Minute books and other papers of The Little Owl society, Leeds

This material is held atUniversity of Leeds Special Collections

  • Reference
    • GB 206 MS 1714
  • Dates of Creation
    • 1879-2002
  • Name of Creator
  • Language of Material
    • English
  • Physical Description
    • 30 vols and c.50 other items, manuscript, typescript, printed cards, printed books and journals. The archive is partially housed in two wooden boxes with brass plates bearing the society's badge, and one leather-bound box with the initials H.G.A.

Scope and Content

Comprises: (1) Journal, 2 vols, 1879-1937; (2) Album containing photographs of Little Owl members, 1879-1987; (3) Minute books, 21 vols, 1879-1999; (4) Treasurer's note books, reports and cashbook, 1885-1948; (5) President's and other reports, 1885-1924; (6) Menus and place cards from Little Owl suppers, 1927-1989; Hand-painted card menu holders; (7) Box containing correspondence cards and printing block for Little Owl badge; (8) Programmes of talks, 1888-2002; Copies of papers given by Little Owl members, including "The story of the Little Owl", E.G. Lupton, 1953 and "The Conversation Club of Leeds, 1849-1944", M. Black, 1979; (10) "Little Owl : collected verse", c.1999; (11) Miscellaneous correspondence and obituary notices, 1913-1962; (13) Printed book Conversation Club, Leeds, 1849-1939.

Administrative / Biographical History

The Little Owl was formed in Leeds on 11 November 1879. Initially the twelve members met each week to read and discuss a work of prose or poetry; this evolved into a fortnightly programme of talks and events. Charitable activities were also undertaken, including the Flower Mission and evening entertainments or summer treats for various institutions.

Access Information

Access is unrestricted.

Acquisition Information

The Little Owl.

Note

In English.

Other Finding Aids

A photocopied handwritten list of contents, more detailed than the above, accompanies the archive.