Scope and Content Note

The papers of the MCVV consist mainly of correspondence and publicity materials resulting from the petition campaign and the voter registration and information drive. The papers are divided primarily by type of document, then arranged chronologically. Included in the chronologically arranged correspondence folders are internal memos and notes; instructions to ward chairmen; correspondence with sponsors, other citizens, and nationally prominent political candidates; minutes; and news releases. The collection also contains financial records, extensive publicity materials, news clippings, copies of the petitions, and some background information of the January, 1967 referendum effort and the Dow Chemical Company protest and strike. Of particular interest in the collection are analytical notes made by Paul H. Hass, a leader of the MCVV and an SHSW staff member, commenting on the progress of the MCVV in securing its objectives. Among the miscellaneous materials are clippings from organizations and individuals who supported the war and others across the country who opposed the war.

Included in the correspondence are messages from the following prominent individuals:

• Walter Cronkite, postcard, March 2, 1968
• Robert Kastenmeier, letters, March 15 and 26, 1968
• Eugene McCarthy, telegram, March 8, 1968
• James Reston, letter, March 12, 1968
• Harold E. Stassen, telegram, March 12, 1968