Howard Thurman & Sue Bailey Thurman Collections

Howard Thurman served Boston University as Professor of Spiritual Disciplines and Resources in the School of Theology, and as Dean of Marsh Chapel from 1953 through 1965.

The Howard Thurman papers at Boston University measure 161 linear feet and span the dates of 1945 to 1975. The papers include manuscripts of Thurman’s sermons, books, lectures, speeches, and many other writings; personal and professional correspondence; photographs; audio recordings of Thurman speaking; and various other materials, including items regarding the Church for the Pilgrimage of Friendship, the Fellowship of All Peoples, Howard University, and Boston University.

• View the detailed Finding Aid to Howard Thurman Papers and explore audio recordings through the Boston University Digital Library.

Sue Bailey Thurman established the International Student Hostess Committee to promote a more welcoming community at Boston University. She organized the Museum of Afro American History in 1963 an played a crucial role in the preservation of Black American history in Boston.

The Sue Bailey Thurman papers at Boston University measure 34.5 linear feet and span the years 1920s to 1996. The papers include manuscripts of Bailey Thurman’s writings, correspondence, research material, memorabilia, and other items, and include her work with organizations, including the Boston Black Heritage Trail, the Church of the Fellowship of All Peoples, the National Council of Negro Women, the San Francisco African-American Historical and Cultural Society, and others, primarily related to Black American history and culture.

• View the detailed Finding Aid to Sue Bailey Thurman Papers.
• The Howard Thurman Center for Common Ground at Boston University spreads Thurman’s belief in the unity of all people and his philosophy of the Search for Common Ground by offering an array of culturally based programs, lectures, discussions, films, events, and resources.