Edward Kennedy Papers

Collection

Identifier: MsC0442

Staff Only
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Scope and Contents

The papers of Edward E. Kennedy date from 1921 to 1983 and consist of manuscripts relating chiefly to his activities with the National Farmers Union in the 1930s. There are correspondence files with letters from Milo Reno, Henry A. Wallace, and Guy M. Gillette, speeches given by Kennedy, and newspaper clippings. There is also material relating to his career as a probate judge, specifically subject folders concerning Orphan's Court and judicial reform issues. His work with the United Mine Workers of America is also documented.

Dates

Creation: 1921-1983
Creation: Majority of material found within 1930-1939

Creator

Kennedy, Edward (Person)

Conditions Governing Access

This collection is open for research.

Conditions Governing Use

Biographical / Historical

Edward Eugene Kennedy was born in Grand Junction, Iowa, on April 12, 1894. He began his career as a livestock and grain farmer in Iowa and Minnesota. From 1931 to 1937, he was secretary/treasurer of the National Farmers Union. He also worked as a lobbyist in Washington, D.C. Kennedy founded the National Farmers Guild in 1939. In 1942, he became associated with John L. Lewis' attempt to organize dairy farmers into a union. After that failed, Kennedy stayed with District 50 of the United Mine Workers of America as a research director and economist from 1942 to 1970. He became the Chief Judge of Orphan's Court in Howard County, Maryland, in 1971. He served as president of the Maryland Association of Probate Judges. Kennedy was active in many other civic and political organizations, including member of the county council for Howard County and member of Maryland's Democratic Central Committee.

Extent

1.50 Linear Feet

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

Judge, economist, statistician, and union official. Papers relating primarily to Kennedy's activities with the National Farmers' Union in the 1930s. Also contains subject files relating to his work as a probate judge and with the United Mine Workers of America.