Scope and Contents

The first files of the Donald Gordon, Sr. series includes correspondence. The incoming correspondence (1939-1942) includes a Christmas card from Wisconsin governor, Julius Heil and his wife, and two signed letters from 1940 Republican presidential candidate, Wendell Willkie. One letter is personally addressed to Donald Gordon, Sr., while the other is addressed to “Dear Fellow Citizen.” The bulk of the outgoing correspondence (n.d.; 1913-1943) contains letters to his wife, Gertrude, and other family members.

Donald Gordon, Sr.’s educational memorabilia (n.d.; 1910-1922) contains samples of work done in elementary school, a report card from Lincoln School in La Crosse, Wisconsin, and items from Cornell University including a framed athletic certificate from 1921.

Donald Gordon, Sr.’s estate materials (1943-1946) consist of his will; letters he prepared for his wife, Gertrude Salzer Gordon, and Donald Gordon, Jr.; a State of Wisconsin Joint resolution extending condolences to the family; correspondence to the family after Gordon’s death; and financial papers regarding the settlement of his estate.

Political involvement (1940) papers include a welcome badge from the city of Philadelphia to Donald A. Gordon for attending the 1940 Republican National Convention, an October 21, 1940, train ticket to ride on Wendell Willkie’s campaign trip, and a picture of Gordon as part of the Wisconsin State Executive Convention Committee.

Includes Wendell Willkie letters