Irene and Hugh Currin papers

Collection

Identifier: 2018-018

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

The Irene and Hugh Currin papers houses the personal papers of Hugh and Irene Currin. The collection, which dates from 1942 to 2004, consists of military documentation, photographs, postcards, memoirs and obituaries, diaries, World War II era ephemera from France, newspaper clippings, and letters telling the story of medical professionals in the 46th General Hospital during World War II.

While this collection is named the Irene and Hugh Currin papers, it primarily showcases the war through the eyes of Irene Currin (née Davis) as a nurse in the 46th General Hospital from Portland, Oregon. Her story, told here, spans the years 1942 to 1945 while deployed in both North Africa and France through the close of the European campaign. Photographs alongside a diary and scrapbook detail her military life from enlistment and training, through multiple campaigns, and finally to her return to Portland, Oregon. This collection is an incredible look into the everyday life of a nurse during the war and of interest to anyone looking to learn more about Oregon’s medical history.

Dates

Creation: 1942-2004

Conditions Governing Access

There are no restrictions on access. This 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.

Biographical Note

Irene M. Currin (née Davis) was born in Klamath Falls, OR in 1912. After attending nursing school in Pasco, WA, she went on to work as a nurse in both Portland and San Francisco. During World War II, she served abroad with the 46th General Hospital accompanied by her soon to be husband, Dr. Hugh B. Currin (a graduate of the University of Oregon Medical School), in both North Africa and France before returning home.

Post war, the couple enjoyed skiing, trail riding, and eventually learned to pilot gliders in their 60s. Hugh passed away at the age of 80 in 1988 and Irene at the age of 101 in 2013.

Extent

.4 Linear Feet

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

Irene and Hugh Currin served abroad together as nurse and doctor, respectively, with the 46th General Hospital from Portland during World War II in both North Africa and France. This collection contains military documentation, photographs, postcards, memoirs and obituary, diaries, World War II era ephemera from their tours, newspaper clippings, and letters detailing their story.