Manuscripts

The Pondicherry Lodge chapter of the Baker Street Irregulars was created in Springfield in 1947 and met for a few years then the club went dormant in 1949. Glen Milner revived the organization in Springfield in 1989. The group’s members are Sherlock Holmes enthusiasts.

The collection includes information about his family, articles about him, Route 66 postcards, flyers, and publications, Arizona items, Mustang items, correspondence between Robert Waldmire and Marjorie Westphal 1992-1998, artwork by Bob, photos, and Cozy dog items.

Correspondence, literary manuscripts, photographs, and stamp collecting articles by Charles Leonard Skelton, Springfield author.

The collection includes newspaper articles, brochures, programs, and drawings related to the planning and development of the Angel of Hope statue, memorial wall, and surrounding space in Washington Park, the dedication of the statue, and events at the statue.

A collection of documents, newspaper clippings and photographs donated by former association board member Charles Keating.

Documents, newspaper clippings, reports, programs, and photographs from the Muni (Springfield Municipal Opera).

The Springfield Theatre Guild was created in 1946. The first performance at their own theater at 101 E. Lawrence was on November 8, 1951. The organization later changed its name to Springfield Theatre Centre.

The collection contains photographs, programs, scripts, and articles from Junior Theatre productions in the 1950s.

The Springfield Symphony Orchestra had a casual beginning with a few community volunteers who enjoyed playing string instruments. In 1948 a formal organization was incorporated. The orchestra reorganized and changed its name to the Illinois Symphony Orchestra in 1993.