Series 1 - Professional correspondence

0.39 m of textual records

This series contains several different groups of incoming and outgoing correspondence. Half of the correspondence has been filed alphabetically by letter. For example, correspondence relating to the Canadian Historical Association is filed under “C” , while correspondence documenting visiting Argentinean Political Scientist José Nun is filed under “N”. This alphabetical correspondence documents everything from his relationships with colleagues and students at the University of Toronto, to invitations to speak, to advice on research topics and innumerable other activities and interests. The correspondence dates mainly from the mid 1960s to the early 1980s.

A second run of correspondence is filed chronologically. Most of his early correspondence prior to 1960 can be found in two files dating from the 1940s. Some files were marked “Personal Correspondence” but this is mainly interpreted to be professional correspondence related directly to Prof. Nelson’s appointments, assessments of his own work, pursuit of research grants, remuneration, etc.. These chronological files do not only contain correspondence but often have attached documents related to the correspondence. For example, correspondence relating to curriculum may have an annotated report attached or correspondence regarding attendance at a conference may have notes or program attached.

Finally, there are a few files with specific subject headings. Most deal with administrative matters relating to his research such as correspondence with research institutions and with the Nuffield Foundation. Of note is one file containing correspondence written by Prof. Nelson in 1966 commenting on changes in curriculum in the department of history and returned to him with reflections on that period in 1989. For further documentation on curriculum changes in the Department of History, see Series 9.

B2007-0023/001 Alphabetical series A-Q
B2007-0023/002 (01)-(05) Alphabetical series R – Z
B2007-0023/002 (06)-(08) Series by year – 1940s – 1976
B2007-0023/003 (01)-(09) Series by year – 1970-2004
B2007-0023/003 (10)-(21) Series by subject

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