Culbertson, John Bolt

The collection consists of 32 ft. of material, 1921 to 2012, relating to all aspects of Zeigler's life, from his early days in Florence through his legal career and his service in the General Assembly and on various boards and commissions. The collection is particularly valuable in providing insight into the development of Florence’s cultural institutions. Arranged in eight series, the collection includes Calendars, Campaign Files, Legal Files, Legislative Files, Personal Papers, Audiovisual, Clippings, and Speeches.

Campaign Files cover Zeigler’s earliest forays into politics in the 1950s and continue through his unsuccessful 1972 senatorial and 1974 gubernatorial campaigns. Files for the latter two campaigns are extensive, comprising four linear feet and making up the bulk of his campaign records.

Personal Papers is the largest series in the collection. Major topics include Zeigler’s work with Big Brothers and numerous cultural institutions in Florence, his education in Florence public schools and at Harvard Law, his service in the U.S. Navy, his family, his writings, and his involvement with the State Board of Corrections. His family files comprise two linear feet and include significant correspondence with his wife and mother, among other family members. The most recent additions to this collection include 34 letters penned by Zeigler to Anne Lide (his wife) between 1950 and 1959. They consist of various topics such as travel, the Navy, plays, museum work, and their relationship.