The Mortimer Rare Book Room has just acquired a remarkable two-page letter of condolence typed and signed by Helen Keller to the widow of William Allan Neilson, the president of Smith College from 1917 to 1939, written just after his death in 1946. Keller here recalls memories of the young Neilson, who had been her literature teacher at Radcliffe. She describes her mentor in strong poetic language: "Dr. Neilson's rich powers of mind and heart, His delicate touch in disclosing the masterpieces of the English language and the cultivated yet direct grace of his vocabulary are memories precious to me beyond expression." Neilson and Keller maintained their friendship throughout the years, as this letter indicates, and they shared a strong commitment to many of the same liberal causes.
The acquisition honors the memory of one of the most important figures in Smith College history and is particularly poignant this year as Neilson Library celebrates its centennial year.
The letter will be on view in the Mortimer Rare Book Room through the year.
