Help Desk Number:
(404) 978-2052
Russell Atkins Collection 1935-1978
2 linear feet
Russell Atkins (b. 1926) was a poet, composer, editor and teacher in Cleveland, Ohio. He also served as a consultant to, and on panels for, many creative agencies in the Cleveland area. He participated in many workshops and collaborated with poets and musicians on a variety of works. A notable collaborator is poet Langston Hughes. Atkins founded the Free Lance Press in 1950 and served as editor and contributor throughout its 30 year history. Free Lance was a small press magazine for poetry and prose committed to publishing emerging African American poets.
The collection spans from 1935 until the late 1970s. The bulk of the items date in the 1950s to 1970s. The focus of the collection is correspondence related to the Free Lance Press and writings by Atkins. The items written by Atkins contain both typescripts and published materials. Included are anthologies where his works were published and printing paste-ups. Also included are some literary writings by others. Of interest are articles about Atkins that address information about his poetry readings. A few items from his childhood make up the personal ephemera series.
Related collection: Hoyt William Fuller Collection