Carolyn Jones Collection

Blair-Caldwell
African American Research Library
Denver Public Library
2001

Autobiographical Information | Scope and Content | Series | Container Listing

The following traits describe Dr. Carolyn Jones: Friendly, outgoing, smiles constantly, hardworking, and possesses much empathy for others. I was born and reared in Savannah, Georgia. Though I came from a two-parent home, my mother was the greatest influence in my life. My sister and I share [our] daily experiences [on a] weekly [basis], although we live many miles apart. I try not to give any thought as to what life would be like without her. I'm sure she shares the same sentiments.

My mother, Evelyn Jones, worked as a domestic and was a shining example of "When there's a will, there's a way." She raised a family and often had to discontinue college to make ends meet, but she never gave up her dream of becoming a teacher. She passed her determination and value of education on to me.

Elementary and middle public school years for me were fun. I attended boarding school throughout middle and high school. The years at Boggs Academy in Keysville, Georgia provided opportunities to develop understanding and appreciation of similarities and differences between people. This experience also fostered independence and the ability to get along with others.

Secondly, my college years were spent at Savannah State University majoring in elementary education. Third, I pursued a Master’s of Education, specializing in curriculum instruction and finally earned a Doctorate of Education in curriculum and instruction from the University of Sarasota.

Although my roots were in education and having taught for 34 years, I joined my then spouse, John Mitchell, in the discovery of the need for a magazine in the Denver community. Odyssey West Magazine focused on the accomplishments and contributions of Afro-Americans in the urban west. As one of the founders of Odyssey West and the owner of New Odyssey Magazine, I contributed my zest for teaching and related self-discovery to the magazine and provided opportunities for young writers and photographers to launch literary careers and internship opportunities for journalism students.

My employment years consisted of teaching in the Overseas Dependent Schools, Aurora Public Schools, Department of Commerce, Los Angeles Unified Schools, and Denver Public Schools.

The reality that a world existed beyond my humble beginning came into full fruition while living and teaching in Europe.

Some describe me like the month of March, entering like a lion and leaving like a lamb. I prefer to be known as a strong, courageous woman who has the warmth and peacefulness of a dove.

- Carolyn Jones

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Scope and Content

The bulk of the Carolyn Jones Collection (1978-1994) relates to Odyssey West Magazine. This material includes photographic files, award certificates and plaques, and publications of Odyssey West. The photograph files consist of many figures throughout the African American community, both at the national and local level. In addition there exists information (publications, art, and covers) that pertains to Odyssey, Afro-Denver, Afro Colorado, and Colorado Lifestyle - - publications for which Jones played a role.

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Series

Series I: Photograph Files

The photograph files are organized alphabetically. They document the African American community. Jones used these photographs for her magazine articles.

Series II: Publications

The publications are arranged alphabetically and then chronologically. The magazine titles include: Odyssey West, Odyssey, Colorado Lifestyle, Afro Colorado, and Afro-Denver.

Series III: Odyssey West Covers

The Carolyn Jones Collection houses a run of covers from Odyssey West. They are arranged chronologically.

Series IV: Papers

The papers series houses miscellaneous items that are arranged alphabetically. Highlights include correspondence from Pat Schroeder, an Executive Order, and numerous articles concerning Odyssey West.

Series V: Memorabilia

The collection contains several certificates and plaques. They are arranged alphabetically and consist of a membership certificate, recognition certificate, and a proclamation from the City and County of Denver.

Series VI: Art

The Carolyn Jones Collection contains a small amount of artwork that is arranged alphabetically by artist. The work of two different artists, Raen and Ragland, comprises the art series.

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Container Listing

Series I: Photograph Files

Box 1 - 2

Series II: Publications

Box 2

Series III: Odyssey West Covers

Box 2

Series IV: Papers

Box 2

Series V: Memorabilia

Box 2

Series VI: Art

Box 2

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