Scope and Content Note
The papers of Ernest Gallaudet Draper (1885-1954) span the years circa 1919-1955, with the bulk of the material dating from 1928 to 1953, and relate largely to his service as assistant secretary of commerce and as a member of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System.
The speeches and writings cover Draper's career before and during his service with the federal government. Speeches and book reviews written before 1935 concern the business economy, unemployment, and unemployment security. His personal diary, "Stirring Times, 1941-1949" relates to problems that came before the Federal Reserve Board during World War II and the board's discussions and decisions, and to personal matters. Other writings include his recollections as a naval reserve officer during World War I, articles, and a foreword. The bound volumes of speeches and articles begin in 1935 with Draper's service as assistant secretary of commerce and end in 1948 during his membership on the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. Topics include foreign trade, social welfare, business and democracy, trade agreements, banking, small businesses, and defense. The correspondence concerns politics, economic problems, and education. Correspondents include Cordell Hull, Harold L. Ickes, Frances Perkins, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Daniel C. Roper, Harry S. Truman, and Fred M. Vinson.