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The Anthracite Museum Complex, administered by the Penn­sylvania Historical and Museum Commission, is seeking material and documents relating to immigrant life and ethnic communities in northeastern Pennsylvania for use in a major three year exhibit to open at the Scranton Anthracite Museum during 1986. Both nineteenth century and modern examples of ethnic art and culture are sought. Articles are needed to illustrate all facets of ethnic community life – from mementos of native countries to sports equipment and religious objects. The work experience of the immigrant will be empha­sized with sections on labor unions, anthracite miners and textile workers. Persons with records, photographs and objects are encouraged to write: Dr. Elizabeth Jewell, Curator, Scran­ton Anthracite Museum, Bald Mountain Rd., R.D. 1, Scranton, PA 18504; or Mary Ann Landis, Curator, Eckley Miners’ Village, Box 236, R.D. 2, Weatherly, PA 18255.

In order to further the knowledge and document the life of Philadelphia’s Black community during the nineteenth century, the Afro-American Historical and Cultural Museum is in search of a photograph or graphic representation of Sarah Mapps Douglass (1806-1882). Douglass was a founding member of the Philadelphia Female Anti-Slavery Society, a writer and one of the outstanding educators of the century. Married to the Rev. William Douglass, rector of St. Thomas African Episcopal Church, in 1855, she taught for twenty-seven years at the Institute for Colored Youth in Philadelphia. Correspondence should be directed to: Afro-American Historical and Cultural Museum, Seventh and Arch Sts., Philadelphia, PA 19106; the telephone number is (215) 574-0380.

Eighteenth century Christmas celebrations in Pennsylvania are currently the subject of research. Particularly sought are references to Christmas found in eighteenth century journals, diaries and letters. The researcher is compiling descriptions of how the season was celebrated, with the emphasis on foods, decorations and religious observances. Please write: Marian Ann J. Matwiejczyk, Graeme Park, 859 County Line Rd., Hor­sham, PA 19044; or telephone (215) 343-0965 Wednesday through Sunday.

The Division of Archives and Manuscripts of the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission is involved in identifying, locating and acquiring records and papers relating to the members and activities of the Pennsylvania General Assembly between 1682 and 1982. Persons able to share such informa­tion are asked to write: Roland M. Baumann, Chief, Division of Archives and Manuscripts, Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, P.O. Box 1026, Harrisburg, PA 17108-1026; or telephone (717) 787-3023.

As part of a special exhibition opening this spring [1985], “Children’s Play: Past, Present and Future,” the Please Touch Museum for Children in Philadelphia is asking interested individuals to share childhood reminiscences or vintage toys and play­things to enhance the museum’s permanent collections and archives. For further information, write: Please Touch Museum for Children, 210 North Twenty-First St., Philadelphia, PA 19103; or telephone Portia Sperr, executive director, at (215) 963-0667.