Scope and Contents From the Series: In 1911, Newberry Library Trustee Edward E. Ayer presented to the Library his collection of books, manuscripts, maps, and artifacts about the exploration and settlement of the Americas, the American West, American Indians, the Philippines, and the Hawaiian Islands. Ayer also provided a substantial endowment for the Collection's maintenance and growth. From 1911 until 1963, the Ayer Collection functioned as an independent department and the Ayer Custodians Clara A. Smith, (1911-1931); Ruth...