This sub-series consists of both original diaries of Wilder Penfield and photocopies of original diaries made by Jefferson Lewis in the course of his research. More precisely, the diaries dating from 1906 to 1914 are originals; those for subsequent years are photocopies of diaries left by Penfield in the vault of the MNI and now part of the Wilder Penfield Archive (P142) held in the Osler Library Archives. These diaries contain an unparalleled personal chronicle of Penfield’s work, travels, encounters, and reflections. The original volumes from his youth provide unique insight into the development of his character and of his ambitions.
This sub-series contains letters collected and kept by Helen Kermott Penfield. The bulk of these letters are from Wilder Penfield. Penfield wrote to Helen almost every second day, sending her detailed accounts of life at Princeton and Oxford, as well as extensive descriptions on his personal outlook and inner life. Helen preserved these letters in meticulous order. This sub-series also contains letters from Helen’s mother and grandmother among others. Finally, this sub-series contains a great number of condolences received following the death of Wilder Penfield.
Letters from WGP dated from 1909 to 1910, detailing life at Princeton and the early years of their relationship; a note written on a piece of cork bark (?); seven postcards.
