Manuscripts
"Although the literal meaning of manuscript is ‘handwritten’, the Library’s manuscript collections cover all kinds of unpublished written records and many contain published and pictorial records as well. The kinds of records are extremely diverse: letters, diaries, notebooks, speeches, lectures, drafts of books and articles, research or reference files, cutting books, photographs, drawings, minute books, agenda papers, logbooks, financial records, maps and plans." (https://perma.cc/DKV4-4VZC)
The manuscripts in Special Collections are largely representative of Oswego County and New York State and vary in subject and size. Several finding aids are available online. A sample of the manuscripts are:
- MS 009: Marshall Family Papers
Guide to the Marshall Family Papers (1762-1908). Prepared by Donald W. Barden and Charles W. Brownson, May 1975.
- MS 083: War Refugees of Fort Ontario papers, 1944-1945.
The letters contained in the War Refugees of Fort Ontario papers are photocopies of original correspondence between refugees held at the center and a local English teacher identified as Miss Wood. Most of the letters contain biographies of the writers including past experiences in Europe and the activities of the refugee shelter. 1 folder (37 items). Frank Mazzolli gift, 1988.
MS 003 Millard Fillmore Papers
Digitized versions of the the papers are available via NY Heritage Digital Collections
Finding aid for the Van Keuren Native American Collection
MS 085 One Room Schoolhouse Association of Oswego County
Finding aid for the One Room Schoolhouse Association of Oswego County
MS 131 The Emergency Refugee Shelter at Fort Ontario
Finding aid for the Emergency Refugee Shelter at Fort Ontario
Please use the Penfield Library online catalog to search for manuscripts.
If you have questions, please inquire through email archives@oswego.edu or through Archives and Special Collections inquiry form
Emergency Refugee Shelter at Fort Ontario
Emergency Refugee Shelter at Fort Ontario: Jewish haven at Oswego, N.Y.
Included are copies of Ontario Chronicle, correspondence, video recordings of reunions, oral histories and transcripts.
Special Collections MS 131. 3 boxes