The Frederick G. and Joan Christopherson-Schmidt Robert Frost Collection is now available for use by researchers in McIntyre Library’s Special Collections and Archives. This private collection — acquired by the UW-Eau Claire Foundation from Joan Christopherson-Schmidt of Milwaukee — is believed to be one of the most extensive Robert Frost collections maintained outside of academia.
Frederick Schmidt began collecting Frost’s books as a youth and continued this endeavor throughout his life. Schmidt was introduced to Frost in 1942 and the two men bonded over their shared interests of nature and poetry. They were to remain lifelong friends. The collection includes 44 Frost books, most of which are first- or rare limited editions, including many that have been signed and inscribed by the poet. Also included in the collection are manuscript materials of handwritten poetry, Christmas cards and pamphlets, as well as dozens of books about Frost.
To see the Frost Collection for yourself, please stop by Special Collections and Archives which is located on the 5th floor of McIntyre Library. In addition to the Frost Collection, Special Collections has other rare books, manuscript collections, and university records. Special Collections is open to the public weekdays from 9am-4pm. Please direct any questions about this new acquisition or any other collections to library.archives@uwec.edu or 715-836-2739.
