sub-sub Series 2: Correspondence, 1965-1967
Sub-sub-sub Series 3: Exhibitions, 1946-1967
Sub-sub Series 4: Book Production: American Cities, 1960-1981
This sub-sub series includes 5 sub-sub-sub series relating to the American cities project that was illustrated by Fritz Busse.
The American cities included are Boston, New Orleans, New York, San Francisco, and Washington (D.C.). Materials include book
drafts and other materials related to the making of these books.
Sub-sub-sub Series 1: Boston, 1962-1977
Sub-sub-sub Series 2: New Orleans, 1948-1971
Sub-sub-sub Series 3: New York, 1955-1959
Sub-sub-sub Series 4: San Francisco, 1958-1963
Sub-sub-sub Series 5: Washington, 1954-1985
Sub-sub Series 5: Book Production: Contemporary Artists, 1947-1985
This sub-sub series included materials related to the making of other books and artwork by contemporary artists. Inlcuded
are book drafts, wood cuts, and other art materials. Arrangement is alphabetical.
Sub-sub Series 6: Book Production: Other Projects, 1940-1995
Sub-sub Series 7: Non-Griffin Gallery Exhibits/Invites/Catalogs, 1929- 1985
Sub Series 5: Banking, 1886-1992
This subseries consists of 4 sub-sub series: Atlantic Bank, Hellenic Canadian Trust, Other banks and banking, and reconstruction.
Languages are English, Greek and French.
Sub-sub Series 1: Atlantic Bank, 1960-1992
Began a Bank of Athens Trust Company in 1926 in New York, but changed to Atlantic Bank in 1952. In 1953 Atlantic Bank acquired
Hellenic Bank Trust Company which was a subsidiary of the National Bank of Greece. Both Hellenic Bank Trust Company and the
National Bank of Greece appear throughout the B.J.V. papers. Documents of this record group show B.J.V. accepting election
to Board of Directors in 1960. He is assumed to have been involved with the bank until the time of his death in 1994. This
record group contains correspondence, legal documents, financial statements, reports, memos, plans, policies, pamphlets, clippings,
ephemera, and photographs. Folders are alphabetically arranged by subject, and filed chronologically. Language is primarily
English.
Names/Subjects: Cachules, S.N. (president until 1983); Kostkopoulos (president, 1983 on); Atlantic Bank; Banking.
Sub-sub Series 2: Hellenic Canadian Trust, 1886-1985
Based in Canada and formed in 1970, Hellenic Canadian Trust was started to help Greek immigrants in Canada with their financial
needs. B.J.V.’s official affiliation with the bank is unknown. This record group consists of financial reports, minutes, investment
guides for both Canada and Greece, correspondence, clippings from both Greek and Canadian news sources, and other related
ephemera, both bound and in folders. There is also information, including photographs, regarding a development project on
the Polemarcha estate. The bound documents are arranged chronologically from earliest to latest and the folders are arranged
alphabetically and filed by date from earliest to latest
Names/Subjects: Zissis, Constantinos P. (General Manager); Anastas, E (General Manager – Real Estate Deparment); Banking; Greece; Canada;
Real Estate.
Sub-sub Series 3: Other banks/banking, 1933-1975
Sub-sub Series 4: Reconstruction, 1929-1959
This sub-sub series includes information about the reconstruction effort of Greece. Materials include documents, correspondence,
maps, pictures, and other materials showing this effort. Items are arranged alphabetically.
Sub Series 6: Mediterranean Mines, 1947-1955
Mediterranean Mines, Inc. was a Delaware corporation with offices in New York and Athens. Basil J. Vlavianos resigned from
the board of directors in 1949; however he seems to have been actively engaged with company until 1955 where the series ends.
This subseries consists of mainly correspondence. Some minutes, reports and other materials exist. Majority of materials concern
mining in Greece as part of the Marshall Plan with references to the ECA. A small number of documents reference mining/exploration
in Mexico and the United States. There are seven folders arranged chronologically. As affiliate of Allcom there exists some
overlap between the subseries. Languages are English and Greek.
Names/Subjects: Hubler, W.G. – President; Zeckhausen, Paul – Secretary-Treasurer; Siotis, George – General Manager; Wright, Charles W. –
Foreign Minerals Specialist U.S. Bureau of Mines. Milling; Mining; Minerals; Marshall Plan; ECA (Economic Cooperation Administration);
Greece; Mexico.
Sub Series 7: Real Estate, 1937-1973
This subseries consists of two sub-subseries: V.C. Realty and Zika Realty. B.J.V. was president of both companies. This subseries
also contains a folder containing records created by Zika Film. Also contains folders concerning prefabricated homes, photographs,
maps, plans, and real estate affiliated pamphlets. Overlap with Allcom, and Atlantic bank. Folders are arranged alphabetically
within each group. Language is primarily in English.
Sub-sub Series 1: V.C. Realty, 1956-1973
Formed in New Jersey, 1936. This sub-subseries consists mainly of records (court documents, agreements, contracts, and correspondence)
documenting a court case between V.C. Realty and Gerassimo Crassas, the president of Jersey Development Corporation (J.D.C.),
regarding the Appleman Tract in New Jersey.
Names/Subjects: Wood, George (Vice President); Wieser, Olga; (Secretary). Grassos (original V.P); Harris, Cecil (original
Secretary). Crassas, Gerassimo; Real Estate, New Jersey, Jersey Development Corporation.
Sub-sub Series 2: Zika Realty, 1937-1973
A New York Corporation with offices in New York and Connecticut, created in 1956 and dissolved in 1973. The bulk of this record
group consists of documents detailing Zika Realty’s affiliation and court battle with Acme Land Trust in Florida, and its
real estate developments in Stamford, Connecticut.
Names/Subjects: Wood, George (Vice President); Vlavianos, Katy (V.P. as of 1972). Demos, Paul (president – Acme Land); Florida;
Osceola county; Connecticut; Stamford; Acme Land.
Zika Film is included in the Zika realty sub-sub series but it is unknown its conection or if should be separate. Information
includes: Created in New York, 1946 and affiliated with Hellenic Canadian Trust. Connection with Zika Real Estate is unknown.
Articles of Incorporation show Costa Couvaras (President); Helen Pelalas (Secretary); B.J.V. (Treasurer). Folder contains
legal documents, and correspondence with Pierre Zannetos, an architect and civil engineer concerning a development project
in Long Island, NY
Sub Series 8: Regina Footwear Corp., 1941-1949 Sub Series 9: Shipping, 1921-1980
This sub series contains the sub-sub series: Courtage Et Transports, Ships Management, Other shipping companies, correspondence
and telegrams, general, and miscellaneous. The material consists of correspondence (including postcards, telegrams, and radiograms)
legal documents (agreements, leases, and court documents), reports, financial statements, newspaper and journal clippings,
photographs, maps, and ephemera. The records of this series overlap with Allcom. Languages are English, Greek and French.
All sub-sub series are arranged alphabetically, except for miscellaneous which is chronological.
Sub-sub Series 1: Courtage et Transports, 1935-1980
Courtage Et Transports was a French company. The date of their incorporation, as well as B.J.V.‘s specific affiliation with
the company is unknown. There is evidence that he was involved with Courtage in some official capacity as early as 1954 and
unofficially as early as 1945. Although I am not positive it appears that E. Perret was president pre 1954 and John Galani
became president in1955. Other than that, the purpose and administration of the company remains unknown. Folders arranged
alphabetically.
Sub-sub Series 2: Ships Management, 1921-1978
A New York company created in 1949 and ending circa 1964 (found correspondence dated 1964 asking if company should be disbanded).
Nicolaou, George (President); Lentakis, John (Vice President); B.J.V. (Vice President and Chairman of the Board of Directors).
See bound copy: Minutes, by-laws – Ships Management Box #74
Sub-sub Series 3: Other Shipping Companies, 1940-1976 Sub-sub Series 4: Correspondence and telegrams, 1930-1955 Sub-sub Series
5: General, 1934-1958 Sub-sub Series 6: Miscellaneous, 1937-1969 Sub Series 10: Business Miscellaneous, 1923-1999
This sub series is a miscellaneous group of folders that are mixed business items that are not easily identified to which
business they belong, so they are grouped here together. The folders are arranged chronologically.
SERIES 5: Newspaper Publishing, 1895-2000 (Box 77-Box 121, 948 file folders)
The Newspaper publishing series documents Vlavianos engagement with publishing for approximately sixty years. Of particular
interest is the documentation for his involvement with the Greek-language daily paper, Ethnikos Keryx (National Herald). His
interest in the press also led Vlavianos to collect a variety of print materials including newspapers, journals, newsletters,
and clippings, found in the sub series 5 subject files. Both American and European journals are represented. The dominant
language of the series is Greek, but there are also materials in English, French and German. Materials are arranged alphabetically.
Sub series 1: National Herald, 1915-1989 Sub-sub series 1: Administration Files, 1915-1955 Sub-sub series 2: Correspondence,
1924-1986
Sub-sub-sub series 1: Chronological, 1939-1962 Sub-sub-sub series 1: Numerical, 1936-1975 Sub-sub-sub series 1: Alphabetical,
1924-1986 Sub-sub-sub series 1: Letters to Editor, 1940-1952
Sub-sub series 3: Speeches, Editorials, and other Writings, 1918-1989 (Bulk 1940s) Sub-sub series 4: Vlavianos Editorial Files,
1940-1964 Sub-sub series 5: BV Activities Files, 1940-1949 Sub-sub series 6: News Reviews, 1942-1950
Sub series 2: Proini, 1950-2000 Sub series 3: Free World, 1941-1946 Sub series 4: Other, 1920-1992 Sub series 5: Subject Files,
1895-1996
SERIES 6: Legal, 1830-1992 (Box 122-Box 131, 196 file folders)
The Legal series documents Vlavianos’ involvement with law, international politics and diplomacy. Included are: correspondence
from law school and his early law practice, student notes, client/case files from his practicing of law, and subject files
relating to law and his interests. With his background in law he utilized his experience to serve as the Consul of the Republic
of Panama in Greece, as well as, Legal Consultant to the Greek Delegation at the United Nations Conference on International
Organization held in San Francisco, California in 1945. From this appointment, Vlavianos gathered documents, etc. from his
time working within the United Nations. Arrangement is alphabetical for the subseries included in this series.
Subjects are: United Nations, human rights, Cyprus, Greece during World War II, the Greek Civil War, Greek-American relations,
Greek-British relations, Turkey, the Balkans, nuclear disarmament, Cold-War politics, Eastern Europe, Palestine, and Israel.
Sub Series 1: Correspondence, 1910-1939
Documents contained herein reflect B.J. Vlavianos’ years in law school, as well as his early years in the practice of law.
During those years, he resided in Germany, France and Greece. The Zisis correspondence seems to span their early years studying
in law school as well as into the years wherein they practiced law together.
The folders are arranged alphabetically according to their group and documents therein retain their original order. Contained
in these files are correspondence (including postcards, telegrams, and radiograms) legal documents (agreements, leases, and
court documents), reports, financial statements and receipts, business plans, pamphlets, brochures, newspaper and journal
clippings, photographs, and ephemera. Languages are Primarily English, French, German and Greek.
Names/Subjects: Brisol Meyers; Coca-Cola; Galani; Gallic Films; Gavvidis, Panos; Gugenheim, Felix; Kosmos; Kolynos Co.; Lambrinidi,
L.; Lentakis, Michael; Nea Foni (New Voice); Nicolau, George; Papageorgios, Chrysanthis.; Phenix; Rethymnis & Kulukundis Ltd;
Skull and Crossbones; Thomas, G.; Trepca Mines; Tsin Tsin; Zisis, Petros
Sub Series 2: Student Notes, 1830-1946
Basil J. Vlavianos attended the universities of Leipzig and Munich during the years of 1921 to 1924, from where he received
a Juris Doctor. Handwritten notes include reference to legal codes.
The folders contained herein include handwritten notes on his subjects of study. Also included is a subfolder labeled “my
personal documents, military” which contains official documents regarding Vlavianos’s military service obligations and ability
to leave Greece. Languages are English, German, Greek and French.
Names/Subjects: Jurisprudence; Prenuptial Grants; Roman and Byzantine Law; Lawsuits
Sub Series 3: Client/Case Files - Alphabetical, 1890-1939
This subseries contains documents from Basil J. Vlavianos’s law practice. In addition to legal documents, the folders also
contain correspondence, handwritten notes, and drafts of legal documents.
This subseries is filed alphabetically, by client or case name. The files in the Yiannis (John) Vlavianos folder contain legal
documents, primarily proxies or powers of attorneys. Languages are English, German, Greek and French.
Names/Subjects Bourlos, George; Horsch, Stavros; Kontaro Quarry; Raktiban, Gregory; Sirmalenios, Evangelos; Spentsas, Paraschos;;
Trahilis, A.; Varotsi, Agnes; Vlavianos, Yiannis (John)
Sub Series 4: Case Files - Numerical, 1867-1977 Sub Series 5: Subject Files, 1894-1977
The files contained herein reflect organizations Basil J. V lavianos was involved with, as well as clippings from his newspaper
Ethnikos Keryx.
This subseries contains a portofolio from the Academy for German Law; pages from a Greek encyclopedia regarding graphology;
newspaper clippings from a series called “Three Women, Three Storms”; and documents and guidelines from the Paris Chapter
of the NeoEllenes. Languages are English, German, Greek and French.
Names/Subjects Academy for German Law; Kapodistrias, Ioannis; NeoEllenes; Roussos, G.
Sub Series 6: United Nations, 1940-1992
This sub series contains various documents, correspondence, reports, press releases, and clippings relating to United Nations
and Vlavianos’ involvement therein.
Sub-sub Series 1: General, 1940-1980 Sub-sub Series 2: Reports, 1945-1992 Sub-sub Series 3: Press Releases, Verbatims, etc.,
1943-1986 Sub-sub Series 4: Clippings, 1945, 1985 Sub-sub Series 5: Subjects, 1943-1978
SERIES 7: Associations, 1896-1994 (Box 132-Box 153, 429 file folders)
Vlavianos was a member of many associations and fraternal organizations. The series documents his involvement as member and
sometime association officer. The range of associations was broad. He belonged to academic associations like The American
Society for Hellenic Studies, the American Academy of Political and Social Science, the Modern Greek Studies Association,
the Academy of Athens, and the New York University Faculty Club; interest groups like the American Philatelic Society (stamp
collectors); political groups like Free World Association, International League for the Rights of Man, American Civil Liberties
Union, and United World Federalists Inc.; ethnic associations like the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association
(AHEPA),the Hellenic Cultural Circle, United Hellenic American Congress, and Hellenic Chamber of Commerce; and religious organizations
like the Greek Orthodox Church, St. Michael’s Home for the Aged, and St. Basil’s Academy. The series also contains papers
accumulated by Kati Vlavianos though her work with the Archdiocese for the Greek War Relief Association and the Philoptochos
Ladies Society. Particularly well-documented are AHEPA, the Hellenic Cultural Center, the Ladies Philoptochos Society, and
the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. The series contains a variety of record types including: correspondence, financial
reports, charters, minutes, conference proceedings, speeches, banquet programs, photographs, scrapbooks, songbooks, newsletters,
pamphlets, and ephemera. The AHEPA files contain runs of the AHEPAN Messenger. Languages are Greek and English. The series
is arranged alphabetically by association name.
Subjects include: Greek War Relief, Modern Greek Studies, Greek language, ethnic heritage, human rights, international law,
education, international politics, stamp collecting, and Greek Orthodoxy.
Sub Series 1: AHEPA (American Hellenic Educational Progressive Action), 1922- 1992
Sub-sub Series 1: Correspondence, 1933-1985 Sub-sub Series 2: Administration, 1922-1990 Sub-sub Series 3: Chapters, 1922-1985
Sub-sub Series 4: The Order of AHEPA, 1940-1992 Sub-sub Series 5: Press Releases, Bulletins, Newsletters, 1933-1985 Sub-sub
Series 6: Publications, 1932-1990 Sub-sub Series 7: Events, 1931-1986 Sub-sub Series 8: Other, 1922-1992 Sub Series 2: ASNHS
(American Society for Neo-Hellenic Studies), 1942-1976 Sub Series 3: Filiko/Hellenic Cultural Circle, 1939-1983 Sub Series
4: GWRA (Greek War Relief Association), 1940-1955 (bulk 1940- 1946)
Incorporated on November 8, 1940, the Greek War Relief Association (GWRA) existed as a philanthropic organization which aimed
to collect and distribute humanitarian aid for war-torn Greece. The materials accumulated here cover the period of 1940-1953.
As editor of the National Herald, Vlavianos wrote editorials, lectured, and organized on behalf of the Association. The GWRA
files contain correspondence and cablegrams with members at the highest of the Association. They also contain general Association
records including: project plans, minutes, treasurer reports, GWRA personnel records, donation lists, Shipping Committee Reports,
press releases, newsletters, benefit programs, photographs and clippings. Files include some documentation from other humanitarian
organizations. The series provides important information on war-time Greece, the International Red Cross, and the Greek Diaspora
communities within the United States during a significant period of crisis. It also provides information about post-War reconstruction
and health care. Researchers interested in these subjects should also consult the National Herald files in the Publishing
series, the Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos Society records in the Associations series, and the Basil J. Vlavianos Photograph
collection.
The GWRA files are arranged into alphabetical and general files.
Sub-sub Series 1: Alphabetical Files, 1940-1952 Sub-sub Series 2: General Files, 1940-1955 Sub Series 5: International League
for Human Rights, 1939-1990 Sub Series 6: International League for the Rights of Man, 1944-1984 Sub Series 7: Orthodox Church,
1945-1991 Sub Series 8: Philatelic Society, 1896-1994 Sub-sub Series 1: Correspondence, 1944-1994 Sub-sub Series 2: Society
Business, 1933-1994 Sub-sub Series 3: Bulletins and Newsletters, 1942-1994 Sub-sub Series 4: Publications, 1930-1991 Sub-sub
Series 5: Stamp Miscellaneous, 1896-1991 Sub Series 9: Philoptochos Society, 1930-1990 (bulk 1940s-1960s)
The origins of the Philoptochos Society may be traced to the late nineteenth century during a period of high Greek immigration
to the United States. In 1902, the first Ladies Philoptochos was officially established at the Holy Trinity Church in New
York City when the Society applied to the State of New York for a charter as a philanthropic agency. The aim of the Society
was to provide assistance for newly-arrived immigrants and the poor. In 1931, Archbishop Athenagoras became Primate of the
Greek Orthodox Church in North and South America and under his leadership the Philoptochos Society became a significant philanthropic
auxiliary of the Church. Kati Vlavianos served as Vice President of New York City Holy Trinity Cathedral Philoptochos Society
from 1946-1948, and as its President from 1948-1956. During approximately the same period she served as Vice President of
the Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos Society, or National Philoptochos. She was also elected a member of the National Board
by the General Assembly in 1962. The files contain Philoptochos and Archdiocesan correspondence, planning documents, minutes,
financial reports, banquet programs, concert programs, clippings, newsletters, photographs and scrapbooks. Languages are Greek
and English. Subjects include Greek War Relief, educational programs, and other charitable, philanthropic activities. Researchers
will find a wealth of material about the Philoptochos Society, Archbishop Athenagoras, ecclesiastical activities, and Greek
Orthodox philanthropy.
Holy Trinity Cathedral Ladies Philoptochos Society: 5 record cartons. The Holy Trinity Cathedral Ladies Philoptochos Society
was founded in New York in 1902 as a women’s philanthropic organization associated with the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of
America. The purpose of the organization was to serve the community by providing charitable services to people in need, particularly,
but not exclusively, for Greek-Americans and Greek citizens. For instance, the Philoptochos Society organized charitable events,
raised money, and donated many hours of service to the Greek War Relief Association, Red Cross, St. Basil’s Academy, and the
Ionian Earthquake Relief Fund. Katy Vlavianos, the wife of Basil J. Vlavianos, maintained her membership with the Philoptochos
Society for over 40 years, from 1941 to at least 1984. Katy also held the positions within the Philoptochos Society, specifically
Chairman of the Welfare Committee and Chairman of the Philanthropic Division. This sub-series consists of the years between
1930 and 1990, and the files are arranged in alphabetical order in four sub-sub-series: correspondence, administration, Katy
Vlavianos, and subject files. The sub-series contains photographs, correspondence, letter head, note cards, invitations, radiograms,
telegrams, meeting agendas and minutes, membership lists and cards, by-laws, financial statements and records, history of
the Philoptochos Society, event programs, news paper clippings, certificates (awards and copies of incorporation), pamphlets,
liturgical bulletins, subpoenas and lawsuit documents, press releases, paintings, memorandums, association constitution, and
speeches. The correspondence files contains in-coming and out-going correspondence, notably from the Academy of St. Basil,
Hermes Chapter No. 186 Order of AHEPA, The National Herald, Inc., Royal Consulate of Greece, John D. Kalergis, Archbishop
Iakovos—Primate of the Greek Orthodox Church of North and South America, Greek War Relief Association, Inc., The American
Red Cross New York Chapter, Red Cross 1951 Fund Greek Division, No. 30423, Ionian Islands Relief Fund, Toys to War Orphans,
Daughters of Penelope, Spyros P. Skouras, President 20th Century Fox, Women’s Auxiliary Greek War Relief Association, Inc.,
and the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese Biennial Ecclesiastical Congress. The administration files contain information on the National
Philoptochos Convention Biennial Clergy-Laity Congress, 20th Century Fox Film Corporation and the Gina Bachauer benefit concert,
Greek Ladies Cathedral Philoptochos Society of New York, and History of St. Anna’s Greek Ladies Philoptochos Society. The
Katy Vlavianos files contain information on her award from the Philoptochos Society for 40 years of service, the Greek War
Relief Association, Red Cross 1945 War Fund Greek Division No. 30423, New York National War Fund (1944-45), Greek American
Labor Committee, St. Clare’s Hospital, and The American National Red Cross. The subject files contain information on the Friends
of the Greek Village, American Hellenic Educational & Welfare Fund, National Welfare Relief Fund, “A Protest” Letter to President
Harry S. Truman concerning Greek children abducted during WWII, Junior Auxiliary—Philoptochos Society, Greek War Relief Association/Benefit
Concert: The Philharmonic-Symphony of New York and Dimitri Mitropoulos conducting at Carnegie Hall (1951), Elena Nikolaidi
Benefit Concert for St. Basil’s Greek Orphans (1951), American Red Cross New York Chapter, Royal Consulate General of Greece,
and St. Basil Academy’s by-laws and curriculum. The primary languages used in the Philoptochos Society sub-series are Greek
and English.
Sub-sub Series 1: Correspondence, 1932-1985 Sub-sub Series 2: Administration, 1938-1990 Sub-sub Series 3: Katy Vlavianos,
1941-1983 Sub-sub Series 4: Subject Files, 1930-1984 Sub Series 10: Other Associations, 1923-1989 Sub Series 11: Associations
Miscellaneous, 1935-1993
SERIES 8: Photographs,
To be processed SERIES 9: Artifacts,
To be processed
SERIES 10: Oversize,
To be processed
Arrangement note
I. Correspondence Series–c. 1920-1990 II. Academic Papers Series–c. 1890-1961 (Bulk 1950-1960) III. Political Papers Series–c.
1940-1980 (Bulk 1950-1970's) IV. Businesses Series–c. 1930-1990 (Bulk 1950-1960's) V. Organizations Series–c. 1930-1990 (Bulk
1940-1960's) VI. Subject Files–c. 1920-1990 VII. Personal Items–c. 1920-1990 VIII. Photographs–c. 1913-1990
Chronology
1903 – On January 16, 1903, Basil John Vlavianos was born in Athens, Greece.
1918 – BJV began his studies of philosophy, political cience, economics and law at the University of Athens.
1920 – Received Certificate of Studies in Law.
1924 – Studied in Germany and was awarded Juris Doctor.
1924 – Doctoral Dissertation Zur Lehre von der Blutrache (On the theory of Vendetta)
1925 – Studied at University of Paris and received Certificate of Studies in Law and Forensic Medicine and Pyschology
1925 – Penned Η μεταρρύθμιση του ποινικού νόμου (The Reform of Penal Law).
1925-1935 – Official representative at several international law congresses.
1926 – Formally entered international legal profession.
1927 – Penned Η συστηματική ταξινόμηση των ποινικών επιστημών (The Systematic Classification of Penal Sciences).
1927-1937 – Operated own law firm in Athens.
1932- Married Ekaterina George Nicolaou.
1936- Became a father to one daughter, Zita.
1936-1939 – Served as Consul of the Republic of Panama in Piraeus, Greece.
1937 – Relocated to Paris
1939 – Vlavianos arrived in New York on September 3.
1940 – Acquired the Ethnikos Keryx (The National Herald).
1945 – Served as Legal Consultant to Foreign Minister George Sofianopoulos and the Greek delegation for the United Nations.
1947 – Resigned editorship of The National Herald.
1947- 1961 – Adjunct Professor of Political Affairs and Regional Studies at New York University.
1940s – Founded Arts Inc. and then expanded to the Golden Griffin Bookstore and the Griffin Gallery. Also served on the editorial
boards of Free World and Proini as well as multiple business ventures and real estate interests.
1958 – Naturalized as an American citizen.
1994 – Died in Alexandria, VA on June 27.
Subjects and Indexing Terms
Allied Powers (1919 -).
Tsakopoulos, Angelo
Vlavianos, Basil J.
Greek American newspapers
Greek Americans
Human rights
International law
International shipping laws
Publishing
World War II