William C. Jackson papers

1852-1965

William Calvin Jackson was a leader of local, civic and religious organizations in Springfield, Massachusetts, active primarily in the African-American community. He was a member of a number of organizations, including the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and the Council of Churches of Greater Springfield, where he served as president of the Men's Division. He was also the grand master of the District Grand Lodge of the Grand United Order of the Odd Fellows. Jackson was deacon and chairman of fund raising activities at the Alden Street Baptist Church, and served as treasurer and member of the board of directors of the Douglas Realty Company, a black owned and run agency. He worked for the Mutual Life Insurance Company of Springfield for 43 years, from 1906-1949. The William C. Jackson Papers contain very little personal material, and consists primarily of organizational files including the Past Grand Masters Council of the Grand United Order of Odd Fellows in America. These records contain minutes, correspondence, financial statements, printed manuals, published rules and regulations, rituals, instructions for installation ceremonies, lectures, programs, and songs. Also included are advertisements for dress and regalia. The Alden Street Baptist Church material is represented by correspondence, financial information and programs, 1911-1948. There are also a ledger, financial statements, and correspondence for the Douglas Realty and Loan Company of which Jackson was treasurer. Jackson also served as vice president of the New England Tennis Association; a program from a 1931 tournament forms part of the collection.