Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Collection

Abstract

The Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Collection at the George A. Smathers Libraries serves as a significant literary archive, celebrating the legacy of the acclaimed American author known for her vivid depictions of rural life in North Central Florida. This collection not only highlights Rawlings’ most renowned work, The Yearling, which won the Pulitzer Prize in 1939, but also encompasses a range of her literary contributions, including manuscripts, personal correspondence, and photographs. Rawlings' journey from her upbringing in Washington, D.C., through her life on a Florida orange grove, reflects her deep connection to the local culture and environment, influencing her writing and establishing her as a pioneer environmentalist and advocate for civil rights. Despite facing personal and professional challenges, including a lawsuit that led her to cease writing about Florida, Rawlings' impact continues to resonate through the Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Society and the ongoing scholarly interest in her work. The collection, enriched by her friendships with notable literary figures and her correspondence with influential editors, underscores the importance of preserving literary heritage. As the Libraries celebrate their centennial, this collection stands as a testament to Rawlings' enduring influence, inviting new generations of scholars and enthusiasts to explore her remarkable contributions to American literature.