Max C. Rheinberger, Jr. Papers

Scope of collection

The collection details the role of Max C. Rheinberger, Jr., as a recognized disability rights advocate within the United States, primarily through newspaper clippings, certificates and awards, publications, and correspondence. A majority of the material is centered on the 1960s, highlighting both the major and everyday moments of his life. His involvement with the President's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped is a key component, as well as other organizations he was affiliated with including the United States Junior Chamber of Commerce, the March of Dimes, and the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

A majority of the collection is focused on Rheinberger's achievements for his work in disability rights. Awards he received — including trophies, plaques, certificates, and ribbons—are complimented by photographs and publications describing the ceremonies in which he received them. Letters of nomination for Handicapped American of the Year and invitations to various ceremonies bring different viewpoints into how Rheinberger was regarded by those around him.

Rheinberger was involved in government at both a local and national level, demonstrated by correspondence with officials from Washington, D.C., the state of Minnesota, and other nearby states. Publications and photographs outline his work on Duluth's city council, including the election process and subsequent appointment to the committee. Personal correspondence includes letters and cards from family, friends, and business connections.

A scrapbook represents the rest of the collection in a more condensed form and shows what the Rheinbergers felt best represented Max's life. Focused between 1952 and 1962, it contains newspaper clippings, photographs, cards, congratulations, correspondence, and various personal objects.

Inventory