New archives document local African American history

(Feb. 14, 2002)--In celebration of Black History Month, the University of Texas at San Antonio Archive announces four collections newly available for research. The collections include: San Antonio Chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women Records, San Antonio Mother’s Service Organization Records, Gertrude Batiste Papers and Hattie Elam Briscoe Papers. The collections are important in documenting the history and contributions of African American organizations and individuals in San Antonio.

The San Antonio chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women was chartered in 1996 to positively influence the lives of young African American females in San Antonio and to empower all African American women to reach their highest potential. The records document the San Antonio chapter’s formation, administrative functions, membership and events and programs during its first five years of existence. Included in the collections are by-laws, financial reports, historical narratives, meeting minutes, rosters, newsletters, event programs and photographs.

Founded in 1945 by Rev. Claude Black Jr., the San Antonio Mother’s Service Organization was the first Black group of Christian women to receive a Texas State charter for a local club. The organization encourages youth to strive for success in their lives and make meaningful contributions to the community. The records include legal documents, correspondence, event programs, membership rosters, newsclippings, newsletters and a scrapbook offering a visual history of the organization's annual events such as the pink tea and scholarship musical.

Hattie Elam Briscoe was the first African American to graduate from St. Mary's University Law School (1956) and the first African American woman to practice law in Bexar County. Diplomas, certificates of awards and memberships, news articles and photographs document the education, career and community involvement of Briscoe.

The collection reflects the numerous honors, awards and accolades received by Briscoe for her professional achievements and community involvement. She is an active member of several organizations including the San Antonio Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, the records of which are also housed in the UTSA Archives.

Gertrude Batiste is known for her volunteer involvement in her church and in the San Antonio community. A former president of the San Antonio Area Council of the Girl Scouts, Batiste retired from the organization in 1992, but continues to participate in the organization.

In addition to her work with the Girl Scouts, the collection documents Batiste's involvement with Windcrest United Methodist Women, San Antonio Women's Celebration and Hall of Fame, San Antonio Alumnae Chapter of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and The Great Ladies of San Antonio, Inc. Included are awards, related clippings, photographs, correspondence and records of Batiste's participation with these organizations.

All of the collections, in addition to related collections, are available for viewing and research at the UTSA Archives located on the second floor of the Institute of Texan Cultures. Reading Room hours are 1-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday. Other times are available by appointment only.

For more information contact Gerrianne Schaad at (210) 458-2381.

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TODAY'S HEADLINES:

UTSA Health Professions Fair 2002 set for Feb. 21
UTSA vocalist, pianist to perform March 4 at Recital Hall
UTSA observes Women's History Week March 4-8
New archives document local African American history
UTSA to receive NEH challenge grant for professorship

UTSA Today Front Page

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