ed by Sterling A.
Brown.

8. Copy of Memorandum from Henry G. Alsberg to State Directors of the
Federal Writers' Project. July 30, 1937.

9. Copy of Memorandum from Henry G. Alsberg to State Directors of the
Federal Writers' Project. September 8, 1937.

[Document 1]

Sent to: NORTH & SOUTH CAROLINA, GEORGIA, ALABAMA,
LOUISIANA, TEXAS, ARKANSAS, TENNESSEE,
KENTUCKY, MISSOURI, MISSISSIPPI, OKLA.

April 1, 1937

Mrs. Eudora R. Richardson, Acting State Director
Federal Writers' Project, WPA
Rooms 321-4, American Bank Building
Richmond, Virginia

Subj: Folklore

Dear Mrs. Richardson:

We have received from Florida a remarkably interesting collection of
autobiographical stories by ex-slaves. Such documentary records by the
survivors of a historic period in America are invaluable, both to the
student of history and to creative writers.

If a volume of such importance can be assembled we will endeavor to
secure its publication. There undoubtedly is material of this sort to be
found in your State by making the proper contact through tactful
interviewers. While it is desirable to give a running story of the life
of each subject, the color and human interest will be greatly enhanced
if it is told largely in the words of the person interviewed. The
peculiar idiom is often more expressive than a literary account.

We shall be very glad to know if you have undertaken any research of
this sort, or plan to do so.

Very truly yours,
George Cronyn
Associate Director
Federal Writers' Project

GWCronyn/a

[Document 2]
(Transcript of Preceding Autograph Memorandum)
[Transcriber's Note: The handwritten version is included in the original
volume.]

4/9/37

Mr. Cronyn:

In replying to this letter I should like for you to commend especially
two stories:

1. _Lula Flannigan_ by Sarah H. Hall Athens, Ga.

2. _Uncle Willis_, Miss Velma Bell, Supervisor, Athens, Ga.

All the stories are worth while but these two are mainly (one entirely)
in dialect and abound in human interest touches. _All the interviewers
should copy the Negro expressions_.

I much prefer to read _un_edited (but typed) "interviews," and I should
like to see as soon as possible all the seventy-five to which Miss
Dillard refers.

It is most important, too, to secure copies of "slave codes, overseers
codes and the like." This item is new and all the states should send in
similar material.

Yours,
John A. Lomax