- Creator
- Harris, M. A., 1908-
- Call number
- Sc MG 215
- Physical description
- 20 items (1 folder)
- Preferred Citation
- [Item], Middleton A. "Spike" Harris letters, Sc MG 215, Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, Manuscripts, Archives and Rare Books Division, The New York Public Library
- Repository
- Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, Manuscripts, Archives and Rare Books Division
- Access to materials
- Request access to this collection.
The Middleton Alexander "Spike" Harris letters consist principally of letters written by Harris to Sidney Kaplan, an English professor. The letters reflect Harris' interest in African American history and his activity as a collector. Some letters discuss the securing of memorabilia and archival items. Included in this collection is a proposal written by Joseph N. Cooper regarding organizing a museum of African American history and culture.
Biographical/historical information
Middleton Allen "Spike" Harris was an author, collector, dealer and historian of African Americana and related research material. He was a founder of the Negro History Associates (conceived in 1963) whose purpose was to educate the public and school children about the role of African Americans in American history. NHA fulfilled its purpose by producing films, erecting commemorative tablets, creating and maintaining traveling exhibits, publishing books, and related activities.
Harris graduated from Howard University with a Bachelor's degree in sociology in 1931 and from Fordham University with a Master's degree in social work in 1965. From 1931 to 1972 he served as a parole officer for the New York State Executive Department, Division of Parole. Harris died in 1977.
Administrative information
Source of acquisition
Gift, Kaplan, Sidney, 10/02/84
Using the collection
Location
Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, Manuscripts, Archives and Rare Books Division515 Malcolm X Boulevard, New York, NY 10037-1801
Second Floor