Andrea Lael Cappaert Papers, 1952-1980

Summary

Creator:

Cappaert, Andrea Lael, 1952-1980

Abstract:

Ann Arbor, Michigan, poet and journal writer. Journals, manuscripts of poetry and short stories, photographs, scrapbooks and other materials documenting her struggles as a polio survivor to cope with her disability and to lead an independent life; papers concern in part her association with the youth culture of the 1960s and 1970s.

Extent:

3 linear feet

Language:

English

Call Number:

8594 Aa 2

Authors:

Finding aid created by Anne Frantilla, 1984

Background

Scope and Content:

The Andrea Cappaert papers date from 1952 to 1980 and measure 3 linear feet. The papers document Andy's involvement in the youth culture of the late 1960s and 1970s, and reflect her struggles as a handicapped woman to be an active participant in the world she lived in.

Biographical / Historical:

Andrea ("Andy") Lael Cappaert was born July 5, 1952 in Moline, Illinois, the daughter of Lael and LeRoy Cappaert. The following year, Andrea and her family moved to Ann Arbor, Michigan. At age two Andy was stricken with polio and for the rest of her life was confined to an iron lung at night and a portable respirator and wheelchair during the day. With the help and encouragement of her family and friends, however, Andy lived a full life. She traveled extensively and became an active participant in, and recorder off the youth culture of the 1960's and 1970's.

Andy attended Ann Arbor public schools and the University of Michigan. She worked at the Ozone House for several years and also at the Women's Book Store and the Center for Independent Living. In 1970, Andy moved out on her own. Andy died at the age of 27 on June 29, 1980.

Acquisition Information:

The collection was donated by Mr. and Mrs. LeRoy A. Cappaert (donor no. 3192 ) in March 1984. Additional materials were received.

Subjects

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Subjects:

Alternative lifestyles.
Poetry.
Poets, American -- Michigan -- Ann Arbor.
Poliomyelitis -- Patients -- Michigan.
Women -- Michigan -- Ann Arbor -- Conduct of life.
Women poets, American -- Michigan -- Ann Arbor.
Women with disabilities -- Michigan -- Ann Arbor.
African Americans.
Celebrations.
Clothing and dress -- 1971-1980.
Handicapped persons.
Hippies.
Motorcycles.
Music ensembles.
Women.

Formats:

Diaries.
Photographs.
Scrapbooks.

Names:

Persuasions (Musical group)
Cappaert family.
Cappaert, Andrea Lael, 1952-1980.

Places:

Michigan -- Social life and customs -- 1961-1970.
Michigan -- Social life and customs -- 1971-1980.
Michigan -- Social life and customs -- 20th century.