Ruffin (Goldie Byrd) Collection

George Vaughns (left) standing with an unidentified man in front of a waterfall, circa 1950s
George Vaughns (left) standing with an unidentified man in front of a waterfall, circa 1950s, Goldie Byrd Ruffin collection, African American Museum & Library at Oakland, Oakland Public Library.

Goldie Byrd Ruffin was a long-time resident of Oakland California with connections to African American political organizations and relatives that were active in civil rights and politics, including her uncles, George R. Vaughns and William E. Vaughns.

The Goldie Byrd Ruffin Collection includes photographs, ephemera, and newspaper clippings collected by her about her uncle, George R. Vaughns, and correspondence, photographs, and clippings of his brother, William E. Vaughns. This collection shows an era of political activity of African Americans in Alameda County in the 1950s-60s and highlights the achievements of two prominent African American professionals, and their endeavors to further civil rights legislation and litigation.

Collection number: MS 146
 
Dates: circa 1940s-1980s
 
Bulk Dates: 1956-1958
 
Collector: Ruffin, Goldie Byrd
 
Creator: Vaughns, William E.
 
Collection Size: 1.25 linear feet 1 box + 1 oversized box
 

Guide to the Goldie Byrd Ruffin Collection

Available at the African American Museum & Library at Oakland (AAMLO)

We encourage researchers to contact AAMLO before visiting so that we can be prepared to assist you. Please call 510-637-2000 or email aamlo@oaklandlibrary.org to arrange an appointment or inquire about access.