The records of the Department of Organization cover primarily the period from 1957 to 1964. The position of Field Organizer was established in 1957 when James T. McCain was given the appointment. However, in 1958 the position was renamed Field Secretary to the National Office, and it was not until 1962 that the actual position of Director of the Department of Organization was established, with Mr. McCain as director.

The director of the Department is responsible for the organization within each of the CORE local chapters. He visits the chapters and submits reports concerning their progress; directs the field secretaries; handles all applications and assignments for CORE projects, such as the Task Force; and organizes training programs for project workers.

The records of the Organization Department are divided into four categories: Correspondence with Individuals, Correspondence by Subject, Local Chapters, and National Office Projects. Within the category titled, “National Office Projects” may be found a great deal of material relating to the Freedom Rides and the CORE Task Force. “Correspondence with Individuals” contains correspondence, applications, and reports concerning personnel working for the national office.