Special Collections & University Archives Finding Aid Database

Scope and Contents

16 letters discussing Methodist church operations, Barbara's health, and Peoples Temple. Barbara mentions a conflict Becky had with Peoples Temple and Carolyn and criticizes Jim Jones' leadership. She also discusses Peoples Temples' publicity issues and a phone interview with a reporter. Barbara reports on her visit to Guyana and also mentions phone conversations with Carolyn and Annie.(Residence- Reno)

Scope and Contents

19 letters discussing politics, elections, and John's busy schedule away from home. Barbara describes a visit from Carolyn and Jim, and then expresses concern after Annie visits Ukiah and becomes influenced by Peoples Temple. In sharing her concern, Barbara critiques Peoples Temple. She also relays Annie's future plans and provides updates on the move to Berkeley. (Residence- Berkeley)

Scope and Contents

37 letters that discuss an issue that Barbara had with jury duty when she was dismissed due to her family’s involvement with Peoples Temple. There are letters from John that pertain to a legal case concerning a former minister from Davis, California and a newspaper clipping that corresponded. Included are a newspaper clipping about a book on Peoples Temple and a letter from John. (Residence- Davis)

Scope and Contents Margaret Thaler Singer (1921–2003) was a renowned expert in the subject of mind control. Trained as a clinical psychologist, with a Ph.D. from the University of Denver, she conducted research on troops who returned from the Korean War to determine the psychological stresses they had undergone. Singer became interested in Peoples Temple shortly before the deaths in Jonestown in November 1978. She was asked to work with former members at the Human Freedom Center, an organization established to...