Letters home, November 1916

The second folder in the Natalie Gookin papers consists of letters written during the month of November, 1916 from Natalie Gookin to her parents and aunt, as well as a few from Frederick Gookin to his wife. These letters are arranged chronologically and are from her freshman year at Bryn Mawr College. Most of her letters are accounts of her feelings and encounters with her fellow classmate and idol Helen Harris. “Hel” Harris is mentioned in every letter in some way. In addition, Natalie’s lettesr provide insight into the election between Hughes and Wilson, balancing classes and hockey practice, Bryn Mawr traditions, and life with her friends. Some of these activities are accompanied by sketches and drawings of uniforms, dorm plans, and her lantern. These letters would be of interest to those studying student life, political activism in colleges, women’s colleges, and female relationships.