Ernest James Wessen Collection
Scope and Content
The Ernest James Wessen correspondence spans from 1954 to 1969 and documents correspondence to his book scout Paul A. Lundgren. Of particular interest is Wessen's repeated emphasis on the importance of ephemeral, the pamphlet or broadside so likely to be thrown away. The earliest letter addressed to Lundgren is dated December 30, 1961; the last letter is dated September 2, 1968. Also included in the collection is an envelope containing detailed biographical information on Wessen himself.
Dates
- Creation: 1954 - 1969
Language of Materials
The records are in English.
Conditions Governing Access
The collection is open under the rules and regulations of the Ohio University Libraries.
Conditions Governing Use
Ohio University retains all property rights to the collection.
Ohio University retains all copyrights unless retained by the donor, other correspondents, or other artists.
Biography of Ernest James Wessen
Ernest J. Wessen was an antiquarian book dealer whose particular interest lay in America. His catalog entitled "Midland Notes," represented a model of its kind, combining scholarships and humor.
Extent
.33 cubic feet
Abstract
The Ernest James Wessen correspondence spans from 1954 to 1969 and primarily documents correspondence to his book scout Paul A. Lundgren.
Statement of Arrangement
Organized chronologically.
Other Finding Aid
A paper copy of the folder list is available.
Acquisition Information
The Ohio University Archives purchased by the Ohio University Libraries in 1985 from the Ohio Bookhunter.
Existence and Location of Copies
Ohio University will entertain requests to photocopy reasonable amounts of material from the collection for the convenience of individual researchers.
Description Note
Original, legacy collection inventories may contain inaccuracies or be incomplete. Collection descriptions may change or be updated as they are verified. Please contact Mahn Center staff if you note any errors or discrepancies.
Subject
- Wessen, Ernest James, 1887-1974 (Person)
- Lundgren, Paul A. (Person)
- Title
- Finding aid for the Ernest James Wessen Collection
- Author
- Finding aid prepared by Ohio University Archives staff in 1985.
- Date
- 2020
- Language of description
- English
- Script of description
- Latin
- Language of description note
- Finding aid written in English
- Sponsor
- The finding aid was converted into EAD with funding support from the National Historical Publications and Records Commission.
Revision Statements
- 5 January 2024: Subjects and other notes added from ALICE MARC records and Mahn Center Microsoft Office finding aids by Ohio University Libraries Metadata Services Department Python scripts.
Repository Details
Part of the Mahn Center for Archives and Special Collections Repository
