Processing Information
Collection processed by Elizabeth Hollands, 1991.
In general, the film descriptions in this guide record only the data presented in the films themselves. And in most cases this is quite sketchy. Additional research has been conducted on only a few items.
Except for two items with non-accession numbers, no acquisition records came with the films. A number of the prints appear to have come from the Pittsburgh and Allegheny County Health Departments; others probably from a variety of individuals and companies.
A "Film Directory, Medical Sciences Division, NMAH" lists some of these titles with some additional information, which is too sketchy and unexplained to use here. This directory/inventory also includes additional material (in other media) not transferred to the Archives Center and Adventures in Science. which is a separate collection in the Archives Center.
The Collection also includes many titles not on the inventory, many of which appear on Carol Dreyfus's "Medical Sciences Film Catalogue." A CD memo (7/86) in the Control File refers to her handwritten list of additional films brought down. These may be the basis of her "Catalogue."
The series organization probably was made in the Archives Center, and that organization has been retained in the guide for its informational value. However, the 16mm reels (cans, really; a few cans contain more than one roll) have been assigned item numbers, which result in a different organization on the shelves. Each title entry includes its item number. A card file (Films/Shelf Locations) lists all titles, with item numbers, in one alphabetical sequence. The card file also has a Shelflist with all items in numerical order.
Except for material described under Genetic Studies of Infant Behavior. all films have been numbered with a reference print designation. All appear to be release prints, and many are worn. However, no research has been done on the rarity of these prints, so all should be used with caution. Some, no doubt, should be duplicated and retired from use. Any film found worthy of preservation or special protection should be moved to the OF designation.
Preferred Citation
Medical Sciences Film Collection, circa 1930s-1960s, Archives Center, National Museum of American History
Archives Center, National Museum of American History
P.O. Box 37012
Suite 1100, MRC 601
Washington, D.C. 20013-7012
archivescenter@si.edu