Ephemera Society of America, Inc.

Overview

The Ephemera Society of America, Inc. is a nonprofit organization founded in 1980 with the mission of promoting, studying, and preserving ephemera. Ephemera refers to vintage printed or written items that originally served a specific purpose but were not expected to be retained or preserved. These items provide valuable insights into the past, offering a unique window into historical cultures and everyday life.

History

The society was established at an event called Ephemera USA 1 in Southbury, Connecticut, in May 1980, marking the beginning of World Ephemera Year, a concept developed by The Ephemera Society in England, which had been founded in 1975 by Maurice Rickards and his associates. Calvin P. Otto of Vermont was among the founding members of the US society. The organization gained its 501(c)(3) non-profit status in June 1981.

Activities

The Ephemera Society of America sponsors a range of activities to promote its mission:

• Publications: The society publishes Ephemera News, now titled eNews, which provides updates on events, auctions, and publications related to ephemera. Additionally, it produces The Ephemera Journal, a scholarly publication featuring articles from distinguished institutions and independent scholars.

• Events: The society hosts an annual conference and fair that includes seminars, exhibits, auctions, and members' meetings. It has also organized special symposiums at institutions like Colonial Williamsburg and the Winterthur Museum.

• Collaborations: The society collaborates with other international ephemera organizations, such as those in Canada and Australia, and supports local events and exhibitions.

Impact

The Ephemera Society of America has grown significantly since its inception, with membership levels varying over the years and reaching over 1,000 at times. The organization relies on donations to support many of its activities. It has been involved in numerous projects, including publishing books and sponsoring exhibitions.

Ephemera Collection and Preservation

Ephemera encompasses a wide range of items, including advertising covers, die-cut cards, fabric labels, and historical documents. These items are not only collectibles but also serve as valuable primary sources for researchers and historians. The society's efforts help in preserving these ephemeral materials and promoting their study.