Elam, Melissia-Lauretta Peyton Papers

Dates: 1891-1961. Size: 3 linear feet. Accession # 2007/09. Chicago Public Library, Woodson Regional Library, Vivian G. Harsh Research Collection of Afro-American History and Literature. Melissia Elam came to Chicago in 1876 from Missouri. She established a club home for working girls in 1919; it became a center for social and cultural activities. Elam belonged to Quinn Chapel A.M.E. Church. After her death in 1941, the work at Elam Home was carried on by Lauretta Peyton. The papers include personal and organizational correspondence, programs, clippings and memorabilia. [Finding aid, opens a new window]