Multnomah County Division of Public Health collection

Collection

Identifier: 2015-007

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

This collection covers an overall span of time from 1938 to 1993; however the bulk of materials focus on the 1950s-1970s. The Records series consists of a multitude of program records, correspondence, articles, training materials and news clippings contained in seven document boxes.

The Publications series is contained in a single document box and continues a variety of materials. These include published articles, books, and manuals, as well as ephemera like brochures.

The Artifacts series contains two scrapbooks of newsclippings and some photographs. One album has been deconstructed, while the other is intact.

Dates

Creation: 1938-1993
Creation: Majority of material found within 1950-1980

Creator

Multnomah County (Or.). Division of Public Health (Organization)

Conditions Governing Access

There are no restrictions on access. The collection is open to the public.

Conditions Governing Use

OHSU Historical Collections & Archives (HC&A) is the owner of the original materials and digitized images in our collections, however, the collection may contain materials for which copyright is not held. Patrons are responsible for determining the appropriate use or reuse of materials. Consult with HC&A to determine if we can provide permission for use.

Historical Note

Multnomah County has been serving community health needs since 1854, but public health did not take on a concrete form by city officials until about 1890 with the treatment of illnesses with children, contaminated drinking water and food-borne sickness. Through the 20th century, the Division of Public Health grew in size to tackle issues such as cancer, smallpox, polio and venereal diseases. By 1955, there were more specified programs within the Division aimed towards child/school health, vital statistics and mental health. The Division of Public Health eventually transitioned into sub-programs and clinics with the Health Department of Multnomah County.

This collection is essentially the combination of two collections of records, publications and artifacts donated by long-time public health nurse Elaine G. Mahoney, R.N., M.S. M.P.H., in 2013 and 2015. In addition to many years sevice with the County, she also served as faculty at OHSU in the Center for Research in Occupational & Environmental Toxicology (CROET).

Extent

6 Linear Feet (One 2x12 inch box and one 16x20 box; 2013-025 has been integrated with 7 doc boxes of records.)

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

The Multnomah County Division of Public Health Collection showcases the broad scope of affairs and wide variety of activities with which a modern Public Health department is concerned.