January 29, 1978
Dear Dr. Berg:
I hope you are one of those who appreciate and approve the objectives of historians of science. If so, you will also approve the recent action of David Perkins, shortly before the end of his term as President of the Genetics Society. He appointed a Committee on Historical Materials and charged it with the task of alerting geneticists to the desirability of saving materials of historical interest and arranging for their safe deposition, and with the task of surveying and inventorying such material so that future historians could more readily find what they need. I am writing to you with all of that in mind.
Consultation with historians, archivists and librarians has led to a list, which I enclose, of the kinds of materials that should be saved and deposited.
Your role in the development of genetics has obviously been so outstanding that it is of special importance to do all we can to induce you to make--now provision for the safe preservation of your materials either in the archives or library of your own institution or in a national facility such as the library of the American Philosophical Society.  In case you have any reticence about doing so yourself, I would - with your permission - gladly approach the institution of your choice.
I look forward hopefully to a letter from you saying that you are willing to cooperate and advising me of your preference for a depository.
Sincerely yours,
T. M Sonneborn