Number of Images: 2; Color: Color Size: 8.7w x 12.2h; Type of Image: Document; Medium: Photographic print
Type:
Photographic print
Date:
c. 1930s or 1940s
Category:
Historic Images of the Smithsonian
Notes:
Helena Weiss began her career at the Smithsonian in 1931 as a junior clerk-stenographer in the Office of Correspondence and Documents. In 1935, Weiss moved to the Department of Geology, where she worked as a secretary for Dr. Ray S. Bassler. She became Chief of the Office of Correspondence and Documents in 1948. In 1956 her title was changed to "Registrar," a position she held until her retirement in 1971. Weiss was one of the first women managers at the Smithsonian.
Hand drawn birthday card for Helena Weiss by Edward A. Chapin, Ray S. Bassler, J.F. Gates Clarke, Clyde E. Bauman, and David H. Dunkle
Summary:
The front of the birthday card for Helena Weiss features a sketch. In the background, a woman (presumably Helena Weiss) sits behind a tipping desk stacked high with papers. Three telephones ring around her while papers and books fly off the desk. Depicted as emerging from the chaos of the desk, and getting larger as they lead into the forefront of the page, are specimens such as butterflies, flowers, a bird, a fish, and finally, a whale. The back of the card reads, "but... on February 6 HAPPY BIRTHDAY" and is signed by Edward A. Chapin, Ray S. Bassler, J.F. Gates Clarke, Clyde E. Bauman, and David H. Dunkle.
