We are pleased to announce that the William Pahlmann Collection has been officially opened for research. In 2010, the National Historical Publications and Records Commission (NHPRC) awarded Hagley a two-year grant of $112,000 to process the collection. Pahlmann was a renowned interior designer during the twentieth century and his clients included notable corporations, stores, restaurants, hotels, and private homes. The collection is a rich resource for research in the history of design, the business of operating a design firm, and material culture.
The Pahlmann processing project lasted for two years, beginning in October 2010. For the past two years project archivists have processed 1,200 linear feet of correspondence, client files, sketches, financial records, and publicity materials. The collection also includes extensive samples of wall coverings, flooring, and textiles for window treatments, furniture, and carpeting. Archivists worked with researchers to provide limited access to the collection during processing.
The William Pahlmann Collection finding aid is available here.
Hagley is very grateful to the NHPRC for providing financial support to provide access to this important collection. The NHPRC is the grant- making affiliate of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Congress established the NHPRC grants program to promote the preservation and use of America's documentary heritage.
For more information, please contact Ask Hagley.