Collections

The Alex and Carol Stepick Collection consists of materials depicting the plight of the Cuban and Haitian refugees in the 1980s in Miami, Florida. The documents detail the treatment of refugees once on American soil and the condition in the countries they were escaping from; highlighting the contrasting experiences of Cuban and Haitian refugees. The collection demonstrates the work of Dr. Alex Stepick, Florida International University Professor of Anthropology and Sociology, in emphasizing the refugee situation on a local and national level. Materials also detail political lobbying on behalf of the Haitian refugees, and increasing awareness of their situation. The collection contains scholarly research, studies, and publications relating to the Cuban and Haitian refugees. The collection includes census-related materials, congressional records, economic reports, letters, newspaper articles, political materials, press releases, professional publications, research notes, surveys, etc.

The collection consists of materials depicting the role of Mary Brickell as one of the "founding mothers" of the city of Miami, Florida. Documents detail her work as a landowner and real estate developer. The materials balance the personal and professional lives of Mary Brickell and her descendants. The collection demonstrates the growth and shaping of Miami, from the founding documents establishing the city of Miami to modern day developments in the Brickell area. The collection also documents the work of local Miami historian Carmen Petsoules and her efforts to revive public awareness of Mary Brickell and have her officially recognized as one of the founders of the city of Miami. The collection includes appraisal reports, architectural plans, bills, estate records, leases, maps, newspaper clippings, personal papers, photographs, property records, research materials, scrapbooks, silverware, tax records, warranty deeds, and wills.