Television, 1964 January

The papers of William R. Downs consist of correspondence, broadcast scripts, clippings, memorabilia, a scrapbook, films, records, photographs, and network election handbooks, pertaining to his career in journalism and broadcast journalism, and to his school years. They are arranged chronologically.

Of special interest to the researcher are the following: -Downs' early correspondence with his family. These letters dating from 1940-1945 are very revealing of his personality and outlook, and document the early days of his career during World War II. -The correspondence with C.B.S. regarding his departure in 1962. It is this processor's opinion that the farewell letters from C.B.S. executives lacked the warmth that might be expected fro someone of 20 years of outstanding service, suggesting that Downs may have had reasons for quitting, other than a desire to write a book. -The broadcast scripts. Since the scripts span four decades, they document the development of Bill Downs from the eager young reporter to Bill Downs, the veteran newsman. In a wider sense, the Downs papers document the development of broadcast journalism. For the researcher who has not lived through a particular period, seeing what was actually reported is an interesting supplement to history texts. -The films, photographs, and tapes add the dimensions of image and sound to the scripts, creating a fuller impression of Downs as an active reporter. -The badges and identifying insignia worn by war correspondents accredited by the US Army. -The file kept on Downs by the Nazis.