3. Obituaries, 1890-1952

These papers document properties owned by the family, especially the historic home at 2 Green Street, Charleston, sold to the College of Charleston in 1971. With materials on the history of the Bell, DeReef, and Purvis families; health of Hiram Bell, Sr. and references to Friendly Union Cemetery. Printed materials and certificates from Morris Brown A.M.E. church, Avery Normal Institute, Shaw School and Hampton College; with various printed materials documenting the Bricklayers, Masons and Plasterer's Union, of Charleston and elsewhere.

The collection also contains awards and certificates of Hiram Bell, Jr. and James Bell including photograph of the latter's 1949 graduation from Hampton. It also includes a 1950 program for the 50th anniversary of Charleston Bricklayers, Masons, and Plasterers, Local Chapter. With diplomas of Louise Purvis from Howard University and those of Emmeline Lucille Mazyck, Avery Normal Institute and Shaw Memorial School.