The University History Research Files are divided into four main series: Appendix Materials; Chapter Drafts and Working Papers, and Final Book Typescript; Subject Files; and Bibliography, notes, and index card files. These files were used and created by Hilda Carter and John Jenswold while writing a history of the university, The University of Wisconsin--Eau Claire: A History, 1916-1976.

Series 1 of Appendix Files consist of unpublished charts, lists, programs, information on campus building construction and construction of the Normal School, campus organizations, accreditation, faculty, Board of Regents, news releases, and correspondence. Most of these were developed or compiled by Carter and Jenswold. Some materials were also compiled by Laura Sutherland. Includes original documents and photocopies.

Series 2 of Chapter Drafts and Working Papers consist of notes taken by Carter and Jenswold, collected university materials (original documents and photocopies), correspondence with early alumni and others, Putnam Park information, secondary sources, and chapter drafts in various stages of completion. Includes the final typescript of the book, arranged by chapter. Also includes correspondence from promotion and distribution of the book, appendices and permissions, and correspondence about and with John Jenswold.

Series 3 of Subject Files contain original and photocopied materials of newspaper clippings, press releases, primary and secondary printed sources, notes, correspondence, reports, program proposals; academic program, university, and building brochures; and interview notes ranging from 1916-1976. The files are arranged alphabetically. For the 1920s and 1930s there are few subject files; more materials from the early years of the university may be found in Series 1 and 2. A variety of topics are covered that concern student and staff activities at the university, relations with the Eau Claire community, and the university’s place within the University of Wisconsin system. Some topics included are: athletics, curriculum development, World War II and the 301st College Training Detachment, accreditation, construction and dedication of campus buildings, campus art, faculty, alumni, Area Advisory Committee, Campus School, Extension courses, financial aid, student personnel services (housing, discipline, etc.), student activities (Homecoming, Winter Carnival, Honor Societies, Commencement, etc.), Golden Jubilee, Lenoard Haas, Native American Student Programs, International and Foreign Language studies, student activism and protest (Vietnam, Kent State, etc.), Students for a Democratic Society, death of Richard E. Hibbard, and the Board of Regents and merger of the University of Wisconsin System.

Series 4 contains three sets of index cards files. The files consist of Carter-Sutherland notes and bibliography; Jenswold’s notes on the 1950s, the Spectator, and the President’s files; Carter’s faculty publications file; and the unabridged index and bibliography.

The bulk of the clippings, press releases, and university created materials were separated from the collection at processing. Photographs and negatives were separated to the University Photographs collection. A complete list of these is found in the separation record found in Series One. There are also a variety of secondary sources.