The collection consists of articles written by Earl Chapin, clipped from the pages of the Wisconsin edition of the St. Paul Pioneer-Press, from 1951 to 1973. Together, they form a nearly complete collection of Chapin's work as Wisconsin's “Roving Reporter.”
Historical articles concerning the people, places, and industries of western Wisconsin dominate the collection, reflecting Chapin's special interest in local and regional history. News stories and features about contemporary people and events are included as well. Chapin's by-line on those pieces is simply “staff writer.”
The collection is organized into five series: (1) Places (1960-1973), (2) Roving Reporter Columns (1960-1973), (3) Subjects (1960-1973), (4) Microfilm: Places (1951-1961), and (5) Microfilm: Chronological (1951-1961).
The material comprising series 1-3 was received in random order. The archives staff has therefore created the arrangement reflected in the folder titles listed below. Series 4 and 5 consist of scrapbooks, into which Chapin had pasted his earlier articles, and for which an index has been provided. These series have been microfilmed.
Chapin failed to date most of his articles. The archives staff has been able to determine an approximate date for most of the pieces, while many others, particularly those found in series 1-3, remain undated. Additionally, Chapin seldom gives any indication as to the informational sources of his historical articles.
The Chapin collection is especially useful as a basic resource for the researcher interested in the history of western Wisconsin and the St. Croix Valley. It is of greatest value as a source of general information and interesting anecdotes, particularly helpful as a starting place for more advanced research.
