At this time, the collection is unprocessed, with the exception of the WWII-era letters. These are arranged into series of letters written by Bob Dole and letters written by others. Within these series, letters are arranged chronologically.
Description (Dublin Core)
Series 1: Letters written by Bob Dole
Series 2: Letters written to Bob Dole
Series 3: Letters written between other family and friends
Abstract (Dublin Core)
The Dole Family Papers is a collection of letters, papers, photographs and memorabilia, the bulk of which are related to his schooling (both pre- and-post war), military records, pre-Congressional and early House of Representatives career, and campaign materials from the 1960s.
Included are a set of 336 letters from the 1940s that were both written to and authored by Bob Dole. These letters offer a glimpse into the daily life of soldiers in the United States Army during World War II – Bob served as a second lieutenant and was later promoted to captain. In addition, they cover Bob's student life at the University of Kansas prior to the war and his extended recovery process after he was wounded.
A postwar injured Captain Robert Dole writes home to his parents about a recommended surgery to improve his use of his arm, an upcoming doctor visit, and some general details about his life at that time.