Dallett Hemphill made a profound impression on many people, especially in her field of early American history. First, as a professor at Ursinus College, Dallett taught history, American studies, and gender and women's studies for almost thirty years. She developed a devoted following there among her students and peers. Second, Dallett's work as a scholar enriched and expanded the study of early American history. She was a senior research associate at the McNeil Center and the editor of the journal Early American Studies. Dallett was also author of two highly regarded books, Bowing to Necessities: A History of Manners in America, 1620-1860 (2002) and Siblings: Brothers and Sisters in American History (2011). Finally Dallett was loved and respected for her kindness and collegiality by all who knew her. She was generous with her time, thoughtful and helpful to others, and devoted to her students, her colleagues, and her field.
Dallett Hemphill died July 3, 2015, after a prolonged fight with cancer. To honor Dallett's life and extend her academic legacy, the University of Pennsylvania Press has established the C. Dallett Hemphill Publication Fund. Proceeds from this permanent endowment will support publication by Penn Press of books in the field of early American studies written by first-time authors—the kind of younger scholars for whom Dallett was such an inspiring mentor.
This endowment fund drive has the endorsement of John Hill, the Hemphill family, and the McNeil Center for Early American Studies, as well as the University of Pennsylvania Press. Books to be supported by the Fund will be selected by the editors of the Penn Press book series Early American Studies, subject to approval by the Press and its faculty editorial board. Books will carry, on the title page verso, the inscription "Publication of this volume was aided by the C. Dallett Hemphill Publication Fund."
Donations, which are fully tax-deductible, can be made by credit card here. Donations may also be made by check and mailed to Laura E. Weber, Penn Arts and Sciences, Office of Advancement, 3600 Market Street, Suite 300, Philadelphia PA 19104. Please make checks payable to the "Trustees of the University of Pennsylvania" and note on the memo line "C. Dallett Hemphill Publication Fund."
For further information, contact Daniel K. Richter (drichter@history.upenn.edu or 215-898-9251) or Dan Gordon (dangordon95@gmail.com or 215-789-5711).
