Tompkins, Charles E. and May Bisbee Papers

File

Identifier: MP-093

Staff Only

Dates

Existence: 1902-1965

Language of Materials

The majority of materials within this collection are in English.

Conditions Governing Access

The collection is open for research. Unpublished manuscripts are protected by copyright. Permission to publish, quote, or reproduce must be secured from the repository and copyright holder. Staff may refuse copying of fragile or at-risk materials.

Materials may be accessed by request at the American Baptist Historical Society. For more information on accessing collections or obtaining copies, visit http://abhsarchives.org.

Biographical / Historical

Charles Ernest and May Bisbee Tompkins were appointed to overseas mission service in September 1902. They sailed for China a month later and were stationed in Suifu in the western part of the country. They worked there until retirement in 1945. Charles Tompkins graducated from the University of Michigan and in 1905 he started the American Baptist Mission Suifu Hospital in China. During an average year, they treated 600 in patients and 20,000 out patients. He recieved the Sixth Order of the Golden Grain from the Chincese National Republic for his services. May Tompkins studied at Benton Harbor College in Michigan and later established the first kindergarten in China in 1912. She wrote materials in Chinese and trained workers. After retirement, the Tompkins made their home in Benton Harbor, Michigan.

Extent

5 Linear Feet : scrapbook, bible, framed items, textiles and objects

Additional Description

Immediate Source of Acquisition

Gift of Robert J. Lacker, 2002, and Howard Rees via Stan Hastey, 2018.

Related Materials

See also American Baptist Foreign Mission Society: Missionary Correspondence

File Plan

Correspondence 1922-1925; Photographs; Historical Scrapbook in 3 folders, with original clippings, letters and missionary reports, photographs and memorabilia, primarily laminated pages.

May B. Tompkins’ Bible; Framed items: Dr. Tompkins with gifts, 1916-1920; Embroidered sleeve from Chinese gown

Chinese family; 3 dimensional Textiles: Embroidered napkin rings, purse pockets, 6 covered buttons, 2 pink napkins, doll bib, placemat; Blue silk scarf; Pillow cover (red with “sweet dream”); Silk embroidered wall hanging (brown background/pagoda, dragon, house); Slippers; Gavel to Guild girls at First Baptist Church, Benton Harbor, Michigan; Basket with lid; Flute; 2 Woodcarvings and a Chinese rock; Vase with stand; Jade figurine; 2 Wind chimes; Dishes: 4 matching plates (black and gold edge); 2 bowls, 1 spoon; 2 decorative plates (1 floral; 1 fowl)