Comstock papers

Collection — Box: 1-4

Identifier: MS 0524

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

The Alzada Peckham Comstock Papers consist of correspondence, published and unpublished writings, biographical information, and photographs. The papers primarily contain letters written between 1915 and 1922 which document Comstock's activities while a graduate student at Columbia University and later as a teacher at Mount Holyoke College. The letters written while at Mount Holyoke reflect Comstock's intense and affectionate relationship with a Mount Holyoke student, Helen Graves Fisk, class of 1917. Of particular interest are Comstock's notes sent to Fisk regarding their secret meetings. In addition, there are letters to Comstock's close friend and colleague, Amy Hewes. Comstock's writings include articles on taxation policies at home and abroad, including Russia, Hungary and Austria. Also included are Comstock's contributions to the "World Bank Encyclopedia," 1953-1959 and the "New International Year Book," 1958-1958. The biographical information contains articles about Comstock's contributions to the field of economics, as well as essays of her work.

Dates

Creation: 1912-1969

Conditions Governing Access

Unrestricted

Biographical Note

Alzada Peckham Comstock was born on November 23, 1888 in Waterford, Connecticut. She received an A.B. from Mount Holyoke College in 1910, and a master's degree from Columbia University in 1913. Shortly after, she began teaching economics at Mount Holyoke College, and became a full professor in 1927. During the course of her lifetime, she wrote textbooks and various other publications. She was chair of the American Association of University Women for five years and represented the AAUW at various international conferences. She was recognized internationally as an authority on economic issues and problems. Alzada Comstock died on January 15, 1960.

Extent

1.46 Linear Feet (3 full Hollinger and 1 half Hollinger boxes)

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

Comstock, Alzada Peckham, 1888-1960; Economist and college teacher. Mount Holyoke College graduate, 1910. Mount Holyoke College faculty member, 1910-1960. Papers contain correspondence, writings, biographical information and photographs; principally consisting of letters describing her activities as a graduate student at Columbia University, her career at Mount Holyoke and in the field of economics, and her friendships with Helen Graves Fisk and Amy Hewes.