Manuscript Archival Collections
Hoyt William Fuller Collection
1940-1981
32 linear feet
Hoyt William Fuller (b. 1923 d. 1981) was a writer, editor, college professor, activist, and architect of the black arts movement. Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Fuller moved to Detroit, Michigan during high school and after graduation served in the Army during World War II. After the war, he attended Wayne State University, graduating in 1947 with a degree in English Literature and Journalism. After freelance writing for various publications, in 1961 Fuller became managing editor of the Negro Digest, which was renamed Black World in 1970. The magazine was an organ of the black arts movement until it ceased publication in 1976. Fuller returned to Atlanta in 1977 to edit First World magazine, an international journal of the black world. Having traveled and lived abroad, Fuller's writings about the black experience reflected a broad perspective as he actively struggled for equality among the races. His outspoken and often controversial opinions were frequently voiced in his editorials, articles, and many letters to the media. As a supporter of the black arts movement, Fuller established the Organization of Black American Culture (OBAC), a writer's workshop in Chicago, and launched the concept of the "Black Aesthetic". His book Journey to Africa (c. 1971) is a result of his travels and studies in Africa under a John Hays Whitney Opportunity Fellowship in 1965.
The Hoyt William Fuller Collection contains correspondence, manuscripts, publications, photographs, and memorabilia spanning his career until his death in 1981. His correspondence, both personal and professional, is copious and includes letters sent to and received from family, friends and literary associates. The manuscripts in the collection consist mainly of his published short stories, poetry, essays and lectures, including those written under the pen name "Bari Barrows".
Related collection:
Russell Atkins Collections