Marie Read Smith papers, 1934-1938

Summary

Creator:
Smith, Marie Read
Abstract:
The Marie Read Smith Papers are comprised of a scrapbook, a 1934 issue of Fortune magazine, a letter to Smith's parents, and a photograph of a friend. Smith was a zealous proponent of Benito Mussolini, and the material thus reflects her enthusiastic support and high opinion of the Italian dictator.
Extent:
.42 linear feet 1 box
Language:
English .
Preferred citation:

Identification of specific item; Date (if known); Marie Read Smith Papers; Box and Folder (if known); Rare Book and Manuscript Library, Columbia University Library.

Background

Scope and content:

The collection is comprised of a scrapbook, a July 1934 issue of Fortune magazine, a photograph of a woman Smith met while in Italy, and a letter to Smith's parents. The scrapbook is a thorough documentation of Mussolini's adult life and tenure as Prime Minister, and includes both photographic clippings and news articles. As Smith was an ardent proponent of the dictator, the scrapbook also serves as a tribute. The issue of Fortune magazine includes a special section on Italian fascism, which can be found between pages 46 and 126. The collection also features a handwritten letter addressed to Smith's parents, dated May 21, 1938. The letter describes Smith's encounter with Mussolini while studying in Italy, and is accompanied by a photograph of her friend, Daisy, also a friend of Mussolini, who facilitated the meeting. Albeit brief, the encounter is described by Smith in detail, and the letter also includes observations of Hitler, who was also present at the time.

Biographical / historical:

Marie Read Smith was an avid supporter of Benito Mussolini, the Italian dictator and leader of the National Fascist Party. Likely affiliated with the women's division of the No Foreign War Committee, she was staunchly opposed to American involvement in World War II. In 1938, she was granted a fellowship by Casa Italiana and Barnard College to study in Italy. While there, she had a brief encounter with Mussolini, which is the subject of the letter in this collection.

Acquisition information:
Source of acquisition--Marie Read Smith. Method of acquisition--Gift; Date of acquisition--January 13, 2000.
Processing information:

Papers processed Megan Darlington, MSI Candidate 2013, University of Michigan 5/2/2012.

Finding aid written Megan Darlington, MSI Candidate 2013, University of Michigan 5/2/2012.

Arrangement:

This collection is arranged in 1 series.

Accruals:

Materials may have been added to the collection since this finding aid was prepared. Contact rbml@columbia.edu for more information.

Access and use

Restrictions:

This collection is located off-site. You will need to request this material at least three business days in advance to use the collection in the Rare Book and Manuscript Library reading room.

This collection has no restrictions.

Terms of access:

Reproductions may be made for research purposes. The RBML maintains ownership of the physical material only. Copyright remains with the creator and his/her heirs. The responsibility to secure copyright permission rests with the patron.

Preferred citation:

Identification of specific item; Date (if known); Marie Read Smith Papers; Box and Folder (if known); Rare Book and Manuscript Library, Columbia University Library.

Location of this collection:
6th Floor East Butler Library
535 West 114th St.
New York, NY 10027, United States
Link to repository site
Contact:
(212) 854-5590
rbml@library.columbia.edu