A Common Bond: Letters from Mlle Sérafon

Edited by: Katherine J. Moore, Sarah K. Phelps and Elizabeth M. Ritzenthaler Lawrence University Press 2001

From 1851-1964, Milwaukee-Downer College provided a unique and valuable opportunity for hundreds of American and international women. In 1964, Milwaukee-Downer College merged with Lawrence College, becoming Lawrence University, and offered coeducational opportunities for Downer women in Appleton, Wisconsin.

Amélie Sérafon's career at Milwaukee-Downer lasted through both World Wars, from 1910 to 1945. Mlle Sérafon not only taught the majority of entry level and advanced French courses, but also served as the faculty advisor to the French Club, otherwise known as Le Cercle Français; she founded L'Alliance Française in Milwaukee; she was recognized twice by the French Government for her war efforts; and she traveled internationally nearly every summer.

Bessie J. Woltner was a student of Mlle Sérafon, with whom she corresponded for most of her adult life.

These letters give a glimpse into both the professional and personal lives of these two women who lived and worked in the early 20th century.