Main content

American Civil Liberties Union: National Committee on Conscientious Objectors Records, 1940-1946 (inclusive)

Extent:

13.25 linear ft. (33 boxes)

Abstract:

The roots of the NCCO began shortly after conscription in WWII was instituted. Little is known about the New York Office of the NCCO. It was headquartered at 31 Union Square West in New York City (NY) where the ACLU had its offices, and was likely set up in 1940, under the chairmanship of Norman Angell, and stayed in existence through 1945. In Washington (DC), the Temporary Committee for Legal Aid to Conscientious Objectors was formed in 1940. R. Boland Brooks had gone to NSBRO (National Service Board for Conscientious Objectors) under the sponsorship of this committee. In 1942, George Reeves and R. Boland Brooks left their posts at the National Service Board for Conscientious Objectors. The relationship of Brooks and the Legal Aid Committee was re-established after the resignations from NSBRO. Reorganizing as Legal Service to Conscientious Objectors, the Committee agreed to sponsor a Washington service bureau, with Brooks as director and Reeves as assistant director. An office was...(see more)

Held at: Swarthmore College Peace Collection [Contact Us]

Main content

Julien D. Cornell Papers, 1940-1947 (inclusive)

Extent:

3.25 linear ft. (3.25 linear feet.)

Abstract:

Julien Cornell (1910-1994) practiced law in New York City, with a special interest in civil liberties. During World War II, he handled many cases for conscientious objectors, as well as advising many other COs about their various problems with the legal system. He was considered an expert on legal issues regarding conscientious objection and Civilian Public Service, and was consulted by many lawyers throughout the country for his opinions.

Held at: Swarthmore College Peace Collection [Contact Us]

Main content

Metropolitan Board for Conscientious Objectors Records, 1940-1980 (inclusive)

Extent:

7.5 linear ft. (7.5 linear ft.)

Abstract:

The Metropolitan Board for Conscientious Objectors was a non-sectarian, free advisory service for conscientious objectors to war and military service. The MBCO was set up to provide counseling and legal aid in metropolitan New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut and established by the United Pacifist Committee in 1940. The group disbanded in 1980.

Held at: Swarthmore College Peace Collection [Contact Us]