A new archival collection in the Raynor Memorial Libraries’ Department of Special Collections and University Archives illuminates the extraordinary life of Edwin A. Shanke, Marquette alumnus and Associated Press journalist. Most of the collection focuses on the period 1937-1942, when Shanke worked in Berlin behind German lines for AP and later endured five months of captivity after Germany declared war on the United States. The extensive collection gives a phenomenal view of a World War II AP reporter’s experience, featuring photos, correspondence and AP wire copy.
A companion digital collection, “Edwin A. Shanke: AP Reporter in Germany, 1937-1942,” features hundreds of digitized photos and documents from his adventures. The digital collection also includes an interactive timeline and photo albums that present his materials in the contexts of both his broader personal experience and the narrative of the war. In addition, a new library exhibit allows one to get acquainted with Shanke and some of the milestones in his career.
The collection located on the third floor of Raynor Library will be on display through October 2017 and is open to the public.
For more information about the archival collection or to schedule a viewing contact Bill Fliss, Marquette archivist.