Scope and Content Note
The papers of Mary French Sheldon (1847-1936) span the years 1885-1938. The collection consists of correspondence, writings, lectures, notes, clippings, an address book, drawings, awards, menus, books, photographs, passports, scrapbooks, and miscellaneous material primarily concerning Sheldon’s interest in Africa, particularly the Belgian Congo. Also included is correspondence relating to her travels and lectures; fictional writings; translations of various works, including Salammbo by Gustave Flaubert; an unpublished work relating to the Congo; drawings by Shelton; and photographs of various subjects, especially Africa. Correspondents include Henry Morton Stanley, Albert I, King of the Belgians, and several of Albert's cabinet ministers.