The Paul C. Taff Papers consists of clippings, Extension photographs, booklets, pamphlets, correspondence, and papers documenting Taff's life and work. Many of the records date from 1905-1982 and relate to the development of the 4-H movement, the Iowa State Extension Service, and the National Catholic Rural Life Conference.



A scrapbook compiled by Taff contains family history and autobiographical information. Additional biographical material is in the collection as well as individual artifacts, including a ribbon from the Panora, Iowa Corn Exhibition, 1905, and Iowa State Fair Judge Pin and Ribbons from 1925, 1963-70.



Materials related to the 4-H movement are national and local in coverage. Extensive material related to the history and growth of early boys' and girls' club meetings in Iowa are contained in these files. Secondary research conducted by Taff and others related to the beginnings of 4-H is documented. The research includes information on Iowans Oscar Herman Benson, Jessie Field Shambaugh, Cap Miller and other club pioneers, including W. B. Otwell of Illinois and A. B. Graham of Ohio. The collection includes correspondence with Bill Otwell, W. B. Otwell's grandson, and material related to Illinois' Boy's Club beginnings. Records for the Jasper County 4-H group, "Sunbonnet Sue's" (1963-1978), are present as well. There are also manuals and organizational materials related to 4-H clubs. Photographs contain 4-H subject matter covering the period, 1905-1965.



Extension information consists of bulletins and pamphlets related to field days around the state of Iowa. Of special note are the materials documenting Taff's work on Harvest Home Picnics, the Youth Committee (1940-1950), and the "Pig Crop Special Education Train." This train traveled the state of Iowa in the fall of 1929 on the North Western and the Burlington lines promoting better hog farming. The Harvest Home Picnic materials include posters promoting the events. The Youth Committee material contains material on the International Farm Youth Exchange. Photographs related to Extension work covers the period 1905-1965.