This collection would be helpful to researchers interested in information on the history on African Americans in Alabama and in the South; the African American family in Alabama and the South; the history of the Negro Women's Clubs, and Black business owners of the 20s, 30s, etc.

The Gordon-Jackson-McLester Family Papers tells the story about family members who lived in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Their stories are told mostly through photographs, most of which were taken in the 1800s, and a few in the 1900s. Most of the photographs show siblings from the same name family, (either the Gordons, the Jacksons, the McLesters) or mixed siblings from these three families.

The collection documents the activities of members in the Gordon-Jackson-McLester families. It includes portraits and photographs taken during the 1800's to the 1900's, ( the latest taken in 1980). The photographs and portraits include family members of the Gordon-Jackson-McLester families; in-laws of family members; and family members who were former slaves. Other photographs contain the Great-Great-Grand relatives of the Gordon-Jackson-McLester family.

Many of the photographs show beautiful country scenes in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Also included in the collection are newspaper clippings from the Birmingham News, (March 18, 1952); advertisements; marriage certificates; birth listings; funeral notices and general correspondence among members of the Gordon-Jackson-McLester families.

While viewing the photographs and reading the names of the individuals on them, even those photographs of family members who were former slaves, one cannot ignore the fact that these people were the offsprings of inter-married couples. They take great pride in the relationship they have with one another. They also cherish the history of knowing that some of their family members were former slaves.