Collections : [University of Michigan Bentley Historical Library]

The Background series includes bylaws, operating structure, and constitutions from several different years (to show the changes from one period to the next).

The Background series (1991-1997, 12 folders) provides a brief introduction to Center for Western European Studies (CWES) and OIP activities. These files include an outline of CWES' main areas of development since 1977, an administrative structure outline of CWES, and information and publicity materials compiled for students about the various OIP programs and about foreign study opportunities in general. This material is housed in boxes 1, 8, 13, and 19.

The Background series [4 folders] is of special interest to researchers who want to gain an understanding of Parishfield's life and mission. Materials in this series include several booklets, histories, and other informational material distributed by the community. The book project folder contains a number of historical summaries in addition to demonstrating how members of Parishfield felt about the value of the community four years after it closed. Also included are materials documenting the closing of Parishfield in 1967.

The Background series (0.1 linear feet, 1989-2004) contains two folders that provide an overview of Affirmations. The first file, General Overview, features select documents that reflect the organization's overall philosophy and activities. The second file is of special note in that it contains the booklet entitled "The First Fifteen Years: An Anniversary Book" that chronicles the history and lifespan of Affirmations from 1989 to 2004. Additional information about the organization in general can also be found in the beginning of the Membership and Volunteers series.

Material in the Background series includes genealogical and biographical information supplied by the donor (a friend of Ringer's daughter) pertaining to William Ringer, his wife Gladys Wells, his brother Horace Thomas Ringer and his father Victor Howard Ringer. Five copy prints (sent by the donor as digital e-mail attachments) feature photographs of Ringer, his wife, and his brothers.

The Background series includes information related to the early years of the church and its administration.

The Background and Administration series, 1986-2006, (0.50 linear feet) contains documents regarding the organization's founders, the goals and objectives, meeting minutes, publications, and acknowledgments.

Background and History, 1972-1995 contains materials documenting the group's foundation and early years. Included are clippings of early press announcements and news articles, correspondence relating to early outreach activities, as well as the first year of Board/Action Committee minutes. Of note within the folder "Brochures, Clippings, and Outreach, 1981-1986" is a memo put out by the Federation of Parents & Friends of Lesbians and Gays regarding its objectives and rules for membership application. Also included are Lansing Area Chapter bylaws and a packet of informational material on the history, mission, and policy stands of the national organization.

The Background and Organization series contains a concise history by A.D. Moore (up to 1980), along with a host of club memorabilia including such things as a list of past officers, pamphlets, clippings, and obituaries of former members. Club statistics are also included, the majority of which are on the early years of the club. Statistics document such membership categories as new members, percentage of new members, membership withdrawn, withdrawal percentages, and dues paying members. This series also series deals with the club's constitutions and amendments and contains various copies of the club's constitution as it was changed and amended over the years. Background and Organization also contains a file on the final meeting of the club in 2004 and a scattering of administrative materials (1985-2003), which includes agendas, meeting minutes, and room reservations for events.