Archives West Finding Aid

The Hazel Chamberlain Papers consist of several of Chamberlain's outgoing letters, some photographs, and an essay written about the Chamberlain Papers by E. G. Kirkpatrick. This collection offers a brief glimpse into the first years of an American missionary's experiences in central South America.

Chamberlain's letters are appropriately filled with information on evangelical activities--either through the mission's school or visits to nearby villages or hospitals. Chamberlain appears to have been part of a mission that tried to convert Guarani Indians. Her letters discusses the missionaries' successes (primarily through the counting of converts or students) and some of the challenges they encountered (as when neighbors banished converts from their village). Moreover, this collection gives some indication of the impact Protestant missionary work had on central Paraguay; for example, Chamberlain observed that children in their schools had to pass a government exam--one administered by Catholics who were, according to Chamberlain, "very much opposed to the Gospel." Chamberlain offered observations on her students, local politics, and the 1922 revolution that disrupted her life (despite persistent claims to the contrary).

The novelty of Paraguayan life to Chamberlain is evident in her letters. Initially, she tried to describe everything--including houses, food, and furnishings as well as the poverty of local residents and Guarani Indians. Subsequent letters focus on day-to-day living. Aside from missionary work, Chamberlain described the weather, insects, domestic and wild animals, local markets, and her finances.

The six photographs shelved with this collection contain images of Chamberlain's acquaintances, a group of Guarani school children, and landscape photos. Other photos associated with this collection are stored separately with the Missionary Photographs under call number PH279_03. They include 30 images in the form of 42 prints and negatives from 1922-1925. The images are primarily of the women working at the mission; other images show members of the Hay family and a trip the missionaries took to Brazil.

The Kirkpatrick paper features excerpts from Chamberlain's letters on specific topics (such as "supplies" or "civics"). It includes several photographs.