Scope and Content Note
The papers of Theodore Sherman Palmer (1868-1955) consist primarily of Palmer’s correspondence with fellow ornithologists and with persons interested in the field of ornithology during the years 1877-1954. Included is documentation reflecting his efforts in support of federal and state wildlife conservation measures. The collection does not contain general correspondence for the years 1932-1933 and 1952. The papers are organized into five series: Diaries and Biographical Material, General Correspondence, American Ornithologists Union file, Speech and Article File, and Miscellany.
Much of the collection is devoted to correspondence regarding Palmer’s duties as secretary of the American Ornithologist Union, 1917-1937. Many of these letters are replies to inquiries from Palmer requesting biographical data concerning members of the organization.
There are numerous handwritten drafts of articles that appeared in the ornithological journal The Auk, as well as articles for other scientific publications. The bulk of this material consists of obituaries of fellow members of the American Ornithological Union.
The collection includes diaries from 1877, 1885-1892, 1903-1906, and 1909, as well as memorandum books containing accounts of personal expenses. The collection also contains newspaper clippings and photographs.