Collection Information
Size: 13.1 Linear feet
Summary: The papers of Elizabeth Basye Gilmore Holt measure 13.1 linear feet and date from 1923 to 1987. The papers document Holt's career as an art historian, educator, and author based in Washington, D.C., and Georgetown, Maine, through biographical material; correspondences with friends, colleagues, and publishers; writings in the form of one diary and notes, lectures, and essays; extensive project files related to her various books as well as several film projects; printed material such as clippings, brochures, and reference material; and photographic materials that largely consist of lecture slides.
Biographical/Historical Note
Elizabeth Basye Gilmore Holt (1905-1987) was an art historian, educator, and author largely based in Washington, D.C. and Georgetown, Maine. She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin (1929), a master's degree from Radcliffe College (1932), and her doctoral degree at the University of Munich (1934). From 1935-1936 she worked as a technical supervisor for the Works Progress Administration's Federal Arts Project and opened a community art center in Raleigh, North Carolina. Holt taught at Duke University, Michigan State University of East Lansing, Boston University, and other universities over the course of her career.
Provenance
The Elizabeth Basye Gilmore Holt papers were donated to the Archives of American Art in several installments from 1988 to 1991 by Holt's daughter, Elizabeth Holt Muench, and her brother, John A. Gilmore.
Related Materials
Also found in the Archives of American Art is an oral history interview with Elizabeth Basye Gilmore Holt conducted by Josephine Withers in 1978.
Language Note
The diary is in Italian. Some research notes and materials in project files are in German and French.