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