Alphonso A. McPheeters papers

Collection — Box: 1-9

Identifier: 0000-0000-0000-0126

Staff Only

Scope and contnent note

The Alphonso A. McPheeters papers consists of his personal papers and research regarding education in Africa. The collection dates span the years from 1932 to 1989. The bulk of the materials relate to his writings, including an unpublished manuscript as well as his research and pamphlet collection regarding education in Nigeria and Ghana. His personal papers also include correspondence, memorabilia from his time in Africa, newspaper clippings, and biographical information. Among his writings is a copy of his dissertation from the University of Cincinnati "The Origin and Development of Clark University and Gammon Theological Seminary". Also included are photographs and printed materials pertaining to his membership in the National Association of Collegiate Deans and Registrars.

Dates

Creation: 1932-1989
Creation: Majority of material found within 1950 - 1964

Creator

McPheeters, Alphonso A. (Person)

Biographical note

Born March 15, 1901 in Lexington, Kentucky to Katie Bell and Joseph McPheeters, Alphonso Alonzo McPheeters graduated with a BS from Wilberforce University in 1922. He attended the University of Cincinnati, obtaining his masters degree in education in 1930 and his Ed.D in 1944 after completing his dissertation, "The Origin and Development of Clark University and Gammon Theological Seminary."

Dr. McPheeters taught at Dunbar High School (Lexington, KY) from 1922 until 1930 when he joined the department of education at Clark College. He served as chairman of the department from 1933 until 1941 when he was elected dean of Clark College. He served in this position until 1962. Dr. McPheeters worked in the department of education until his retirement, due to illness, in 1963. In 1972, Clark College dedicated McPheeters-Dennis Hall to Dr. McPheeters and Dr. Joseph J. Dennis, who served as the chairman of the Clark College mathematics department from 1930 to 1974.

In 1955, Dr. McPheeters took leave from Clark College and spent a year in Ghana, Africa as a special Cultural Affairs Officer with US Information Service (USIS). This work included tours and lectures in secondary schools and colleges across the country. While working with the USIS, he condutced extensive research and acquired a pamphlet collection regarding education in Ghana and Nigerai.Among his writings is an unpublished manuscript titled "African Culture and Education, Ghana-Nigeria."

Alphonso McPheeters married Annie L. Watters McPheeters (1908-1994), a graduate of Clark College in 1940. Annie was one of the first African American professional librarians in the Atlanta Public Library.