Viola Hill papers, 1909-1948 2.0 Linear Feet (4 boxes; 1 oversize folder)
- Abstract Or Scope
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Viola Hill (1895-1969) was an African American soprano and businesswoman of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Her papers date from 1909-1948, and comprise many folders of professional and personal correspondence; recital programs, sheet music, and scores; clippings and other print materials; music notebooks; tour schedules, contacts, and publicity, including some photographs of Hill; and financial and educational materials. The papers document Hill's career and entrepreneurship as a professionally-trained vocalist; the status and professional activities of African Americans in music across the United States in the early 20th century, including comments about racial discrimination; and the societies, clubs, and educational institutions which supported African American musicians. Acquired as part of the Sallie Bingham Center for Women's History and Culture and the John Hope Franklin Research Center for African and African American History and Culture.
- Collection Context