Eric Williams Memorial Collection
Abstract
The books and journals together cover a wide range of disciplines. The papers consist of correspondence, manuscripts of published and unpublished works, drafts of historical writings, research notes, conference documents and a miscellany of reports. A permanent museum exhibit complements the books and papers. It includes photographs, extracts of speeches and memorabilia depicting various aspects of Dr. Williams' life and his contribution to the development of Trinidad and Tobago. A re-creation of Dr. Williams' study forms an integral part of the exhibit.
Dates
- Creation: 1922-1981
Biographical / Historical
Dr. Eric Williams, eminent historian, statesman and scholar was Premier and Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago during the period 1956 to 1981. A graduate of Queens Royal College and Oxford University, he lectured at Howard University and worked at the Anglo-American Caribbean Commission prior to "letting his bucket down" in the political arena of Trinidad and Tobago. He authored several historical works, the most notable of which, Capitalism and Slavery continues to generate scholarly debate more than fifty years after its publication. He died in office in 1981
Extent
700 Linear Feet
Language of Materials
English
Arrangement
Papers |a Organized into six sections: I. The Student, 1922-1939. II. The Teacher, 1932; 1939-1948. III. The International Civil Servant, 1943-1955. IV. The Scholar, 1939-1981. V. The Prime Minister, 1954-1981. VI. The Man (Diaries).
Custodial History
Dr. Eric Williams' library of books, papers, and other memorabilia were bequeathed to his daughter, Erica Williams-Connell. She has placed them on deposit at the Main Library, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine. Mrs. Williams-Connell continues to add material to the collection.
Immediate Source of Acquisition
This collection has been placed on deposit by Erica Williams-Connell since 1989.
General
The collection was accepted for inclusion in the UNESCO Memory of the World Register in July 1999. This reflects its exceptional value and calls for it to be protected for the benefit of all humanity.
- Status
- Completed
- Language of description
- Undetermined
- Script of description
- Code for undetermined script
Repository Details
Part of the The Alma Jordan Library, The University of the West Indies Repository
St. Augustine
Trinidad and Tobago
868-662-2002 Ext 82132
868-662-9238 (Fax)