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Walter J. Lear papers, 1923-2008 (bulk)

Extent:

56 linear feet

Abstract:

Walter Jay Lear (1923-2010) was an American physician, public health official, and activist for healthcare reform, LGBTQ+ rights, and numerous other causes. The Walter Lear papers measure 56 linear feet, date from 1923 to 2008, and consist primarily of material relating to Lear's career and activism. Lear's work as the Deputy Commissioner of the Philadelphia Public Health Department and Commissioner of the Southeastern Region of the Pennsylvania Health Department comprise the bulk of the collection. Material relating to his personal life and family is also present.

Held at: University of Pennsylvania: Kislak Center for Special Collections, Rare Books and Manuscripts [Contact Us]

Main content

Institute of Social Medicine and Community Health records and collected research material on the history of health activism, 1947-2003 (inclusive) 1970-1999 (bulk)

Extent:

14 linear feet (14 boxes)

Abstract:

The Institute of Social Medicine and Community Health (ISMCH) was an organization founded by American physician, public health official, and activist Walter Lear that dealt with the documentation of and engagement with the history of health activism in the United States. The Institute of Social Medicine and Community Health records and collected research on the history of health activism currently measures 14 linear feet in 14 boxes and dates from 1947 through 2003, with the majority of the material dating from 1970 through the 1999. The collection consists mostly of Lear's collected research material on the history of health activism in the United States from the post-Civil War period through Lear's death in 2010. There are also administrative records from the ISMCH and work generated by Lear and others under the auspices of the ISMCH.

Held at: University of Pennsylvania: Kislak Center for Special Collections, Rare Books and Manuscripts [Contact Us]