Encoded in EAD3 : Encoded Archival Description (EAD), Version 3 : Release: 1.1.1 : Release Date: 2019-12-16. Validating against latest version of schema.
Contact information: https://hdl.loc.gov/loc.afc/folklife.contact
Catalog Record: https://lccn.loc.gov/2022655234
Finding aid written in English.
DACS was used as the primary description standard.
Collection material in English.
Western Kentucky University; Donation; 1979.
No further accruals are expected.
The Sarah Gertrude Knott papers were processed by Judith Gray, Todd Harvey, Ann Hoog, and Marcia Segal.
Sarah Gertrude Knott papers, 1934-1979, Library Special Collections, Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, Kentucky. The collection is partially processed. There is some duplication between this collection and the Sarah Gertrude Knott papers. Knott sent her files, with manuscripts, photos, and other materials, to Western Kentucky University and the Library of Congress, with each institution selectively duplicating and sending either original or copied materials to the other institution. The result is that the collections have both complementary and unique materials.
Duplication of collection materials may be governed by copyright and other restrictions.
The Sarah Gertrude Knott papers are open to research. To request materials, please contact the Folklife Reading Room at https://hdl.loc.gov/loc.afc/folklife.contact
Certain restrictions to use or copying of materials may apply.
Researchers wishing to cite this collection should include the following information: [item, date, container number], Sarah Gertrude Knott papers, American Folklife Center, Library of Congress, Washington, D.C.
Sarah Gertrude Knott (1895-1984) was born in Kevil, Ballard County, Kentucky, and attended Georgetown Preparatory School (Ky.) 1919-1920, the University of North Carolina, Washington University in St. Louis (1928-1929) and several drama schools. She founded the National Folk Festival and served as its national director from its start in 1934 through 1971. During this time she also served as director of the first two Florida Folk Festivals (1953-1954). After her retirement she returned to Princeton, Kentucky and died there on November 20, 1984.
Materials concerning the Florida Folk Festival and National Folk Festival received from Western Kentucky University and from Sarah Gertrude Knott beginning in 1979. Some materials were sent in their original form, while others were photocopied and sent, with the originals retained by WKU. Folder headings in the collection were developed from existing folder headings, or created as needed.
The Sarah Gertrude Knott papers are organized in 10 series:
The following terms have been used to index the description of this collection in the LC Catalog. They are grouped by name of person or organization, by subject or location, and by occupation and listed alphabetically.
Catalog Record: https://lccn.loc.gov/2022655234
Background and early days of the association.
Typed draft documents, which include general plans for the 1942 festival, information about the national executive committee and the advisory council, program divisions, and related information. box-folders 1/1, 8/6, 10/12, and 11/9 were formerly housed in one folder, but possibly not received in that grouping. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival story 1942. Handwritten on the folder front: Roberts and Knott - dates; Board of Directors
While the compilation of materials is dated February 5, 1979, the materials included are from earlier dates, not all identified. The compilation is separated into tabbed sections, and includes photocopies and original materials, and an original 1940 National Folk Festival program. The folder includes an envelope with a typed note from Knott and a pamphlet about folk recordings selected from the Archive of Folk Song, and published by the Music Division. The compilation was formerly in a three-ring binder. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: The National Folk Festival story through articles (1/2).
The folder includes an original 1969 National Folk Festival program. See description for box-folder 1/2. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: The National Folk Festival story through articles (2/2).
Photocopies and original documents. Received at AFC in a three-ring binder with the heading: Highlights of the National Folk Festival, Inc.
See description for box-folder 1/4.
See description for box-folder 1/4.
The original, handwritten charts have been relocated to box-folder 12/1. They were received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Charts - national, regional, state, and community. This folder is in the current folder.
Two original, handwritten charts with numerous accordion folds, and some photocopied parts. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Charts - national, regional, state, and community. Relocated from box-folder 1/7.
Printed copy of the cities and states that have hosted the National Folk Festival, plus extensive handwritten notations. Originally in a hole-punched rigid black folder. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival Association charts.
Correspondence regarding Knott's research inquiry about the National Folk Festival in Philadelphia, photocopied materials regarding Chris Sanderson, and related materials. According to the handwritten notes on the front of the folder, it seems Knott wanted these materials organized and used by Western Kentucky University as a resource for states developing folk festivals. The original program has been relocated to box-folder 12/9. The original folder is here. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Recreation and Culture/Princeton Ky - Plan. This folder is in the current folder.
Key documentation for the intention to place Knott papers (which included National Folk Festival Association papers) at either Western Kentucky University, Library of Congress, or both locations. Correspondence between Knott and Western Kentucky University representatives, and Joe Hickerson (Library of Congress), regarding which group of papers would be sent to the respective institutions, and the reasons why. Includes background on the papers and the condition of the documents. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Information from Western Kentucky University and Library of Congress in connection with placement of SGK papers.
Key documents relating to the July 20, 1977, meeting, where the future of folklore and folk activities in Kentucky would be discussed. These documents explain the nature of the Western Kentucky University and Library of Congress collections. Received at AFC with the heading: Letter of Lexington, July 20th meeting from Western Kentucky University to SGK. This folder is in the current folder.
Two letters regarding the archival organization of National Folk Festival Association programs and related materials. Dolliver probably worked at Western Kentucky University. The folder also includes copies of a one-page list of programs, regional festivals, and "search for materials." The contents of this folder come from a folder of miscellaneous papers received as part of a later accrual to this collection.
Includes business correspondence, festival plans, publicity, and related materials.
Page 14 of a draft document, on the verso of 4th National Folk Festival letterhead (1937). The document is part of Knott's first-person account of her history with folk festivals. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Fourth National Folk Festival letterhead.
Original printed document with the general plans, list of the members of the national executive committee, and past participants. Formerly housed in a three-ring binder but not received in the binder. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Sixth National Folk Festival/double letterhead/Washington, D.C. This folder is in the current folder.
Includes correspondence from Knott to Chris Sanderson, and a promotional flyer for Sanderson's published biography, and photocopies of photos from Lot 66, of the Farm Security Administration, held by the Prints and Photographs Division, Library of Congress, accompanied by a handwritten note. Also includes a postcard addressed in type to Alan Lomax, with the dates of the 9th National Folk Festival. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival, 1942.
National Folk Festival Association suggestions to leaders and sponsors (two copies, one with minor notations), correspondence, and photocopies.
Informational communication to National Folk Festival Association members, photocopied newspaper articles, and photocopied catalog cards from the Prints and Photographs Division (typed and with handwritten notations).
Informational communication to National Folk Festival Association members, two photocopies of the festival program (in two sizes), and photocopies of newspaper clippings.
Typed copy of a flyer with the "North American Report" from the
Promotional/information letter from Knott to the members of the Oklahoma Club, with two accompanying pages of information about the festival; a document listing films with festival coverage, a photocopied newspaper article, and a two-page typed document with general information about the 22nd National Folk Festival. The contents of three untitled folders were merged into this folder.
Letter Sarah Gertrude Knott to National Folk Festival "friends" to promote the festival.
Photocopied letter regarding business issues related to the National Folk Festival Association. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: NFFA 1960.
Newspaper clipping, informational communication, and dittoed copies of the conference program held during the festival.
Informational communication about the festival.
Announcement for the 26th National Folk Festival, a typescript excerpt from the Report of Survey of Folk Music written by Knott (with handwritten notations), a memo regarding festival plans, and other planning-stage documents, with handwritten notations. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Festival reports and plans/Covington, Kentucky, 1963.
Festival announcement and correspondence. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival, 1963.
A copy of a letter from Knott to Dr. Leonard Derthick regarding new leadership for National Folk Festival Association, and a copy of a letter from Knott to James Nutter. Both letters refer to a turn of events which led to Knott's departure from National Folk Festival Association leadership. A second copy of the letter to Derthick came from the 1979 accrual. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Der [sic].
Announcement of that fall's concert series (performers and dates), and a ticket order form (part of the same page). Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: NFFA, 1964.
Informational communications to National Folk Festival Association members, and a promotional leaflet.
Correspondence regarding business matters, a proposal for a Folk Activities Clearing House Center in Washington, D.C., and a typed summary/notes from a 1966 folklore conference, where a roundtable discussion focused on tradition bearers and folk traditions.
Correspondence regarding business matters, plus promotional materials, a photocopied clipping, a program for a projected conference, two copies of a Phi Beta Kappa Association announcement for a party to open the 1967-1968 concert season, a copy of a Washington Folk Festival program, and copies of various issues of
Correspondence regarding business matters, plus copies of the announcement for the 31st National Folk Festival, a proposal for a grant to fund a folk activity pilot project, and related materials.
Correspondence regarding business matters, plus general correspondence, the National Folk Festival Association's organization plan, a fact sheet for the 32nd National Folk Festival, a program application blank, related materials involving plans and follow-up, a compilation of responses to Knott's questionnaire requesting information on state-level folk festivals, and the report of a special meeting of the National Folk Festival Association's board of directors.
Photocopied questionnaire results, consolidated from responses sent by various institutions. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Questionnaire 1964-1968.
Two-page photocopy, with photocopied handwritten notations. This folder is in the current folder.
Two photocopies of Knott's response to feedback requesting the names of state-level entities organizing folk festivals and events, and a list of those organizations, with contact names. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: State Arts Councils and National Folk Festival Association. This folder is in the current folder.
Two copies of a folk talent search announcement for Ohio and Kentucky, an announcement for the upcoming National Folk Festival plus a call for talent, a folk talent search announcement for Tennessee and the Appalachian region, a printed pamphlet by Knott ("On the Trail of Folklore - Search for Material"), two copies of an announcement of the National Folk Festival in the greater Washington area, a form letter from Knott to "Syracuse friends" about the National Folk Festival's work to meet the needs of educators in the Syracuse area, and a questionnaire (with a brief, handwritten notation) on Kentucky folk music, dances, and tales. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival Association: miscellaneous talent "searchers."
Knott's letter to National Folk Festival Association "friends" to get commitments for participation in the National Folk Festival in the Washington, D.C., area, with an attached list of potential participants. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Park Service/Washington, D.C.
Quarterly activity report (two published copies, with slight differences between them). Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival Association Programs of American folk culture and living history.
Correspondence regarding business matters, plans for the National Folk Festival, reports, minutes, memos, and National Folk Festival organization articles with attachments. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival Association.
See the description for box-folder 2/25 .
Typed essays (possibly written by Knott), promotional materials, an announcement regarding National Folk Festival Association"s establishment of an office in Washington, D.C., background on the National Folk Festival, a document with names and addresses of advisory board members, and related materials. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival Association: miscellaneous essays, undated memos, and clippings.
Includes promotional and informational mailings from the National Folk Festival Association, correspondence, a typed copy of Knott's "The Folk Festival Movement in America," and a copy of a document charting cities and states sponsoring National Folk Festivals. See box-folder 1/2 for the calendars. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival Association: calendar of folk festivals (2/2).
"Suggested Program Plans to National Folk Festival Association Board," by Sarah Gertrude Knott (very low-contrast/dark photocopy of a typed document). Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: NFFA 1971 Prog. [Suggested Program Plans to National Folk Festival Association Board]. This folder is in the current folder.
A two-page photocopy, with handwritten annotations, of the resolution which replaced Knott as the National Folk Festival Association's Director of Programs (due to health issues), and reassigned her to the new position of Founder and Program Consultant. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: NFFA resolution. This folder is in the current folder.
A copy of the "NFF Chart of the Cities and States sponsoring the National Folk Festivals (1934-1971)." Typed pages with handwritten notations, describing participants and summaries for each festival.
A typed, one-page list of National Folk Festival Association presidents (1934-1971), with handwritten notations.
Correspondence regarding business matters, plans for the National Folk Festival, a document with suggested program plans, attachments from an official report, news releases, schedules, agendas, a program for the "Greater Washington Symposium on Applied Folklore," and related materials. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival Association.
Correspondence regarding business matters, plus memos, minutes of meetings, and a proposal for a documentary film to be made at the 1972 National Folk Festival; a 1972 calendar of folk events (original and revised versions), and related materials. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival Association.
Correspondence, meeting notes, and related materials. Also includes a typed copy of "The People Tell Their Own Story: The Role of the National Folk Festival Association" (21 pages). Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival Association.
A copy of the report of the president's committee, National Folk Festival Association bylaws (1972 and 1973 versions). Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival Association Organizational structure/bylaws.
Correspondence from Knott to Alan Jabbour, plus a photocopy of a newspaper clipping. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Alan Jabbour/Washington D.C. This folder is in the current folder.
Correspondence, minutes, and a 1974 calendar of folk festivals and related events. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival Association.
News releases and a mailing to National Folk Festival Association members about nominations to the board of directors. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: NFFA 1976.
Copies of a National Folk Festival Association news release, and copies of a photocopied National Folk Festival Association mailing to "member." One copy of the news release has a brief, handwritten notation by Knott. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: N.B. Joe [nota bene Joe?]. This folder is in the current folder.
Correspondence with Knott, meeting minutes, and a memo and ballot regarding the NCTA board of directors. The correspondence includes information about the change in the organization's name, and the reasons behind it. A photocopy of
Photocopy of
Photocopies of a typed page with handwritten notes (as part of the photocopy). Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Preparations for 1st Wolf Trap Farm Festival - work book. This folder is in the current folder.
Typed correspondence (some with handwritten notations), newspaper clippings (photocopies and originals), promotional materials for folk events, and other materials. The folder includes a letter from Knott to Pauline Berkey (May 9, 1978) in which Knott says she is packing her papers to Western Kentucky University and the Library of Congress, and another letter to Vyts Beliajus (with the same date), with effectively the same information. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: 3 Book.
Original program for the concert "Folk Songs and Ballads of Abe Lincoln and the Civil War," presented by the Folklore Society of Greater Washington; a three-page letter to "Friends" from Knott, with opinions and reflections requested by Leonard Roberts, following the 33rd National Folk Festival (with criticism of Knott on page 2); a photocopy of Joe Hickerson's interview with May Gadd; a stapled photocopy of blank 1939 National Folk Festival letterhead, along with administrative information about the National Folk Festival; a photocopy of "Smithsonian Folklife Festival - National Folk Festival Association Plans," by Knott (1969), an original program for the 32nd National Folk Festival (1969), two copies of the final program for "Folklore and the Public Sector" (a meeting sponsored by three groups), and a photocopy of a newspaper article (1978). Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: An interview with May Gadd. This folder is in the current folder.
Includes publications from various years (some multiple copies), including NCTA's published calendar of festivals (1977). An original copy of the calendar of festivals (1978) has been relocated to box-folder 12/19. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival Association: calendar of folk festivals (1/2).
An original copy of NCTA's published calendar of festivals. Relocated from box-folder 4/7.
A questionnaire about how organizations serve their respective constituencies. Received in two separate, original folders: one undated, the other dated 1979. Previous folder headings: 1) Questionaires [sic] National Folk Fes. [Festival] and 2) Questionaire [sic] - SGK 1979; the first of these folders is in the current folder.
Two copies of a letter (on National Folk Festival Association letterhead; one original and one photocopy). Topics include a reference to Joe Wilson having early National Folk Festival recordings "redone" (presumably copied) at the Library of Congress; also, a brief handwritten notation on the photocopy.
Photocopy of a typed document (probably written by Knott), with handwritten notes by Knott.
A chart with a compilation of responses to a questionnaire sent to embassies in Washington, The chart has been relocated to box-folder 12/25. D.C. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Embassy charts/Washington, D.C./National Folk Festival Association. This folder is in the current folder.
Possibly a compilation of responses to a questionnaire sent to from embassies in Washington, D.C. Relocated from box-folder 4/11.
The galley-style sheets have been relocated to box-folder 12/26. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival programs (rough drafts). This folder is in the current folder.
Typed text on long, galley-style sheets. Rough drafts of what appear to be program book notes, with extensive details. The paper is delicate, due to acidity and age. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival programs (rough drafts). Relocated from box-folder 4/12.
Includes programs, calendars, promotional materials, and publicity. See box-folder 12/5 for National Folk Festival-related materials from 1938.
Titles for the posters and flyers were created by the archivist.
Photocopied newspaper articles, two copies of a typed flyer with a reminiscences (possibly by Knott), and two photocopies of a typed editorial from
The photocopied newspaper article has been relocated to box-folder 12/2. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival; this folder is with the current folder.
A photocopied article titled "Mountain Music Plus," reprinted from
Two original programs and a promotional brochure for the Texas Centennial exposition entitled "What Is the National Folk Festival?" A two-page plan for the exposition has been relocated to box-folder 12/4. The 1936 folder and materials from a later accrual were merged. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: 3rd National Folk Festival. The "National Folk Festival 1936" folder is in the current folder.
A two-page plan for the Texas Centennial Exposition. Relocated from box-folder 4/15.
Photocopy of the program. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival.
Includes a typed original document about "Questions which pester me," in addition to photocopies of the festival program cover and newspaper publicity.
A photocopied article with handwritten notes. The souvenir program for "United States Night" has been relocated to box-folder 12/6.
Original program for "United States Night." Relocated from box-folder 4/17.
Photocopied newspaper articles.
The "Special school edition," photocopied from the
The original announcement (in fragile condition) has been relocated to box-folder 12/8. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: 12th National Folk Festival 1946. This folder is in the current folder.
Original manuscript (in fragile condition). Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: 12th National Folk Festival 1946. Relocated from box-folder 4/19.
Correspondence and a photocopied festival program.
Photocopied festival flyer.
Original copy of the program. Relocated from box-folder 1/9.
A photocopied festival flyer.
A photocopied festival flyer.
Copies of the original program and a two-page fact sheet on the celebration at the festival of the Louisiana Purchase sesquicentennial.
Copies of the original program.
Copies of the original program and informational correspondence.
An original program and Knott's essay on her work behind the scenes of this festival. These items were received as part of the 1979 accrual.
A photocopied festival flyer, blank festival letterhead, and a photocopied newspaper article.
A photocopied festival flyer, an informational flyers, and a photocopied newspaper article.
An original program. The folder was received at AFC with the same title, and is in the current folder.
Informational correspondence, an original program, and a newspaper clipping.
The original folder had two copies of a one-page typed letter to "Friends of the Syracuse Folk Festival," probably written by Knott, with an overview of plans for the festival, and an original copy of the program for the 30th National Folk Festival, in Syracuse. A later accrual of materials for this year was merged with this folder, and includes festival programs, a centennial issue of
The contents of three folders have been merged. The current folder includes informational flyers, a photocopied newspaper article, and informational communications and announcements. One of the original folders is in the current folder, with the heading: National Folk Festival program/Milwaukee, Wisconsin, 1968. Two original programs have been moved to box-folder 12/14.
Two original copies of the program. Relocated from box-folder 5/12.
Contents include an original program from the 32nd National Folk Festival, and an original page of information for participants, with handwritten notes. A copy of the festival program plus informational correspondence were added to this folder from a later accrual. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: 32 [32nd] National Folk Festival [National Folk Festival] Knoxville, Tenn. This folder is in the current folder.
Promotional materials and original programs. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival program.
Promotional materials and original programs, photos taken at the festival (relocated to Series 10; see PH27-PH51 ), broadsides, two copies of the program, the workshop schedule, the event schedule in calendar form, and a promotional mailing with layouts of photocopied clippings. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival program.
Three copies of the same poster design. Handwritten notes on the verso of one poster. Relocated from box-folder 5/15.
Copies of the program, plus promotional materials, broadsides, and a promotional mailing with layouts of photocopied clippings. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival program, etc. [sic]
Two copies of the same poster design. Relocated from box-folder 5/16.
Copies of the program, an original newspaper clipping, promotional materials, press releases, and broadsides. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival program, etc.
Two copies of the same poster design. Relocated from box-folder 5/17.
Copies of the program, plus press releases, promotional materials, and a poster. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival program, etc.
Relocated from box-folder 6/1.
Two copies of the same poster design. Printed as a flyer that could be folded and mailed. Relocated from box-folder 6/1.
Copies of the program, plus promotional materials, and a poster. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival program, etc.
Relocated from box-folder 6/2.
The original program was received by itself in a folder, and this was merged with a folder of materials from a later accrual, which included another copy of the program, four broadsides, and a promotional flyer for "Folklore in America" (a three-week summer seminar). Three promotional flyers have been relocated to box-folder 12/17. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival Program/Wolf Trap. This folder is in the current folder.
Three promotional flyers: one flyer for "Folklore in America" (a three-week summer seminar) and two flyers announcing the 1977 National Folk Festival. Relocated from box-folder 6/3.
Materials from three folders have been merged into one folder: 1) one original program, 2) materials from a later accrual with copies of the program, plus fold-out calendars, and 3) a section from the newspaper
A section from the newspaper
Copies of the program, plus copies of the fold-out calendar, and a poster. A newspaper clipping has been relocated to box-folder 12/22. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival program, etc. [sic]
A newspaper clipping from the
Relocated from box-folder 6/5.
Copies of the program, plus copies of the fold-out calendar. The newspaper clippings have been relocated to box-folder 12/24. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival program, etc.
Newspaper clippings: one page from the
Two copies of the same poster design. Printed as a flyer that could be folded and mailed. Relocated from box-folder 6/6.
Copies of the program, and copies of the fold-out calendar. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival program, etc.
Two copies of the same poster design. Printed as a flyer that could be folded and mailed. Relocated from box-folder 6/7.
One copy each of original programs from various National Folk Festivals. The photocopied first page for 1947 and 1948 are in box-folders 4/20 and 4/21, respectively.
One copy each of original programs from various National Folk Festivals. See related materials in box-folders 5/1 (1950), 5/2 (1952), 5/7 (1959), 5/8 (1960), and 12/14 (1968).
Copies of the program, an original letter from Lee Udall to Alan Jabbour, a photocopy of the workshop schedule (accompanied by the letter), and copies of the fold-out calendar. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival program, etc.
A copy of the program, plus photocopied news clippings. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival program, etc.
A copy of the program. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival program, etc.
A photocopy of the program, and two original fold-out calendars. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival program, etc.
An original copy of the program. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival program, etc.
Original copy of the newspaper supplement/festival program.
A draft or proposal for a book suggested to Dr. Leonard Roberts for his consideration, with this as the working title, and contributions by various authors including Knott. The intention was to document the folk festival movement and in particular Knott's role in the creation and development of the National Folk Festival Association. Includes handwritten notes from Knott. At the time of this proposal's compilation, Roberts was the director of the Appalachian Studies Center, Pikesville College, Pikesville, Kentucky.
Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Book IA The Folk Festival Movement in the United States, 1934-1976. See the scope and content note for Series 4 for further details.
Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Book IB [The Folk Festival Movement in the United States, 1934-1976]. See the scope and content note for Series 4 for further details.
Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Book IIA The Folk Festival Movement in the United States, 1934-1976. See the scope and content note for Series 4 for further details.
Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Book IIB [The Folk Festival Movement in the United States, 1934-1976]. See the scope and content note for Series 4 for further details.
Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Book IIIA The Folk Festival Movement in the United States, 1934-1976. See the scope and content note for Series 4 for further details.
Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Book IIIB [The Folk Festival Movement in the United States, 1934-1976]. See the scope and content note for Series 4 for further details.
Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Book IVA The Folk Festival Movement in the United States, 1934-1976. See the scope and content note for Series 4 for further details.
Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Book IVB [The Folk Festival Movement in the United States, 1934-1976]. See the scope and content note for Series 4 for further details.
Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Book VA The Folk Festival Movement in the United States, 1934-1976. See the scope and content note for Series 4 for further details.
Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Book VB [The Folk Festival Movement in the United States, 1934-1976]. See the scope and content note for Series 4 for further details.
Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Book VC [The Folk Festival Movement in the United States, 1934-1976]. See the scope and content note for Series 4 for further details.
Activities and subjects specific to Kentucky.
An essay on the history and background of folk culture in Kentucky and the importance of maintaining that heritage. Two copies; one is from a folder of unsorted materials received as part of a later accrual. The first copy was received at AFC in a folder with the heading: The Kentucky Story SGK. box-folders 1/1, 8/6, 10/12, and 11/9 were formerly housed in one folder, but possibly not received in that grouping.
A photocopy of a newsletter from Knott on folk activities in Western Kentucky, and a photocopied list of state-level arts councils, 1969-1970. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Newsletter - Homecoming Knott.
A stapled list of pages (original and ditto) from Western Kentucky University with suggested books on folklore, record companies with folk music offerings, and a list of folk-related subjects that could be used in part "for collection or research." Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Western Kentucky University elective folklore book list. This folder is in the current folder.
Copies of the roster for the Christmas country dance school, Berea College, Berea, Kentucky; names and addresses of the policy committee, staff, members, and others. Two folders were received with the same roster; the contents have been merged. One folder had the header "Country dance lists 1972" and is in the current folder. The second folder had the heading "Christmas Country Dance School/Berea, KY."
Copies of the Christmas Country Dance School schedule worksheet, plus an envelope to Knott. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Christmas country dance school/Berea, Kentucky.
Correspondence between Willis and Knott, on the subject of a conference regarding folk activities in Kentucky. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Kentucky Library and Archives/Margaret Willis. This folder is in the current folder.
A list of names, addresses, and phone numbers for students in the Kentucky Dance Institute, 1978. The original folder is here. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Morehead College Ky. folk dance class.
One copy each of two issues: Vol. 21, No. 2 (April-June 1975) and Vol. 21, No. 4 (October-December 1975). An original newspaper clipping has been relocated to box-folder 12/18. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Kentucky Folklore Record.
A newspaper clipping from the
A complete issue of the magazine
A complete issue of the magazine
A catalog for the University Press of Kentucky. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Kentucky books.
Clippings and newspaper segments (primarily original) from various publications; one typed page with handwritten notations from Knott, and a promotional pamphlet for the 1976 Florida Folk Festival. Some items have handwritten notations. Oversized items have been moved to box-folder 12/15. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Publicity - mostly Kentucky.
Original newspaper segments and clippings, from various publications. Relocated from box-folder 9/4.
An original program for the Deep South Folk Festival, with a handwritten note taped to the first page. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Deep South Folk Festival program. This folder is in the current folder.
Programs from the Smithsonian's Festival of American Folklife, 1976-1978. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Festival of American Folklife program - various years. This folder is in the current folder.
The original and the photocopy of the program have been relocated to box-folder 12/10. The original program is in fragile condition. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: All Florida Folk Festival programs. This folder is in the current folder.
One original program (in fragile condition) and one photocopy of the program. Relocated from box-folder 9/7.
Three copies of the program for the 10th Florida Folk Festival. The programs are in delicate condition. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Florida Folk Festival-1962/material for article on Knott notes. Relocated from box-folder 9/8.
Includes the original programs for 1972 and 1976, and a press release for the 24th annual festival, stapled to a mock-up with two clippings about festival accommodations and resources. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Florida Folk Festival programs/various years. This folder is in the current folder.
The 1975 program is here; the 1962 programs (in fragile condition) have been relocated to box-folder 12/12. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Florida Folk Festival - 1962/material for article on Knott notes. This folder is in the current folder.
Programs for the 1976 and 1977 Florida Folk Festival, and one each of a promotional brochure and program for the 27th Florida Folk Festival (1979). The original folder is here. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Florida Folk Fes [sic]. This folder is in the current folder.
A program for the San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival, with handwritten notes on the cover and in the pages, and a typed letter from Austin to Knott, with handwritten notes on the verso. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Leonard Austin. This folder is in the current folder.
Copies of a typed document, "Some Festivals Mentioned in Book: Information for Publisher." Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Some folk festivals mentioned in "Folk Festivals and Folklore USA." This folder is in the current folder.
Original announcements: one for the 1972 Mountain Heritage Folk Festival and one for the 1972 Mountain Music Festival. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Mountain Heritage Folk Festival.
1976 calendar of folk festivals and related events, published by the National Folk Festival Association. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival Association Folk Festival Calendar 1976.
Typed, fold-out document with extensive handwritten notes. The document itself has "directed" rather than "planned;" Leonard Roberts has written on the folder "These are not National Folk Festival." Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Chart - community, state and regional festivals planned by SGK. This folder is in the current folder.
An original handout with suggestions on how communities can develop festivals, and a photocopy of an excerpt from the addresses and conferences of a Norwegian folk music event. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: A Few Suggestions for Community Folk Festivals.
Copies of the program, one with handwritten notes and registration forms attached, and an informational pamphlet for the Continuing Education Center, Florence Schneider Hall, Western Kentucky University. See box-folder 9/19. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Western Conference program.
Copies of the program, one with handwritten notes. See box-folder 9/19. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Folklore and the Public Sector/final program/Western Kentucky University. This folder is in the current folder.
Photocopy of an article published in the
Written by Knott, John F. Putnam, and George Simpson, and published by National Folk Festival Association. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival Association Folk Festival Handbook 1976.
Knott's copy of the program for the 50th anniversary celebration, with handwritten notations.
A printed list of Christmas gift suggestions from the Country Dance and Song Society sales department (undated), and copy of the newspaper
A promotional brochure. The original folder is in the current folder.
Original promotional leaflet, photocopied news clippings, and an original letter from Steve Cates to Knott. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Rutherford County Square Dancers/Steve Cates - Tennessee.
Separated pages from an issue of
Archivist's note: this is a Lithuanian magazine dedicated to folk music/life.
Promotional flyer for
Press release from National Public Radio (NPR) on "Fifty Years of Folk Festivals" (an upcoming program), plus two copies of an NPR fact sheet. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Public Radio.
Promotional literature for various festivals, exhibits, educational programs, publications, etc. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Folders and pamphlets. This folder is in the current folder.
Two copies of an informational page that may have accompanied an issue of
A typed publication called "American Folklore: A Bibliography of Major Works," compiled by Joe Hickerson, Head, Archive of Folk Song (original copy with handwritten annotations by Knott). Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Bibliography of major works/Library of Congress/Folk Music Division.
Typed original and photocopied pages, with some handwritten annotations and numbering. Part of the "Folk Festivals and Folklore, USA." Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Folk Dance English. This folder is in the current folder.
Handwritten letter from Mary Agnes Starr to Knott, a copy of the
Photocopied excerpt from the
Promotional materials for various events, plus a handwritten postcard addressed to Knott.
Promotional materials for continuing education opportunities and workshops from various institutions, plus event programs, correspondence, newspaper clippings, and announcements. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: National Folk Festival Association - other programs, festivals, and activities.
Original typed letter on Harp and Shamrock Club letterhead from Pat Roche to Knott (1975), and two photocopies of an offer to "Friend or Member" to join the club's board, which Knott accepted (1978). The offer letters have photocopied, handwritten notes from Knott and a photocopied, handwritten letter from Pat Roche to Knott, attached. The original letter has the date "1945" typed on it (a typo), though the letterhead has "1975" preprinted on it. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Harp and Shamrock Club, Inc. This folder is in the current folder.
Two typed pages with handwritten notations from an unidentified manuscript (undated), and a four-page typed letter from Ralph Page to Knott, with handwritten notations. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: New Hampshire Lore.
Letter from Jon [?] to Knott regarding Chris Sanderson, photocopied wartime letters to National Folk Festival Association participants, seemingly involving Chris Sanderson. Materials received as their own group: promotional flyer for Sanderson Museum and a photocopied newspaper clipping about the museum, two participant tickets for the 24th National Folk Festival (1960), and a Sanderson Museum postcard to Knott from Jon [?]. Materials received as part of a folder of unsorted documents in a later accrual were grouped together with the photocopied folder labeled "Sanderson, Chris; Chaddsford, Pa." box-folders 1/1, 8/6 , 10/12, and 11/9 were formerly housed in one folder, but possibly not received in that grouping.
Letter from Loyal Jones (on Berea College letterhead) to Knott; among other topics he mentions that Joe Wilson's review of his book manuscript on Bascom Lamar Lunsford was negative and likely to preclude its publication.
Draft copies of one or more essays by Knott: "New Mexican Folk Dances," and "Los Mennanos de Sangre de Cristo" (an essay written by Knott around 1940); all items have handwritten notes. Also, a one-page writing by Arthur Campa: "Basic Patterns of American Folklore," which mentions the National Folk Festival at the end. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: New Mexico/Spanish Americans - Campa Arthur. This folder is in the current folder.
Essay on the Missouri Folk Festival (eight-page photocopy of a typed document). Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Essay on the Missouri Folk Festival (eight-page photocopy).
Two copies; the second, in photocopied form, has handwritten notations by Knott (which are part of the photocopy).
Photocopy of "Natural Born Artistry," with typed notes by Knott for the Kentucky Department of Commerce and the Kentucky Commission on the Performing Arts. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Natural born artistry by SGK.
A typescript page and a clipping of the printed version. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: A Tribute to Edith [sic] Moore. Edyth Moore (Knott's longtime secretary) and her sister Vera Rosenthal were twins, who died together in a car accident. This folder is in the current folder.
Photocopies of "Knott notes" (Knott's newspaper column), typed fragments of essays (some with handwritten notes), and an original typed appreciation of Bascom Lamar Lunsford, as well as a draft and printed copies of "A Dream Come True - In Sight!" by Knott, about the festival and NFFA. Other copies of "Knott's Notes" appear elsewhere in the collection. The items in this folder were received as part of a later accrual.
Photocopies of published materials, a typed list of superstitions, handwritten notes on National Folk Festival letterhead, typed documents with handwritten edits, and other partial documents and drafts. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Partial articles and fragments. This folder is in the current folder.
A typed essay by Knott on "Favorite British Ballads and Indigenous Folk Songs," with a small handwritten notation at the top of the first page, and her initials on the last page. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Favorite British Ballads and Folk Songs/SGK.
A photocopied article from
Typed drafts of two essays (probably by Knott): "Folk Dance Movement in Southern Appalachians" and "Why a National Folk Festival in the United States?" Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Folk dance movement in Southern Appalachians. This folder is in the current folder.
Typed essay (probably by Knott), "Folk Dance Movement in Southern Appalachians." Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Folk dance movement in Southern Appalachians. This folder is in the current folder.
Mock-up of an essay, with typed sections taped to pages and handwritten notes on both pages. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Maintaining our cultural heritage Se [sic].
Typed essay by Knott.
Brief, typed essay by Benjamin A. Botkin on "Sarah Gertrude Knott and the Relation of the Folk Festival to 'Art and the Audience,'" followed by a brief essay (on the second/last page), "On Folklore, Folk Festivals, and Sarah Gertrude Knott," by William Hugh Jansen. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Sarah Gertrude Knott and the relation of art and the audience.
Letter from T. Sutton Jett to Knott, with praise for Knott's achievements.
Photocopied letter from Lillian Colby to "Steve"; regrets she cannot attend the event in honor of Knott.
Photocopied certificate for the proclamation of Sarah Gertrude Knott Day, on December 15, 1979.
An original newspaper clipping with a photo of Knott and others, taken at the event to honor her.
Photocopy of a newspaper article.
Two laminated newspaper articles on the celebration in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, honoring Knott; accompanied by clip service folders.
Original newspaper clippings. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Special Publicity. This folder is in the current folder.
The photocopied article ""Mountain Music Plus" has been relocated to box-folder 12/3. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: 2nd National Folk Festival/Chattanooga, Tennessee. This folder is in the current folder.
A photocopied article titled "Mountain Music Plus," reprinted from
Original pages from the April 1939 issue of
Clipping from the
An essay on folklore by Rev. Albert Muntsch, in
Photocopy of an article about the upsurge of folk activities. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Spin Your Own Fun - The Country's Gentlemen. This folder is in the current folder.
Photocopied essay by Paul Green; possibly from the book
A newspaper section on the history of the Zuni nation from the time of Christianity; this has been relocated to box-folder 12/11. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Ceremonial edition newspaper/Indians - Zuni and Navajo. This folder is with the current folder.
Section of a newspaper on the history of the Zuni nation, from the time of Christianity. Relocated from box-folder 11/2.
Photocopy of a folder and a photocopied selection of pages from the Ray Lawless book,
Newspaper clipping from
Offprint from
A photocopy of an article by Archie Green, published in
A published essay, removed from a magazine. Kazee died in 1976. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Kazee, Buell by Jones, Loyal.
Photocopy of an article about Sarah Gertrude Knott's visit to Prestonburg, Kentucky; published in
Photocopy of a newspaper article by Clayton Jones in the
Promotional brochures mailed (in separate envelopes) to Knott and to Sandra Gatedevolt (the latter envelope is unopened). Sections from the
Copies of the newsletter; one has pen marks to indicate articles of note, and this copy also has an insert page of publicity for the Center for Southern Folklore collection. Relocated from box-folder 11/10.
Multiple copies of original newspaper clippings. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Newspaper publicity/various papers and years/Please divide with Western [Western Kentucky University]. This folder is with the current folder.
See the note for box-folder 11/11.
Photocopies of articles about the creation and physical locations of folk festivals. Received at AFC in a folder with the heading: Knott notes.
Photocopied newspaper clippings, from a later accrual.
Typed excerpt from the
Original and photocopied typed correspondence, typed essays, lists of National Folk Festival programs, a letter from Lynwood Montell to Joe Hickerson (in which he says Western Kentucky University has all of the National Folk Festival programs that Knott had)), an original copy of
Photocopies of clippings and documents. Oversized items have been relocated to box-folder 12/27.
Oversized photocopies of newspaper clippings and pages from various National Folk Festival administrative documents, which focus on diversity in festival participation. The folder also includes a photocopy of an original folder with the heading "North of the Border Knott" and with Knott's handwritten notes. Relocated from box-folder 11/16.
Most photo titles are taken from captions accompanying the photos. Titles for PH26-51 were created by the archivist.
French fiddler
This image is trimmed from a larger photo, not with the collection.
This image is trimmed from a larger photo, not with the collection.
Photographed on the campus of Maui College, on the island of Maui.
Photographed in Kiel Auditorium, St. Louis, Missouri.
Also known as Nellie McCay or McKay.
Photos taken at the 1972 National Folk Festival. Images show musicians in performance, people socializing, etc. Gift from Sheryl Gilbert, 1973.