Scope and Content

The Alexander Martin Family Papers, 1927-1990 and undated, consist of awards, biographies, certificates, correspondence, diplomas, a funeral book, histories, newspaper clippings, pamphlets, programs, and publications. A significant portion of the collection consists of photocopies.

This collection will be useful to researchers studying the history of the African American community in Cleveland, Ohio, in the twentieth century, particularly the activities of the Martin family in the fields of law, education, and the Baha'i faith. Those studying the history of Mt. Zion Congregational Church will find this collection useful. The collection contains biographical and historical writings on the history of the Baha'i faith in Cleveland, Ohio; North Carolina; and Arkansas. The collection also documents the Baha'i activities of the Martin family, particularly the leadership roles in the faith assumed by Lydia Martin and Sarah Martin Pereira. Those studying the political and legal careers of Alexander Martin, Jr.; the educational career of Sarah Martin Pereira; the library career of Lydia Martin; and the government and educational careers of Stuart Martin will find this collection particularly useful. The collection also documents the history of Mary B. Martin Elementary School in Cleveland.