Florence Ryerson papers

1924-1948

Florence Ryerson (1892-1965) was an American playwright and screenwriter. Collection consists of Ryerson's diaries, correspondence, notes, and memoranda. Work diaries kept by Ryerson, chiefly at her homes in Beverly Hills and Canoga Park, California, describe her life and work; the writing of her plays with the aid of her husband, Colin Clements, including "Harriet," based upon the life of Harriet Beecher Stowe, "June Mad," "Strange Bedfellows," and "Welcome Home"; her work as a screenwriter for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer; and her personal life. Also, correspondence with literary agents and producers, and production notes and memoranda relating to the staging of "Harriet" in New York City in collaboration with Charles MacArthur and Helen Hayes. Includes references to stage and screen personalities and Ryerson's reaction to international events in the World War II period.