Inventory of The 27 Club Records

Overview of Collection

Repository: Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System, Auburn Avenue Research Library on African-American Culture and History, 101 Auburn Avenue, N.E., Atlanta, Georgia 30303

Creator: 27 Club (Atlanta, Ga.)

Collection Number: aarl91-006

Title: The 27 Club records

Date: 1949-1969

Quantity: .5 linear ft.

Abstract: The collection consists of the records of The 27 Club (Atlanta, Ga.) from 1949-1969. The records include correspondence, by-laws, memoranda, membership rosters, guest lists, financial records, and minutes documenting the activities and interests of the club regarding the participation of African Americans in society and civil rights. The materials contain information on accommodations for African-American athletes in Atlanta (Ga.), funds for Charlayne Hunter, donations for those in need, and Haitian refugees in the United States. Major correspondents include Fred A. Toomer, Jesse O. Thomas, and E.L. Simon.

Historical Sketch

The "27 Club" is located in Atlanta, Georgia. Its objectives are to encourage, stimulate and promote congenial fellowship for its members, by providing facilities and occasions for such. It creates a forum for the discussion of current topics. It studies and inquires into the social, civic, religions, educational, economic and political participation of the African American population, in this country and other communities.

The 27 Club enlists the cooperation of other clubs and agencies, in improving the general living conditions of African Americans. It secures for the African Americans larger opportunities for the expression of their abilities in keeping with true democratic principles. Any male 27 years old and over, with good moral character and reputation in the community is eligible for membership. Membership includes Resident Actives and Non-Resident Actives (those who were once active, but no longer live in Atlanta). The Resident Actives pay the required annual dues and attend meetings regularly, while Non-Resident members are not required to pay dues unless they attend a regular meeting, while visiting the city. Officers of the organization are a president, vice-president, secretary, assistant secretary and treasure. The officers are elected annually by the 'Active Members' at the November meetings.

Regular meetings are held on the 27th of January, March, May, September and November. Special meetings are called at the request of the Executive Committee, when necessary. The Budget Committee determines the amount of annual dues members should pay. The dues are payable in advance for the calendar year. Active members of the Membership Committee elected members. At least fifty percent (50%) of the membership must be present and must vote during meetings.

Scope and Content Note

The 27 Club Records is approximately ½ linear foot. It contains documentation of correspondence, administrative records of membership and officer election, by-laws, meetings/minutes, financial records, newsletters, leaflets, and newspaper clippings. The collection, which spans the year 1949 to the late 1960s.

I. General Correspondence (1959-1969).

II. Legal Documents and Reports (1951-1966).

III. Printed Materials and Miscellaneous Documents (1950-1962).

IV. Meetings (1957-1966).

V. Financial Records (1958-1966).

Topics Covered

Administrative Information

This collection was donated to the Auburn Avenue Research Library on African American Culture and History, in 1991.

There are no restrictions on the research use of this collection.

Prior permission from the Research Library must be obtained in writing before any portion of this collection can be published or reproduced.

Item, series, The 27 Club Records, Archives Division, Auburn Avenue Research Library on African American Culture and History, Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System.

Processed by Regina Broh-Gastin. Completed on 1991