Clifford and Jo Swanlund papers, 1943-2002 | Purdue University Libraries, Archives and Special Collections

Scope and Contents: The Clifford and Jo Swanlund papers (1943-2002; 2 cubic feet) document the lives and careers of Cliff Swanlund and Jo Carty Swanlund. The collection contains an extensive number of letters written by Cliff and Jo from the beginning of their relationship through the early years of their marriage. It also contains many letters written by Cliff's parents to him, while he was a student at Purdue University. The correspondence gives one a unique perspective not only on the family itself, but on outside events which occurred during this time period. The letters are a wonderful memorial to the love and devotion this couple shared throughout their lives. Some of the letters are in poor condition, due to aging of the paper. The photographs also give a glimpse into Purdue life at this time. Some of the photographs are in poor condition, but one can view the subjects. Besides the strong collection of letters, some photographs and albums, there are other ephemera and miscellaneous items related to the Swanlund's lives, such as an autobiography written about the Swanlund family, plus "My Story" written by Clifford A. Swanlund, Jr. The collection consists of four boxes, which are in the order received and the contents are in chronological order, for the most part.