The papers of the Paul B. Clemens are divided into two series, Papers and Photographs.
Papers (1904-1987) is divided into two subseries: Military and Public Life. These materials were originally stored in two scrapbooks, one for each of the subseries. Due to the deterioration of the scrapbook paper and adhesives used, the scrapbooks were dismantled. The scrapbook covers, both decorative, have been retained in the collection. The military subseries contains scattered documents relating to Clemens' forty-five years of service in the Wisconsin National Guard. Included are letters received from former president Theodore Roosevelt and prominent American generals John Pershing, William Haan, and Charles King. Roosevelt thanked Clemens for sending a photograph, likely of his son's grave in France, and Pershing declined an invitation to an American Legion function. The letters from Haan and King, who were both personally familiar with Clemens, are much more informal and personable. Haan asked for assistance in researching the history of the 32nd Division in World War I and King wrote about the operation and administration of the Wisconsin National Guard in the early 1920s. Personal military papers document Clemens' long and illustrious service in the Wisconsin National Guard including many certificates of promotion. Identification cards, one each from the two World Wars, also attest to his longevity of service. Papers relating to his public life consist mostly of congratulatory cards and letters Clemens received upon his retirement as assistant superintendent of Milwaukee schools in 1953. Written by co-workers, friends, and military personnel, these letters wish Clemens happiness in retirement. Letters, blueprints, and a program relate to the Burns-Clemens Building at the Wisconsin Veterans Home in King, Wisconsin. Dedicated in 1961 as a “domiciliary-infirmary,” it was named in part after Clemens due to his service on the state Board of Veterans Affairs. Other scattered materials detail other aspects of his life, including service in civic and veterans organizations like the Kiwanis Club and the American Legion. While most newspaper clippings relate to Clemens, some provide information about his son, Paul L. Clemens, a renowned Hollywood portrait painter.
Photographs (1914-1963) contains scattered pictures relating to Clemens' life and career in the military. Included are numerous shots of Clemens in uniform and an autographed photograph of General William Haan. There are also two pictures from Burns-Clemens Hall, several of the paintings of his son Paul L. Clemens, and others of an apparent vacation area called “Shore Acres.”
