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Collection Number: 05436

Collection Title: Porter Lee Fortune Papers, 1936-1990

This collection has access restrictions. For details, please see the restrictions.

This is a finding aid. It is a description of archival material held in the Wilson Library at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Unless otherwise noted, the materials described below are physically available in our reading room, and not digitally available through the World Wide Web. See the Duplication Policy section for more information.


expand/collapse Expand/collapse Collection Overview

Size 13.0 feet of linear shelf space (approximately 5000 items)
Abstract Porter Lee Fortune (1920-1989) was born near Old Fort, N.C. During World War II he served in the United States Navy in the South Pacific, including the Solomon Islands. He received his Ph.D. in American History from the University of North Carolina in 1949. Fortune went on to be dean of Mississippi Southern College, 1956-1961; executive secretary of the National Exchange Club, 1961-1969; and the chancellor of the University of Mississippi, 1969-1984. The collection documents the personal and professional affairs of Porter Lee Fortune (1920-1989). Correspondence chiefly consists of letters sent by Fortune to his parents in Old Fort, N.C., describing his daily life, studies at the University of North Carolina, U.S. Navy service, and family life from the 1940s to 1980s. There are similar letters from his wife, Elizabeth Cummings Fortune, and his brother, Vernon L. Fortune. Of note are Porter Lee Fortune's letters, 1946 and 1968-1970, that describe racial tensions and protests at universities in Georgia and Mississippi. Professional correspondence and subject files, which include speeches, clippings, printed materials, and audiovisual materials, document University of Mississippi chancellor's office activities, special events, and visitors; the Confederate flag controversy at Ole Miss; and Exchange Club conventions and other programs. Photographs, both color and black-and-white images, include posed and candid snapshots and portraits depicting Porter Lee Fortune in his various professional roles and with his family. Other materials include a scrapbook for the Old Fort High School class of 1937.
Creator Fortune, Porter Lee.
Curatorial Unit University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Library. Southern Historical Collection.
Language English
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expand/collapse Expand/collapse Information For Users

Restrictions to Access
Use of audiotapes or videotapes may require production of listening or viewing copies.
Restrictions to Use
No usage restrictions.
Copyright Notice
Copyright is retained by the authors of items in these papers, or their descendants, as stipulated by United States copyright law.
Preferred Citation
[Identification of item], in the Porter Lee Fortune Papers #5436, Southern Historical Collection, The Wilson Library, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Acquisitions Information
Received from Jean Fortune Kaplan of Graham, N.C., in June 2009 (Acc. 101145).
Sensitive Materials Statement
Manuscript collections and archival records may contain materials with sensitive or confidential information that is protected under federal or state right to privacy laws and regulations, the North Carolina Public Records Act (N.C.G.S. § 132 1 et seq.), and Article 7 of the North Carolina State Personnel Act (Privacy of State Employee Personnel Records, N.C.G.S. § 126-22 et seq.). Researchers are advised that the disclosure of certain information pertaining to identifiable living individuals represented in this collection without the consent of those individuals may have legal ramifications (e.g., a cause of action under common law for invasion of privacy may arise if facts concerning an individual's private life are published that would be deemed highly offensive to a reasonable person) for which the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill assumes no responsibility.
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expand/collapse Expand/collapse Processing Information

Processed by: Danielle Fasig and Virginia Ferris, May 2013

Encoded by: Danielle Fasig and Virginia Ferris, May 2013

Updated by: Nancy Kaiser, November 2020

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expand/collapse Expand/collapse Subject Headings

The following terms from Library of Congress Subject Headings suggest topics, persons, geography, etc. interspersed through the entire collection; the terms do not usually represent discrete and easily identifiable portions of the collection--such as folders or items.

Clicking on a subject heading below will take you into the University Library's online catalog.

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expand/collapse Expand/collapse Biographical Information

Porter Lee Fortune was born near Old Fort, N.C., on 2 July 1920 to Porter Lee Fortune Sr. and Eunice Fortune. He received his B.A. from the University of North Carolina in 1941, his M.A. from Emory University in 1946, and his Ph.D. in American History from the University of North Carolina in 1949. During World War II he served in the United States Navy, in the South Pacific, including the Solomon Island. Fortune was stationed on the USS-APC-2 and later as Lieutenant Commander of the USS-Hooper Island. He received a Bronze Star in 1943 for heroism in action in the Southwest Pacific.

Porter Lee Fortune was dean of Mississippi Southern College from 1956 to 1961, executive secretary of the National Exchange Club from 1961 to 1969, and the chancellor of the University of Mississippi, also known as Ole Miss, from 1969 to 1984.

Fortune married Mary Elizabeth ("Lib") Cummings, a graduate of the Women's College of North Carolina (now the University of North Carolina at Greensboro), in the early 1940s. Together they had four children: Phil, Jean, Janet, and Carey. Porter Lee Fortune died 14 September 1989.

Vernon L. Fortune, the brother of Porter Lee Fortune, also served in the Navy in the South Pacific. After the war he lived in Salisbury, N.C., with his wife "Brownie."

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expand/collapse Expand/collapse Scope and Content

The collection documents the personal and professional affairs of Porter Lee Fortune (1920-1989).

Series 1 Correspondence chiefly consists of letters sent by Porter Lee Fortune to his parents, Porter Lee Fortune Sr. and Eunice Fortune, in Old Fort, N.C. Letters describe his daily life, studies at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill and Emory University, his service in the U.S. Navy, family life, travel, and various jobs throughout his career. Of note are Fortune's letters, 1946 and 1968-1970, that describe racial tensions and protests at universities in Georgia and Mississippi. There are also letters from Porter Lee Fortune's children and his wife, Elizabeth "Lib" Cummings Fortune. Professional correspondence is from when Fortune served as chancellor of the University of Mississippi. Notable correspondents include Lee Wells, Jill Faulkner Summer, author Willie Morris, and Porter Lee Fortune's assistant, Leone King. Topics include university and Exchange Club events, invitations to speak or to attend events, and other professional concerns. Correspondence with Leone King also includes information on the Confederate flag controversy at the University of Mississippi in 1983.

Series 2 Vernon L. Fortune Correspondence includes letters sent by Vernon L. Fortune and his wife, "Brownie," to his parents Porter Lee Fortune Sr. and Eunice Fortune in Old Fort, N.C., and scattered letters to his brother Porter Lee Fortune. Most of the letters relate to Vernon L. Fortune's training and service in the Navy in the South Pacific during World War II, daily life, health, Brownie's employment during the war, and life after the war in Salisbury, N.C.

Series 3 Subject Files relates to Porter Lee Fortune's service in the Navy, his academic life, and his professional career spanning his time at Mississippi Southern College, his ongoing involvement with the National Exchange Club, and his years as chancellor at the University of Mississippi. Files from the University of Mississippi comprise the majority of materials in the subject files and chiefly document chancellor's office activities and special events and visitors, as well as the 1983 controversy surrounding the use of the Confederate flag at University events. Materials include speeches, correspondence, printed materials, clippings, and scattered photographs. Also included are clippings, photographs, and social correspondence relating to Elizabeth Cummings Fortune's involvement in social and philanthropic functions and National Exchange Club events, circa 1960-1980. There are a few videotapes and audiocassettes from events at the University of Mississippi.

Series 4 Photographs, Photographs, both color and black-and-white images, include posed and candid snapshots and portraits depicting Porter Lee Fortune in his various professional roles and with his family. Many photographs document events attended or hosted by Porter Lee Fortune, including campus events at Mississippi Southern College; National Exchange Club Conventions (including conventions in Honolulu, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico); Exchange Club dinners and award presentations around the United States; and award presentations, receptions, building dedications, and football games at the University of Mississippi. Many photographs are annotated with identifying names and locations. There are also scattered personal and family photographs and snapshots from Fortune's service in the Navy in the 1940s, depicting scenes on the U.S.S. APc-2 and on the Solomon Islands. Elizabeth Cummings Fortune is featured chiefly in photographs from the 1940s, and accompanying her husband at events primarily after 1968.

Note that, for the most part, original folder groupings have been retained; original file titles are also noted.

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Contents list

expand/collapse Expand/collapse Series Quick Links

expand/collapse Expand/collapse Series 1. Correspondence, 1936-1990.

About 3000 items.

Correspondence primarily consists of letters sent by Porter Lee Fortune to his parents, Porter Lee Fortune Sr. and Eunice Fortune, in Old Fort, N.C. These letters span most of Porter Lee Fortune's life and document his time as a student at the University of North Carolina and Emory University, his service in the Navy, and various jobs, including his position as chancellor of the University of Mississippi. Letters concern his daily life, his studies, his travels, his jobs, and his family life. A large number of the letters were sent during his service in the U.S. Navy. Also of note are letters, 1946 and 1968-1970, that describe racial tensions and protests at universities in Georgia and Mississippi. Other letters to Porter Lee Fortune Sr. and Eunice Fortune are from their grandchildren and daughter-in-law, Elizabeth "Lib" Cummings Fortune.

The series also contains professional correspondence between Porter Lee Fortune and various others during his time as chancellor of the University of Mississippi. Notable correspondents include Lee Wells, Jill Faulkner Summer, author Willie Morris, and Porter Lee Fortune's assistant, Leone King. Topics include university events, invitations to speak or to attend events, and other professional concerns. Correspondence with Leone King also includes information on the Confederate flag controversy at the University of Mississippi "Ole Miss" in 1983.

Folder 1

Letters to Porter Lee Fortune Sr. and Eunice Fortune, 1936-1946

Chiefly from various correspondents but with isolated postcards from Porter Lee Fortune at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. Also includes a life insurance policy for Eunice Fortune.

Folder 2-36

Folder 2

Folder 3

Folder 4

Folder 5

Folder 6

Folder 7

Folder 8

Folder 9

Folder 10

Folder 11

Folder 12

Folder 13

Folder 14

Folder 15

Folder 16

Folder 17

Folder 18

Folder 19

Folder 20

Folder 21

Folder 22

Folder 23

Folder 24

Folder 25

Folder 26

Folder 27

Folder 28

Folder 29

Folder 30

Folder 31

Folder 32

Folder 33

Folder 34

Folder 35

Folder 36

Letters to Old Fort, N.C., 1937-1984

Primarily letters from Porter Lee Fortune to his parents, Porter Lee Fortune Sr. and Eunice Fortune. Letters concern daily life throughout the years, including graduate school and professional positions at Mississippi Southern College, the National Exchange Club, and the University of Mississippi, and discuss Porter Lee Fortune's health and hospital stays, family news, weather, gardening, football, and other personal affairs. Letters in 1968 through 1970 describe racial tensions and protests on the campus of the University of Mississippi. There are also letters about or from Porter Lee Fortune's children, Phil, Jean, Janet, and Carey. Original folder title has been retained.

Folder 37-42

Folder 37

Folder 38

Folder 39

Folder 40

Folder 41

Folder 42

Correspondence between Porter Lee Fortune and Elizabeth "Lib" Cummings Fortune, 1939-1989 (bulk 1939-1944, 1957-1966, 1982-1989)

Letters from 1939-1944 are chiefly from Elizabeth Cummings Fortune to Porter Lee Fortune during his training for the U.S. Naval Reserve. Her letters discuss their engagement and wedding plans, her life as a student at the Women's College in Greensboro, N.C., and include occasional reference to working at the Carolina Inn in Chapel Hill, N.C.

Folder 43

Letters from Porter Lee Fortune to his parents written from the University of North Carolina, 1939-1947

Folder 44

Letters from Porter Lee Fortune to his parents written from Emory University, 1941

Letters concern his work as a teaching assistant, World War II, and his daily life.

Folder 45

Letters from Porter Lee Fortune to his parents written from Midshipman's School, 1942

Letters concern daily life and training in the Navy.

Folder 46-47

Folder 46

Folder 47

Letters from Porter Lee Fortune to his parents written from Mayport, Fla., 1942-1943

Letters concern daily life and training in the Navy.

Folder 48-54

Folder 48

Folder 49

Folder 50

Folder 51

Folder 52

Folder 53

Folder 54

Letters from Porter Lee Fortune to his parents written from the USS-APC-2, 1942-1944

Letters concern World War II, daily life on an escort ship in the South Pacific, the islands and their natives, and his pending transfer to a new ship.

Folder 55

Letters from Porter Lee Fortune to his parents written from the United States Naval Training Center, Miami, Fla., 1944

Letters concern daily life and training in the Navy.

Folder 56-58

Folder 56

Folder 57

Folder 58

Letters from Porter Lee Fortune to his parents written from New Port, R.I., 1945

Letters concern training, daily life, and Porter Lee Fortune's new wife, Elizabeth "Lib" Cummings.

Folder 59-60

Folder 59

Folder 60

Letters from Porter Lee Fortune to his parents written from the USS-Hooper Island, 1945

Letters concern training and daily life on a Navy escort ship in the South Pacific, thoughts about World War II and the atomic bomb, family and the birth of the Fortune's first child.

Folder 61

Letters from Porter Lee Fortune to his parents written during other Naval duty, 1944-1946

Letters concern daily life and training in the Navy. There are also letters about the death of Elizabeth Cumming's brother, J.C. Cummings, a member of the Air Force.

Folder 62

Letters to Porter Lee Fortune written from the Naval Reserve, 1945 and 1955-1959

Chiefly forms and form letters to Porter Lee Fortune from the Department of the Navy.

Folder 63-78

Folder 63

Folder 64

Folder 65

Folder 66

Folder 67

Folder 68

Folder 69

Folder 70

Folder 71

Folder 72

Folder 73

Folder 74

Folder 75

Folder 76

Folder 77

Folder 78

Letters from Elizabeth "Lib" Cummings Fortune to Porter Lee Fortune Sr. and Eunice Fortune, 1942-1946

Letters concern visits with parents, daily life, and studies at the Women's College of the University of North Carolina. There are also a few letters sent to Porter Lee Fortune.

Folder 79

Letters from or about J.C. Cummings to Elizabeth Cummings Fortune, 1942-1944

Letters from "Jimmy" Cummings in Ontario, Canada, during his training for the U.S. Air Force. Also includes a letter from Porter Lee Fortune to his parents regarding attending J.C. Cummings' funeral (the letter is dated 20 November 1944, though the year may be an error).

Folder 80

Correspondence of an official nature, 1946-1948

Letters concern his acceptance of a position as an assistant professor at Mississippi Southern College, his contract for that position, and his search for housing in the area. Original folder title has been retained.

Folder 81-82

Folder 81

Folder 82

Letters from Porter Lee Fortune to his parents written from Emory University, 1946

Letters concern his work as a teaching assistant, racial conflict in Georgia universities and Governor Talmadge, and his daily life.

Folder 83-86

Folder 83

Folder 84

Folder 85

Folder 86

Crazy, irrelevant, nutty letters, 1967-1988

Letters complaining about various speakers, events, or decisions made by Porter Lee Fortune as chancellor at the University of Mississippi. Some letters reflect interracial tensions while others are from conspiracy theorists. Original folder title has been retained.

Folder 87

Letters from Doris Cummings to Porter Lee Fortune and Elizabeth Cummings Fortune, 1972-1979

Contains letters to Porter Lee Fortune and Elizabeth Cummings Fortune, from Elizabeth's mother Doris Cummings in High Point, N.C. Letters discuss family news and health.

Folder 88-89

Folder 88

Folder 89

Leone King and Porter Lee Fortune correspondence, 1976-1983

Correspondence between Porter Lee Fortune and his assistant Leone King at the University of Mississippi. Includes cards, thank you notes, and office memos primarily from King to Fortune. Correspondence relates to their friendship and professional activities in the Chancellor's Office, and discuss Fortune's health, family, work events, and the Confederate flag controversy.

Folder 90-91

Folder 90

Folder 91

Lee Wells and Porter Lee Fortune correspondence, 1975-1983

Contains correspondence between Porter Lee Fortune and Lee Wells, his successor as the executive secretary of the National Exchange Club; includes routine correspondence, information about meetings, and responses to visits with each other.

Folder 92

Professional correspondence, 1980-1989

Letters written by Porter Lee Fortune in his role as chancellor of the University of Mississippi. Contains informal business and social correspondence, including letters of sympathy and thanks. Original folder title has been retained.

Folder 93

Elsie Mae Adkins and Porter Lee Fortune correspondence, 1983-1987

Contains correspondence between Porter Lee Fortune and a woman who was caring for his mother, Eunice Fortune. Most of the correspondence regards Elsie Mae Adkin's requests for loans and financial assistance from Porter Lee Fortune

Folder 94

Jill Faulkner Summer and Porter Lee Fortune, 1985

Correspondence regarding planning for a William Faulkner appreciation event at the University of Mississippi.

Folder 95

Letters from Kappa Alpha fraternity to Porter Lee Fortune, 1985-1988

Primarily form letters, newsletters, and invitations from the fraternity's administration. Also contains a letter regarding the death of a pledge and the fraternity's response.

Folder 96-97

Folder 96

Folder 97

VIP Letters, 1967-1989

Contains letters from various important or well-known figures, including Bob Hope, Ted Kennedy, John C. Stannis, Hubert Humphrey, Gerald R. Ford, and Buddie Newman. Most letters are regarding invitations to speak at the University of Mississippi, thank you notes for visits, or responses to his retirement. Also contains an autographed photograph of Ronald Reagan. Original folder title has been retained.

Folder 98-99

Folder 98

Folder 99

Letters to Elizabeth "Lib" Fortune, 1989-1990

Letters of condolence for Porter Lee Fortune's death in September 1989.

Folder 100-116

Folder 100

Folder 101

Folder 102

Folder 103

Folder 104

Folder 105

Folder 106

Folder 107

Folder 108

Folder 109

Folder 110

Folder 111

Folder 112

Folder 113

Folder 114

Folder 115

Folder 116

Postcards, 1946-1981

Sent to Porter Lee Fortune Sr. and Eunice Fortune from their children and their families, particularly Porter Lee Fortune. Postcards were sent from a variety of places, primarily throughout the United States, from vacations and work-related travels.

Folder 117-131

Folder 117

Folder 118

Folder 119

Folder 120

Folder 121

Folder 122

Folder 123

Folder 124

Folder 125

Folder 126

Folder 127

Folder 128

Folder 129

Folder 130

Folder 131

Cards to Old Fort, N.C., 1951-1984

Greeting cards for holidays and birthdays sent by Porter Lee Fortune and other family members to Porter Lee Fortune Sr. and Eunice Fortune. Original folder title has been retained.

Folder 132-133

Folder 132

Folder 133

Unsorted correspondence and related materials, 1949-1970, 1986-1989

Mixed correspondence with friends. Letters in 1989 frequently refer to Porter Lee Fortune's recovery from an illness, and include a letter from Willie Morris (14 August 1989). Original folder title has been retained.

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expand/collapse Expand/collapse Series 2. Vernon L. Fortune Correspondence, 1936-1989.

About 400 items.

Letters sent by Vernon L. Fortune, Porter Lee Fortune's brother, and his wife "Brownie" to his parents, Porter Lee Fortune Sr. and Eunice Fortune, in Old Fort, N.C. Most of the letters were written during World War II, when Vernon L. Fortune was serving in the Navy in the South Pacific. Letters concern daily life, training and service in the Navy, and Brownie's employment during the war. After the war Vernon L. Fortune lived in Salisbury, N.C., and wrote both to his parents and to his brother. These letters primarily concern his daily life, family news, and his health.

Folder 134-136

Folder 134

Folder 135

Folder 136

Letters from Vernon L. Fortune to Porter Fortune Sr. and Eunice Fortune from Mobile, Ala., 1942-1943

Letters concern daily life, particularly job prospects.

Folder 137-140

Folder 137

Folder 138

Folder 139

Folder 140

Letters from Vernon L. Fortune to Porter Fortune Sr. and Eunice Fortune during Navy service, 1943-1946

Letters concern training, Navy life, and shows put on for the troops.

Folder 141-148

Folder 141

Folder 142

Folder 143

Folder 144

Folder 145

Folder 146

Folder 147

Folder 148

Letters from Vernon L. Fortune to Porter Fortune Sr. and Eunice Fortune during Navy service from San Francisco, 1944-1945

Letters concern training and daily life while serving in the Navy in the South Pacific.

Folder 149-150

Folder 149

Folder 150

Letters from "Brownie" to Porter Fortune Sr. and Eunice Fortune from Washington D.C., 1944-1945

Letters concern daily life and work.

Folder 151-152

Folder 151

Folder 152

Letters from Vernon L. Fortune and "Brownie" to Porter Fortune Sr. and Eunice Fortune, 1943-1946

Letters concern daily life.

Folder 153-154

Folder 153

Folder 154

Letters from Vernon L. Fortune to Porter Fortune Sr. and Eunice Fortune from Salisbury, N.C., 1962-1973

Letters primarily concern daily life and family; also contains a property map.

Folder 155

Correspondence of Vernon L. Fortune and "Brownie" Fortune with Porter Lee Fortune, 1936-1989 (bulk 1986-1989)

Includes a 1941 announcement of Vernon L. Fortune's graduation from Old Fort High School; correspondence, 1986-1989, includes cards and letters between Porter Lee Fortune in Oxford, Miss., and Vernon L. Fortune in Old Fort, N.C., regarding daily life, family news, health, and their mother Eunice Fortune.

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expand/collapse Expand/collapse Series 3. Subject Files, 1937-1990.

About 1200 items.

Arrangement: Chronological.

Subject files contain materials relating to Porter Lee Fortune's service in the U.S. Navy, his academic writing, and his professional career spanning his time at Mississippi Southern College, ongoing involvement with the National Exchange Club, and years as chancellor at the University of Mississippi. Files consist primarily of speeches, correspondence, printed materials, clippings, writings, and scattered photographs.

Files from the University of Mississippi comprise the majority of materials in the series. Notable topics include Mississippi Governor William Winter, author and friend Willie Morris, and a 1983 controversy surrounding the use of the Confederate flag at University events. There are also a few videocassettes and audiocassettes documenting special events at the university.

Also included are clippings, photographs, and social correspondence relating to Elizabeth Cummings Fortune's involvement in social and philanthropic functions and National Exchange Club events, circa 1960-1980.

Note that, for the most part, original folder groupings and titles have been retained.

Folder 156

Undergraduate papers, 1937

Essays and notes written by Porter Lee Fortune as an undergraduate at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. Also includes papers regarding Fortune's dormitory room assignment.

Folder 157

University admissions materials, 1941-1947

Correspondence, transcripts, recommendations, and other papers relating to Porter Lee Fortune's applications to graduate school, as well as fellowships and funded positions.

Folder 158-159

Folder 158

Folder 159

U.S.N.R. Midshipman's School, circa 1942

Newsletter from Chaplain C. Leslie Glenn of the U.S. Naval Reserve Midshipman's School in New York, N.Y., and three school composition notebooks of Porter Lee Fortune.

Folder 160-161

Folder 160

Folder 161

U.S.S. Hooper Island, 1946-1947

Navigation charts, notepads, and printed materials, including "The Whooper" newsletter; also includes a small amount of correspondence.

Folder 162

Navy file, 1942-1945

Papers collected during Porter Lee Fortune's time in the Navy. Includes a Request for Leave of Absence (17 December 1942), and isolated printed materials.

Folder 163

Navy file, 1945-1965

Correspondence and official documents relating to Porter Lee Fortune's transfer to inactive duty. Also includes papers from an officers' correspondence course completed by Fortune.

Folder 164

Chapel Hill housing, 1946

Correspondence and other materials relating to Porter Lee Fortune's search for housing in Chapel Hill during his first year of graduate school at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill.

Folder 165-166

Folder 165

Folder 166

M.A. thesis, 1946

Typed draft of Porter Lee Fortune's M.A. thesis at Emory University, "U.S.-Japanese Relations 1937-1944, a study in American diplomatic history," with handwritten edits and some loose pages of notes.

Folder 167

Academic writings, 1947-1948

Papers submitted for coursework in political science and history at Emory University.

Folder 168

Research materials, circa 1950s

Folder originally labeled "Research materials relating to writings, and other materials," by creator.

Notes, printed materials, clippings, and bibliographies relating to Mississippi history and the United Nations.

Folder 169

Military projects, 1951-1952

Papers relating to the R.O.T.C. at Mississippi Southern College, and to other projects related to military education.

Folder 170-174

Folder 170

Folder 171

Folder 172

Folder 173

Folder 174

Mississippi Southern College, 1950-1961

Chiefly printed materials, including faculty bulletins and programs for events on campus.

Folder 175-176

Folder 175

Folder 176

Records and memorabilia, circa 1955-1966

Professional correspondence, photographs, and other materials from Porter Lee Fortune's time at Mississippi Southern College; also includes birth certificate; medical records, vaccination reports, and health history.

Folder 177

Clippings, circa 1955-1966

Newspaper clippings relating to Porter Lee Fortune's activities at Mississippi Southern College and in the National Exchange Club.

Folder 178-185

Folder 178

Folder 179

Folder 180

Folder 181

Folder 182

Folder 183

Folder 184

Folder 185

National Exchange Club, 1957-1974 (bulk 1957-1964)

Printed materials, including newsletters for the Mississippi Exchange Club, event programs, and certificates. Also includes correspondence between Porter Lee Fortune and presidents of various state Exchange Clubs regarding speaking engagements and conventions. Materials in 1962 reflect Fortune's . Also included is a photograph of Fortune speaking at an event in Fargo, N.D. (1962), when he was secretary of the National Exchange Club, and a 1974 copy of The Exchangite in which Porter Lee Fortune and Elizabeth Cummings Fortune appear on the cover.

Folder 186-187

Folder 186

Folder 187

Speeches, 1961-1965

Typed drafts of speeches by Porter Lee Fortune, given at Exchange Club events, Mississippi Southern College, and the University of Southern Mississippi, and other locations.

Folder 188

University of Southern Mississippi, 15 September 1962

Typed draft of Dean's Report to the Faculty.

Folder 189

Financial papers, circa 1961-1966

Folder 190

Financial correspondence, circa 1961-1966

Folder 191

Clippings, circa 1963-1971

Chiefly clippings from Mississippi newspapers regarding Porter Lee Fortune's role as chancellor of the University of Mississippi; also includes scattered clippings relating to Fortune's involvement with the National Exchange Club, and printed materials.

Folder 192

Certificates, circa 1964-1975

Certificates and proclamations presented to Porter Lee Fortune in recognition of his service in the National Exchange Club, from exchange clubs in Los Angeles, Calif.; San Antonio, Tex.; Puerto Rico; and Dayton, Ohio.

Folder 193

Mrs. L. Fortune clippings, 1964-1979

Newspaper clippings, chiefly from publications in Oxford, Miss., regarding social and civic events organized or attended by Elizabeth Cummings Fortune. Includes announcements of daughter Jean Fortune's wedding to Arthur Staff Kaplan (1970).

Image Folder PF-5436/1

Mrs. L. Fortune photographs, circa 1965-1980

Photographs of Elizabeth Cummings Fortune at various events, including National Exchange Club conventions in Hawaii and California.

Folder 194

Mrs. L. Fortune social correspondence and related materials, circa 1965-1980

Invitations and thank you letters addressed to Elizabeth Cummings Fortune. Materials relate to the Oxford Garden Club, University of Mississippi football and R.O.T.C. programs, and charitable programs such as Meals on Wheels, for which Mrs. Fortune volunteered.

Folder 195

Chancellor Inauguration Program, 1968

Printed program for the inauguration ceremony of Porter Lee Fortune as chancellor of the University of Mississippi in 1968.

Folder 196-197

Folder 196

Folder 197

University letters, history, and papers

Contains articles about the University of Mississippi, letters regarding the review of the university by Phi Beta Kappa, letters sent by Porter Lee Fortune to other university presidents and chancellors, Porter Lee Fortune's statements about the Confederate Flag controversy, and photocopies of letters about the University of Mississippi from the 19th and 20th centuries.

Folder 198

"Re-opening of Havana Trade System," 1971

Humorous correspondence between Porter Lee Fortune and Elizabeth Cummings Fortune, as well as John Leslie and other staff at the University of Mississippi, regarding Porter Lee Fortune's resuming smoking cigars after six months of abstaining.

Folder 199

Personal, circa 1973-1984

Informal writings, sketches, clippings, and photographs created or collected by Porter Lee Fortune.

Folder 200

Mrs. L. Fortune: National Exchange Club Convention, 1975

Invitation address lists and other materials relating to a social coffee hour hosted by Elizabeth Cummings Fortune at the National Exchange Club Convention in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Folder 201

Honors Day, 1976

Letters from James D. McComas thanking Porter Lee Fortune for his visit and his address at the University of Mississippi; includes travel arrangements, a draft of his address, a list of luncheon guests, winners of the Taylor medal, and letters to participants.

Folder 202

Chancellor's luncheons and dinners, 1976-1979

Invitations and menus for various events.

Folder 203-204

Folder 203

Folder 204

Willie Morris papers, 1981-1989

Correspondence and clippings regarding recent writings, the premier of "Good Old Boy: A Delta Boyhood," the hiring of Willie Morris as writer-in-residence at the University of Mississippi, and his resignation from that position two years later.

Folder 205-206

Folder 205

Folder 206

William Faulkner papers, 1981-1987

Contains a list of publications, clippings about William Faulkner's home, a guide to Rowan Oak, and information about the University of Mississippi's acquisition of some of William Faulkner's papers and the release of a commemorative stamp and events surrounding it.

Folder 207

Fortune v. Winter rumor, 1980-1984

Contains clippings about William Winter and the Meredith Program of the College Board, a rumored conflict between William Winter and Porter Lee Fortune, and Winter's 1984 senate campaign. Also contains letters from Porter Lee Fortune regarding the rumored conflict and a letter from William Winter declining the offer to become chancellor after Fortune.

Folder 208

Chancellor's response to issues raised by the Black Student Union, April 1983

Contains a statement written by Porter Lee Fortune regarding the Confederate flag controversy printed in the "Monday Report."

Folder 209

Confederate flag controversy statements and other materials

Regarding objections to the use of the Confederate, or Rebel, flag at University events.

Folder 210

Confederate flag controversy correspondence and phone messages

Regarding objections to the use of the Confederate, or Rebel, flag at University events; includes reactions to Porter Lee Fortune's decision to ban use of the Confederate flag by representatives of the University of Mississippi, both favorable and negative, and a threatening letter from the "Royal Order of the Confederates."

Folder 211

Confederate flag controversy clippings

Regarding objections to the use of the Confederate, or Rebel, flag at University events.

Folder 212

"The Impact of the Natchez Trace from 1785-1818"

Three copies, including an undated typed draft, a draft dated 1986, and a bound copy from a 1986 symposium on the Natchez Trace held in Mathiston, Miss.

Folder 213

Mississippi House of Representatives commendation, 1987

Official copy of a resolution passed by the Mississippi House of Representatives commending Porter Lee Fortune and a letter from C.B. Newman regarding the commendation.

Audiocassette C-5436/1

Memorial Service, Dr. Porter Fortune, 16 September 1989

Audiocassette C-5436/2

Willie Morris Tribute, 16 September 1989

Also contains a tribute to Porter Lee Fortune, an interview with Brad Dye, and the Ole Miss Radio Network.

Folder 214

Commencement tribute, 1990

Contains programs and letters regarding a commencement tribute honoring Porter Lee Fortune

Folder 215-216

Folder 215

Folder 216

Ole Miss Alumni Association, Hall of Fame, 1990

Contains letters to Elizabeth Cummings Fortune regarding preparations for invitations for a ceremony inducting Porter Lee Fortune into the University of Mississippi's Hall of Fame; also contains programs from the ceremony, a schedule, and clippings.

Folder 217-218

Folder 217

Folder 218

Senate of Faculty speech

Contains letters about funding and committee meetings, the University of Mississippi's admissions policy, information about budget planning hearings, reports on enrollment projections, and information about the establishment of the Sumners Foundation.

Videotape VT-5436/1

Hall of Fame, 1990

Folder 219-220

Folder 219

Folder 220

Invitations mailing list

Lists of widows, retired faculty, ministers, organizations, university employees, elected officials, and members of the board of trustees.

Folder 221-223

Folder 221

Folder 222

Folder 223

"George M. Troup: State Rights Advocate"

Typed loose pages, probably from Porter Lee Fortune's Ph.D. dissertation at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill.

Folder 224

"The Lincoln Myth"

Typed draft of an essay about Abraham Lincoln. Cover page is blank except for a handwritten note, "You could read this"; author is not identified.

Folder 225

Other writings

Writings and essays by others; includes handwritten notes possibly by Porter Lee Fortune

Folder 226-227

Folder 226

Folder 227

Miscellaneous personal papers

Genealogical notes, clippings, awards and certificates, poems, and drafts of speeches.

Folder 228

Poems and songs

Handwritten and typed poems and song lyrics by Porter Lee Fortune and by unidentified authors. Includes a humorous poem titled "President General Portly Goodfortune," and poems about a National Exchange Club Convention in Florida and Ole Miss football.

Folder 229

Rules

Photocopies of rules for women's conduct at the University of Mississippi, primarily from the 1920s to 1940s.

Folder 230-232

Folder 230

Folder 231

Folder 232

Printed materials

Reports on Mississippi River flood control efforts, inauguration pamphlets, articles about Porter Lee Fortune, handbooks, and a 1941 University of North Carolina commencement program.

Folder 233

ID cards

Personal identification cards, including Porter Lee Fortune's North Carolina driver's license (1948), Midshipman's School card, Mississippi Southern College Dean ID cards (1959-1961), and Vernon Fortune's Recruit ID card for the U.S. Naval Reserve in Anniston, Ala., among others.

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expand/collapse Expand/collapse Series 4. Photographs, circa 1930-1989.

About 400 items.

Arrangement: Chronological.

Photographs, both color and black-and-white, including posed and candid snapshots and portraits of Porter Lee Fortune attending events in various professional roles. Events include campus events at Mississippi Southern College; Exchange Club conventions, dinners and award presentations around the country; and award presentations, receptions, building dedications, and football games at the University of Mississippi. Many photographs include annotations on the verso, identifying names and locations. There are also a school portrait of Vernon L. Fortune and snapshots from Porter Lee Fortune's service in the Navy in the 1940s, featuring scenes on the U.S.S. APc-2 and on the Solomon Islands. Elizabeth Cummings Fortune chiefly appears in family photographs from the 1940s, and accompanying her husband at events primarily after 1968.

Original folder titles have been retained.

Image Folder PF-5436/2

Vernon L. Fortune, circa 1930

Black-and-white school portrait of Vernon L. Fortune as a young boy, circa 1930.

Image Folder PF-5436/3

Photographs from Navy, circa 1942-1943

Black-and-white snapshots depicting friends and other sailors on ship (some photographs label ship as APc-2) and on land and the landscape and native people of the Solomon Islands. Also includes snapshots and portraits of Elizabeth ("Lib") Cummings Fortune and others in America. Many photographs are annotated on verso. In addition, there is one telegram from Lib, dated 1 January 1943, and printed illustrations of "8 Views of Innisfail."

Image Folder PF-5436/4

Circa 1940s

Black-and-white snapshots and negatives of Porter Lee Fortune in Navy uniform, on campus at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, and on the U.S.S. APc-2.

Image Folder PF-5436/5

1950s

Posed pictures at Mississippi Southern College, and snapshots of houses and buildings in Miami, Fla.

Image Folder PF-5436/6

1952

Posed picture of Porter Lee Fortune shaking hands with a Japanese student at Mississippi Southern College. Photo description on back reads, "Japanese student who was at Nagasaki when the bomb was dropped in 1945."

Image Folder PF-5436/7

Photos at Ft. Sill, 1953

Porter Lee Fortune and others touring R.O.T.C. summer camp at Ft. Sill, Okla.

Image Folder PF-5436/8

Exchange Club, 1954

Black-and-white posed photographs of Porter Lee Fortune and others at Exchange Club events in Meridian, Miss., and Biloxi, Miss.

Image Folder PF-5436/9

Mississippi Southern College, 1954

Black-and-white posed photographs of students and faculty on stage for commencement.

Image Folder PF-5436/10

Mississippi Southern College, 1955

Black-and-white posed photograph of Porter Lee Fortune with students and others at a formal banquet.

Image Folder PF-5436/11

Mississippi Southern College, 1958

Black-and-white photograph of Annette Tisdale, Miss Mississippi 1958, posed with a dog; stamped by the Public Relations Department of Mississippi Southern College.

Image Folder PF-5436/12

Circa 1960s

Snapshots of Porter Lee Fortune at home with family; school portraits of his children; and black-and-white professional portraits of Fortune.

Image Folder PF-5436/13

1960s

Black-and-white portraits of Porter Lee Fortune, and snapshots with Elizabeth Cummings Fortune and others.

Image Folder PF-5436/14

Miscellaneous, 1960s

Snapshots from events for the National Exchange Club, Shriner's Club, and Mississippi Southern College.

Image Folder PF-5436/15

Exchange Club, 1960

Black-and-white snapshots and posed photographs from Exchange Club events in Indiana and Mississippi. Includes a posed group portrait of the International Service Club Leadership Conference, with handwritten description identifying Lyndon B. Johnson and Lady Bird.

Image Folder PF-5436/16

Mississippi Southern College, 1960

Posed photographs of Porter Lee Fortune with students.

Image Folder PF-5436/17

Exchange Club, 1961

Snapshots from Exchange Club events in Mississippi, Ohio, Puerto Rico, and Texas.

Image Folder PF-5436/18

Exchange Club, 1962

Portraits of Porter Lee Fortune, snapshots, and posed group photographs from Exchange Club events in Michigan, New Jersey, Ohio, and Puerto Rico.

Image Folder PF-5436/19

University of Southern Mississippi, 1963

Black-and-white photographs of Porter Lee Fortune speaking at the University of Southern Mississippi commencement.

Image Folder PF-5436/20

Exchange Club, 1963

Photographs of Porter Lee Fortune and others at various Exchange Club events, including Freedom Shrine Presentation ceremonies in Michigan, Massachusetts, and Alabama.

Image Folder PF-5436/21

Trip through Georgia -- Joe Pruitt, host, 1963

Black-and-white snapshots from an Exchange Club dinner in Albany, Ga.

Image Folder PF-5436/22

1964

Photographs of Porter Lee Fortune from various National Exchange Club events in Texas, Michigan, Mississippi, and Utah.

Image Folder PF-5436/23

1965

Black-and-white professional portraits of Porter Lee Fortune, and snapshots from National Exchange Club events.

Image Folder PF-5436/24

1966

Exchange Club events in Arizona, California, Michigan, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, and Washington, D.C.

Image Folder PF-5436/25

Pasadena, Calif., visit to Rose Bowl, 1966

Snapshots of Porter Lee Fortune and others at a National Exchange Club event related the Rose Bowl.

Image Folder PF-5436/26

1967

Snapshots and posed photographs from National Exchange Club events, including a March of Dimes event in New York, N.Y., and with Elizabeth Cummings Fortune at the Rose Bowl football game in California.

Image Folder PF-5436/27

Dr. Jonas Salk, 1967

Negative and photograph of Porter Lee Fortune shaking hands with Dr. Jonas Salk at a National Exchange Club event in Toledo, Ohio.

Image Folder PF-5436/28

Ole Miss, 1967

Black-and-white photographs of Porter Lee Fortune visiting the University of Mississippi, posing outside with R. Baxter Wilson and several other men.

Image Folder PF-5436/29

Ole Miss, 1968

Porter Lee Fortune, Elizabeth Cummings Fortune, and others at an outdoor event.

Image Folder PF-5436/30

Hubert Humphrey's visit to Ole Miss, 1968

Photographs of Vice President Hubert Humphrey with Porter Lee Fortune, Elizabeth Cummings Fortune, and others at the University of Mississippi.

Image Folder PF-5436/31

Ole Miss, 1969

Includes a black-and-white snapshot of Porter Lee Fortune with Alabama Governor Albert Brewer.

Image Folder PF-5436/32

1970s

Includes candid snapshots of Porter Lee Fortune and Elizabeth Cummings Fortune at a National Exchange Club Convention in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Image Folder PF-5436/33

Ole Miss, 1970s

Portraits and snapshots of Porter Lee Fortune and Elizabeth Cummings Fortune hosting events in the chancellor's home; also includes a portrait of Ole Miss football player Archie Manning.

Image Folder PF-5436/34

1970

Events at the University of Mississippi, and Porter Lee Fortune attending the Southern Universities Conference.

Image Folder PF-5436/35

1971

Posed photographs of Porter Lee Fortune and others at football games, and candid snapshots at events relating to the University of Mississippi. Includes a photograph of Fortune receiving a certificate appointing him as Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army for Mississippi, from Lieutenant General Albert O. Connor.

Image Folder PF-5436/36

1972

Color photographs of Porter Lee Fortune and others at a new Exchange Club in Southaven, Miss.

Image Folder PF-5436/37

1973

Posed and candid photographs of Porter Lee Fortune and others at football games, at Dr. Bryant's retirement dinner, and at an autograph party for A History of Mississippi.

Image Folder PF-5436/38

1974

Includes posed snapshots of Porter Lee Fortune at the National Football Foundation and Hall of Fame Banquet at the Waldorf Astoria in New York, N.Y.

Image Folder PF-5436/39

1975

Snapshots of Porter Lee Fortune with Rust College President William A. McMillen in Holly Springs, Miss., and at National Exchange Club events in Puerto Rico, Hawaii, New Mexico, and Florida.

Image Folder PF-5436/40

Dedication of Coulter Hall (Chemistry), 1975

Building dedication at the University of Mississippi.

Image Folder PF-5436/41

1976

Posed photographs of Porter Lee Fortune with Mississippi Governor Bill Waller, and of Fortune at an Ole Miss football game.

Image Folder PF-5436/42

1977

Porter Lee Fortune with students at the chancellor's home, and at the Football Foundation Hall of Fame Banquet in New York, N.Y.

Image Folder PF-5436/43

1978

Includes a photograph of Porter Lee Fortune with Senator Ted Kennedy, 1978 commencement speaker for the University of Mississippi.

Image Folder PF-5436/44

DeRosie Reception, 1978

Snapshots from a reception for Art and Delores DeRosie.

Image Folder PF-5436/45

1979

Photographs of Porter Lee Fortune at events for the University of Mississippi, and visiting Camp Shelby in Hattiesburg, Miss.

Image Folder PF-5436/46

1980s

Includes a black-and-white photograph of Porter Lee Fortune posed with Douglas Edwards, William Winter, and Charlie Holt.

Image Folder PF-5436/47

1980

Includes photograph of Porter Lee Fortune receiving the Civilian Service Award from General Forrest S. McCartney.

Image Folder PF-5436/48

Easter Holiday, Outstanding Civilian Service Award, 1980

Includes photograph of Porter Lee Fortune receiving the Civilian Service Award from General Forrest S. McCartney and additional photographs from the same event.

Image Folder PF-5436/49

1981

Includes a photograph of Porter Lee Fortune with Governor William Winter presenting the Outstanding Teacher of the Year Award to a professor at the University of Mississippi.

Image Folder PF-5436/50

Gerald Ford's visit to Ole Miss, 1981

Photographs of President Gerald Ford with Porter Lee Fortune, Elizabeth Cummings Fortune, Carey Fortune, students, and other guests, in the chancellor's home. Includes a photo of President Ford shaking hands with Ole Miss mascot Colonel Rebel.

Image Folder PF-5436/51

1982

Photographs from University of Mississippi events and campus activities. Also includes a candid black-and-white photograph of Porter Lee Fortune and Elizabeth Cummings Fortune on the Oxford Square, taken by William R. Ferris.

Image Folder PF-5436/52

1983

Photograph of Porter Lee Fortune and Elizabeth Cummings Fortune at a dinner at the Governor's Mansion in Jackson, Miss.

Image Folder PF-5436/53

1985

Porter Lee Fortune posing with Native American instruments, possibly from the Joe Berryman collection, and at a meeting of the Delta Council in Cleveland, Miss.

Image Folder PF-5436/54

Exchange Club, 1985

National Exchange Club convention in Philadelphia, Penn.

Image Folder PF-5436/55

Photographs, P.L.F.

Black-and-white portraits of Porter Lee Fortune (circa 1980s); also includes negatives and photographs from an American Cancer Society event and other unidentified snapshots from the 1980s.

Image Folder PF-5436/56

Public Relations photographs

Contains photographs sent from the University of Mississippi Public Relations Department in 1984; images depict buildings and building dedication ceremonies; Hubert Humphrey's 1968 visit to Ole Miss; and Porter Lee Fortune at various award presentations and campus events. Some photos are labeled "Alumni Association" on verso.

Image Folder PF-5436/57

Pictures from Office

Black-and-white and color photographs of Porter Lee Fortune with notable people, including Vice President Hubert Humphrey (25 April 1968), Dr. Jonas Salk, Leontyne Price (21 April 1982), President Gerald Ford (February 1975), and others. The photographs were sent to Elizabeth Cummings Fortune after the death of Porter Lee Fortune, from the Law Offices of Herring, Long, and Joiner in Canton, Miss. (10 August 1990).

Image Folder PF-5436/58

Golden Deeds Award presentation, 1989

Black-and-white posed photograph of Porter Lee Fortune presenting the 1989 Golden Deeds Award to Willie B. Tankersley at the Exchange Club of Oxford, Miss.

Image Folder PF-5436/59

Photographs from Ole Miss

Black-and-white snapshots of celebrations of Porter Lee Fortune's birthday and the tenth anniversary of his inauguration as chancellor, with staff in the chancellor's office.

Image Folder PF-5436/60

Scrapbook, 1936-1937

Handmade scrapbook for the Old Fort High School class of 1937. Includes individual and group photographs of the class, a handwritten draft of Porter Lee Fortune's valedictory speech, classmate and teacher autographs, a list of class superlatives, clippings about high school events, and paragraph long descriptions for many individual classmates. There is also an invitation to the 1988 class reunion, at which Porter Lee Fortune was the speaker.

Photograph Album PA-5436/1

Photograph album, circa 1920s-1950s

Includes both clippings and photographs. Clippings are primarily about World War II, wedding announcements, and about members of the Fortune family. Many of the clippings are loose in the album. Photographs are primarily of Fortune family members and friends from the 1920s to the 1950s, some of whom are identified. Several photographs were taken at Emory University in Atlanta, Ga.

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