ANNOTATED INDEX OF SELECTED DOCUMENTS AND
CORRESPONDENCE FROM THE COLLECTION OF JAMES V. NEEL'S
PAPERS IN THE ARCHIVE OF THE AMERICAN PHILOSOPHICAL SOCIETY" Selected and compiled by Terence Turner and John Stevens
Cornell University, Feb 2001
PART I. BASE LIST OF CORRESPONDENCE AND DOCUMENTS
Note: The papers listed in this catalogue were selected by
Stevens and Turner from the much more extensive collection of
Neel papers at the APS Archive in December 2000. The papers
indexed in Part I are listed in the order in which they were
found and noted by Stevens and Turner at the APS Archive, and has
no other thematic principle. Each document is numbered according
to its position in this list. See Part II for a chronologically
ordered list of the same materials. Part III is an annotated
index of entries in Neel's Field Journal. Part IV is a topically
indexed selection of the same documents. All papers retain their
numbers from the list in Part I in the subsequent lists.
1) CORRESPONDENCE [COR]:
COR1: Letter to Neel from Dr. Joseph E. Jackson, Director of
Biological Clinical Research, Dow Chemical Company, dated 4
November 1970 (3 pages). A discussion of "a possible trivalent
live virus vaccine field trial in the Yanomama." He goes over a
number of technical points, mostly focused on questions of
drawing and transporting bloods at the proper times.
COR2: Letter to Neel from Dr. Joseph E. Jackson, dated 23
December 1970, cc to Chagnon (4 pages). Jackson states that he
is sending them a first draft protocol (see DOC2) for the
trivalent live virus vaccine study. He discusses a number of
issues in relation to that, such as observing and recording
reactions. He presents some of Dow's reservations about the
project in the second half of the letter, such as whether the
Yanomama selected would be appropriate subjects who were not
already measles-immune (he mostly seems concerned about ability
to control test conditions).
COR3: Letter to Jackson from Neel, dated 30 December 1970 (1
page). This is Neel¡s tentative rejection of the Dow project.
He gives several reasons why he thinks the team may not be able
to do the work, but in the end it comes down to his own crowded
research schedule.
COR4: Letter to Neel from Dr. J.E. Jackson, dated 6 January 1971
(1 page). This letter basically terminates the proposed project
and gives some reasons for that termination.
COR5: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, date 11 December 1967 (1
page). This is the letter where Neel requests Layrisse to obtain
the Venezuelan government's permission to vaccinate the Yanomami.
As he puts it, "[t]here seems to be a raging measles epidemic
amongst the YanomamΠon the Brazilian side."
COR6: Letter "To Whom It May Concern" from Centerwall, dated 9
January 1968 (1 page). In this letter Centerwall describes a
protocol for immunizing the Yanomami. At the bottom is a
handwritten asking that "[I]f possible, compare the reactions of
the two [makes? Word illegible TT] of vaccine (canine kidney +
egg culture)."
COR7: Letter to Dr. Donald Coohan, Chief, Division of
Communicable Diseases, Michigan Department of Health, from Neel,
dated 11 August 1975 (1 page). In it Neel talks about the use of
vaccines as "the entr‚e. . . to a large group of somewhat
(justifiably) suspicious and reluctant subjects."
COR8: Letter to Dr. S.J. Musser, Director of Research, Philips
Roxane Inc., from Neel, dated 26 June 1970 (1 page). In it Neel
points out an acknowledgment from an article.
COR9: Letter to Dr. R. M. Hodges, Director, Ann Arbor Research,
Parke Davis and Company Research Laboratories, from Neel, dated
26 June 1970 (1 page). In it Neel points out an acknowledgment
from an article.
COR10: Letter to Dr. Kenneth J. Wilcox, Jr., Associate Director
for Laboratory Services, Michigan Department of Public Health.,
from Neel, dated 26 June 1970 (1 page). In this letter Neel
thanks Wilcox¡s office for some gamma-globulin. "Enclosed please
find a small piece of evidence, as to how the gamma-globulin was
put to work."
COR 11: Letter to Dr. Kenneth J. Wilcox, Jr., Associate Director
for Laboratory Services, Michigan Department of Public Health.,
from Neel, dated 26 April 1968 (1 page). In it Neel acknowledges
safe receipt of the immune serum globulinΠand states that
"[q]uite aside from the usual humanitarian considerations,
serious decimation of the group would mean the loss of a
tremendous resource for studies of human biology."
COR12: Letter to Neel from Dr. S.J. Musser, dated 19 April 1968
(1 page). In it Musser states he has shipped the 2K doses of
vaccine to Neel¡s home in Ann Arbor, and requests an
acknowledgment and a statement on its use, since it is
"technically saleable product." He does not specify what type of
vaccine it is.
COR13: Letter to Dr. S.J. Musser from Neel, dated 26 April 1968
(1 page). In it Neel acknowledges receipt of 2000 doses of
vaccine, explains its usage (in language very similar to COR11)
and states that the vaccine is on its way to Venezuela.
(QUESTION for later examination: why were only 1000 doses sent
instead of the whole 2000?)
COR14: Letter to Dr. Charles Patton from Neel, dated 5 July 1968
(1 page). One particular remark stands out: he stated that
"[t]he mortality in Brazil is lower than the mortality in
Venezuela."
COR15: Letter to Dr. Francis L. Black from Centerwall, dated 10
January 1968 (1 page). In it he talks about the flyers that came
with the vaccine and globulin and how they will adjust dosages,
and also who they will not vaccinate. He also references the
"half village" immunization.
COR16: Letter to Roche from Neel, dated 4 April 1968 (1 page).
In it he mentions talking about the measles at a PAHO meeting,
and also asks if Roche would "drop me a few lines characterizing
your clinical impression of the young Brazilian whom you saw with
measles."
COR17: Letter to Neel from Will and Mary Roundy, dated 7 May 1968
(1 page). In this short letter the Roundys tell Neel that they
noted the following mortality from the measles epidemics:
1) at Shanamana, 3 adults and 10 children died, including an
infant given globulin.
2) they state that measles are running rampant at Casharawa teri
and Yabitawa teri. 18 have died and the rest are very sick.Œ
3) They state that another group acquired measles (Shibariwa;
teri?) and 38 who came out all got well, but some who stayed at
home died (no figure).
COR18: Letter to Layrisse from Chagnon, dated 18 September 1967
(2 pages) It seems to be a wrap-up letter of some sort.
COR19: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 29 September 1967 (1
page). In it Neel discusses the need for a statement from IVIC
for visas, and discusses who will be coming on the expedition.
COR20: Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated 12 December 1967 (2
pages, plus a short 1 page version of the IPB submission). Here
Layrisse discusses several issues, including a tentative draft
of the joining studies between your Department and IVIC.ΠThis
draft is listed in this Index as DOC8.
COR21: Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated 19 December 1967 (1
page). In it Layrisse briefly discusses the IBP draft (DOC8) and
talks about genetic studies.
COR22: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 21 December 1967 (1
page). Neel discusses rewriting the IBP prospectus and discusses
vaccinations given that "there is a bad measles outbreak on the
Brazilian side."
COR23: Letter to Dr. Helen L. Casey, Chief, Viral Immunoserology
Unit, National Communicable Disease Center, from Neel dated 22
July 1968 (2 pages). Neel discusses a number of issues centered
on the article he writing; one thing he mentions in particular is
the need to "collect more data from the field on mortality."
COR24: Letter to Dr. Helen L. Casey from Neel, dated 15 April
1968 (1 page). Neel discusses the expedition¡s fruits, and in
particular focuses on the research opportunities around the
measles epidemic, particularly at Ocamo where an earlier
expedition had found measles antibodies.
COR25: Letter to Neel from Casey, dated 8 January 1968 (1 page).
Casey discusses a test she ran for measles antibodies (the
results are listed in this Index as DOC11).
COR26: Letter to Casey from Neel, dated 30 August 1967 (1 page).
Neel discusses the possibilities getting the disease pictureΠof
the Yanomami, and talks about trying to set up a date to come to
the CDC and discuss a study. (QUESTION: Is this the "conference"
that Lindee talks about which she says was to learn about
immunization with Edmonston B?).
COR27: Letter to Dr. Libero Ajello, Chief of Mycology and
Parasitology Section, CDC, from Neel dated 6 March 1967 (2
pages). Neel talks about specimens collected in the 1967
expedition and again discusses his desire to "reconstruct a pre-
contact disease picture in the American Indian." He also
mentions collaborating with IVIC.
COR28: Letter to Dr. Joseph H. Schubert, Bacterial Serology Unit,
NCDC, from Neel, dated 30 August 1967 (1 page). More discussion
of coming to the CDC to talk about disease studies and again
mentions wanting to look at the impact of pre- and post- contact
disease on the Indians, especially morbidity-mortality rates.
COR 29: Letter to Dr. Robert A. Hingson, Department of
Anesthesiology, Western Reserve University, from Neel, dated 15
September 1967 (1 page). Neel requests help for immunizing
against measles, smallpox, pertussis and tuberculosis. The
article is indexed here as DOC12.
COR30: Letter to Neel from Dr. Tulio Arends, dated 8 June 1967 (1
page). Arends discusses a number of tests he is conducting for
Neel, and at one point mentions "'operation melt-down' in
relation to the study of abnormal transferrins."
COR31: Letter to Arends from Neel, dated 26 June 1967. Neel
mentions "Operation Melt-down" as a "currentΠactivity" for
Brazilian YanomamaΠand has to do with blood processing.
COR32: Letter to Arends from Neel, dated 26 July 1967.
COR33: Letter to Mr. Rodney Lewis, Cruzada de Evangelizacao
Mundial, from Neel, dated 16 September 1968. In it he again
mentions wanting to understand the disease picture among the
Yanomama,Πwith the objective of advising on improving their
health. "[T]his policy paid off handsomely in connection with
the measles epidemic," he says.
COR34: Letter to Reverend Macon C. Hare, New Tribes Mission, from
Neel, dated 20 September 1966. In it Neel discusses the
possibility of working in Brazil.
COR35: Letter to Neel from W. Neill Hawkins, CEM, dated 28
January 1967 (1 page). In it Hawkins asks for advice on recent
outbreaks of what he thinks is malaria.
COR36: Letter to Neel from Dan Shaylor, dated 10 June 1966 (1
page). Updates Neel on the movement of several groups of
Indians.
COR37: Letter to Mr. Robert Shaylor from Neel, dated 21 November
1967 (2 pages). Neel discusses the expedition's plans and at the
end of the letter discusses trying to immunize Indians during the
expedition.
COR38: Handwritten letter to Neel from Dan Shaylor, dated 11
December 1967 (1 page). Shaylor discusses his plans regarding
the 1968 expedition, and mentins in a P.S. that "[t]here are
reports of measles coming from Brazil down the Orinoco."
COR39: Letter to Neel from Robert Shaylor, dated November 28,
1967. He talks about the coming of measles above Mavaca.
COR40: Letter to Dan Shaylor, apparently from Chagnon, but
unsigned (his name is in brackets at the top of the first page,
handwritten), dated 20 December 1967 (2 pages). He discusses a
number of aspects of the expedition, including plans to inoculate
Indians from measles. He states that they "are confident that it
will work without producing undesirable side effects."
COR41: Letter to Bob Shaylor from Neel, dated 22 April 1968 (2
pages). He discusses further measles problems and asks for data
on temperature response. He also states that the epidemic "would
undoubtedly been worse without the vaccine we were able to get
in." and asks for more information on mortality.
COR42: Letter to Neel from the Paul Dye family, dated 13 March
1968, handwritten (2 pages). The letter discusses a new measles
outbreak at "Mono teri." They state that "many have died since
you¡ve gone, in Sahanmana also."
COR43: Letter to Bob Shaylor from Neel, dated 10 June 1968 (1
page). He mentions the vaccine exchange that took place, and
again notes that he feels the expedition's work lessened the
impact of the epidemic.
COR44: Letter to Kathy Earle, New Tribes Mission, from Chagnon,
dated 24 September 1968 (1 page). Discusses planning for the
1969 expedition.
COR45: Letter to Neel from Bob Shaylor, dated 20 May 1968 (2
pages). States that about 4000 doses of vaccine have been
received and that "4 teams are out vaccinating."
COR46: Letter to Neel from Dr. Charles Patton, dated 20 June 1968
(2 long pages). Discusses vaccination efforts in Brazil.
COR47: Letter to Neel from Dr. R.R. Widmann, Director of Clinical
Research, Cyanamid International, dated 19 December 1967. Dr.
Widmann tells Neel that his corporation is donating 1000 doses of
measles vaccine and then gives him instructions on how to store
it and keep it active.
COR48: Letter to Dr. Fernano C. Ottati, Director of Medical
Research and Development, Cyanamid International, from Dr. M.
Martina da Silva, Chief, Office of Research Coordination, PAHO,
dated 19 December 1967. The letter is a request for 1000 doses
of measles vaccine for Neel¡s expedition.
COR49: Letter to Neel from Dr. Kenneth R. Wilcox. Jr., Associate
Director for Laboratory Services, Michigan Department of Public
Health, dated 19 April 1968 (1 page). It attempts to explain the
contraindication warning on an unnamed batch of measles vaccine.
COR50: Letter to Roche from Neel, dated 22 April 1968 (1 page).
Neel tells Roche that more vaccine and globulin are on their way.
COR51: Letter to Neel from Chagnon, handwritten and dated 11
March 1968 (1 page). Chagnon assures Neel that more bloods are
coming and talks a bit about filming The Feast.
COR52: Letter to Dr. da Silva from Neel, dated 27 December 1967
(1 page). Requests PAHO papers for the expedition¡s equipment.
COR53: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 30 August 1967 (3
pages). One of Neel's first articulations of the expedition
plan.
COR54: Letter to Dan Shaylor from Neel, dated 19 September 1967
(2 pages). More discussion of his research plan.
COR55: Letter to Neel from Dan Shaylor, handwritten and dated 13
October 1967 (3 pages). Response to Neel's 19 September letter
(COR54). Discusses a number of recent developments in the field
(such as the death of the MAF pilots).
COR56: Letter to Bob Shaylor from Chagnon, dated 19 September
1967 (2 pages). Chagnon reiterates the expedition plan Neel sent
earlier and asks them to aid a French anthropology student.
COR57: Letter to Neill Hawkins from Neel, date 10 March 1967 (4
pages). A lengthy discussion of the disease picture of the
Yanomami.
COR58: Letter to the US Embassy in Caracas from John R. Trotter,
US Atomic Energy Commission, dated 16 November 1967 (1 page). A
request for the Embassy to aid in the transport of Neel's
samples.
COR59: Letter to Dr. Joseph E. Jackson from Neel, dated 30
December 1970 (1 page). Neel declines to participate in the
triple vaccine study (this appears to be the same document as
COR3).
COR60: Letter to Neel from Jackson, dated 6 January 1971 (1
page). In it Jackson gives his own views on the project (this
appears to be the same document as COR4).
COR61: Letter to Mr. And Mrs. Will Roundy from Neel, dated 18
September 1968 (1 page). Thanks them for their August letter and
talks about future plans.
COR62: Letter to Neel from the Roundys, dated December 1968. A
handwritten footnote says that measles have "reached the new
location near the Brasilian border."
COR63: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 5 January 1967 (1
page). Discusses antibody testing.
COR64: Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated 10 April 1967 (1
page). Talks about impending French expedition.
COR65: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 24 April 1967(1 page).
Some discussion of research plans.
COR66: Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated 16 February 1967 (2
pages). Apparently a response to an article Neel sent him for
comment.
COR67: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 2 March 1967 (2
pages). Continues discussion of article and talks a little about
next expedition.
COR68: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 13 March 1967 (1
page). Talks about dissuading Levi-Strauss from working with the
Yanomami to prevent overlap.
COR69: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 22 March 1967 (1
page). Discusses Layrisse¡s attendance at a WHO conference.
COR70: Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated 10 March 1967 (1
page). Mostly discussion about the 1967 expedition and some
comments on Brewer.
COR71: Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated 17 March 1967 (1
page). A short note on some bloods samples from Chagnon.
COR72: Letter to Neel from Zulay Layrisse, dated 16 March 1967 (1
page). It is a duplicate of the above letter, with a P.S. that
there was an error in the letter dated the 17th(???).
COR73: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 7 June 1967 (1 page).
Discussion of samples from the 1967 expedition and possible
publication.
COR74: Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated 8 June 1967 (1 page).
Quick note regarding Neel¡s letter to 8 May 1967.
COR75: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 8 May 1967 (1 page).
Discussion of how their "study of primitive people has just been
designated as a part of IBP."
COR76: Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated 21 August 1967 (1
page). Informs Neel that he is now chair of the Venezuelan
Committee for the IPB regarding adaptability of humans.Œ
COR77: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 30 August 1967 (3
pages). Lays out for Layrisse his tentative plans for the 1968
expedition, and also discusses possible importance of IBP for
"the study of the vanishing primitive peoples."
COR78: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 15 November 1967 (3
pages). More discussion of his plans for the 1968 expedition.
COR79: Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated 21 October 1967 (2
pages). Discusses admixture and gene flow.
COR80: Letter to Neel and Dr. Henry Gershowitz from Layrisse,
dated 24 October 1967 (2 pages). Discussion of Gershowitz¡s
report on Rh and DCE results (with enclosed table).
COR81: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 5 December 1967 (1
page). Discusses the possible re-designation of the Yanomami
project by IBP and mentions an AEC grant in relation to their
work.
COR82: Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated 2 February 1968 (1
page). Requests blood samples and expresses gladness that "the
minor problems faced" by the expedition "have been solved
properly."
COR83: Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated "26 de Enero 1968" (1
page). Apologizes for vacutainer problems and comments that
"blood arrived in excellent condition" to his lab.
COR84: Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated "5 de Enero 1968" (1
page). Letter about adjusting the IBP proposal.
COR85: Letter to Layrisse from Neel dated 2 April 1968 (1 page).
Follow-up on expedition, mostly about specimens and Ward leaving
some items behind.
COR86: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 10 October 1967 (1
page). Talking about information of gene frequencies in Indians.
COR87: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 7 September 1967 (1
page). Asking about blood group studies on American Indians.
COR88: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 18 April 1968 (2
pages). Most of the letter is about resolving discrepancies in
blood typing and Rh types. Neel also mentions that he is working
hard on the renewal grant from the AEC.
COR89: Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated 25 April 1968 (2
pages, plus attachment entered as DOC23). This is a discussion
of the blood tests from the 1968 expedition.
COR90: Letter to Layrisse from Ruth Sanger of the Lister
Institute, dated 29 February 1968 (1 page). Going over some
tests her group conducted from one family¡s bloods.
COR91: Letter to Chagnon from Neel, dated 2 March 1967 (1 page).
Discusses some material shipped down to Chagnon. At the end is
the cryptic sentence "No. 1 priority to l'affaire Strauss."
COR92: A handwritten note with Chagnon's name at the top (1
page). It states that a shipment left Miami on 17 February and
gives details for receiving the shipment.
COR93: Letter to Chagnon (c/o Layrisse) from Neel, dated 14 March
1967 (2 pages). Discusses the possibility of studying the
untouchedΠShukuma, and details a plan to dissuade Levi-Strauss
from studying the Yanomami.
COR94: Letter to Neel from Chagnon, dated 1 March 1967. Lots of
small details about Chagnon's work and travails.
COR95: Letter to Clifford Evans, Museum of Natural History, from
Chagnon, dated 19 September 1967 (1 page). Talking about
donating Yanomami material culture items, and some professional
small talk.
COR96: Letter to Layrisse from Neel ,dated 9 October 1967 (1
page). Talks about expedition preparations, and a plan to invite
Yanomami to Santa Maria for their research.
COR97: Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated 28 September 1967 (2
pages). Discussion of assorted details on the expedition
(responded to by Neel in COR96).
COR98: Letter to Neel from Chagnon, dated 11 March 1968 (1 page).
Post-expedition trivia (probably a duplicate of COR51).
COR99: Letter to Chagnon from Neel, dated 13 May 1968 (1 page).
Details Chagnon's food expenses.
COR100: Letter to Neel from Chagnon, dated 18 May 1969 (1 page).
Talks about iodine experiments and a discussion Chagnon had with
Jean-Paul Dumont about taking blood samples from the Panare (1
page).
COR101: Letter to Chagnon from Neel, dated 23 May 1969 (2 pages).
Talks about iodine experiments and further blood studies, and
references the possibility of himself and Chagnon going to Ohio
State.
COR102: Letter to Neel from Chagnon, dated 15 May 1969 (1 page).
A number of small issues discussed, such as chances in Indian
policy and IVIC staff, a story about a mad Frenchman,Πand some
other minutia.
COR103: Letter to Chagnon from Neel, dated 15 May 1970 (2 pages).
A number of small details about ongoing and future work.
COR104: Letter to Chagnon from Neel, dated 1 May 1970 (1 page).
More details on future work and personnel.
COR105: Letter to Neel from Chagnon, dated 22 April AND 24 April
1970 (6 pages). Full of details on recent fieldwork and assorted
issues around research, including relations with other
researchers.
COR106: hand-written letter to Neel from Chagnon, dated 1 May
1970 (2 pages). Discusses research and prospects from next
expedition.
COR107: hand-written letter to Neel ("Jim") from Chagnon, dated
18 May 1970 (1 page). Some suggestions on scheduling the
research plan, with a hand-drawn map at the bottom.
COR108: A handwritten note or letter that is partially obscured,
from Chagnon, date unclear, but in provenance to COR107 and
COR109 (1 page). Talking about Neel coming to Ocamo.
COR109: Letter to Neel and Layrisse from Chagnon, dated 5 June
AND 6 June 1970 (6 pages). Another detail-filled letter on
fieldwork and assorted other issues.
COR110: Letter to Neel from Chagnon, dated 3 January 1971 (1
page). Written in-flight,Πnotes on the schedule and personnel
for a subsequent research expedition.
COR111: A handwritten letter to Neel from Chagnon, dated 6 June
1971 (2 pages). More field details.
COR112: Letter to Chagnon from Neel, dated 30 March 1972 (1
page). Discussion of good and bad blood samples.
COR113: Letter to Chagnon from Neel, dated 21 March 1972 (2
pages). Discussion of research relations and field matters.
COR114: Handwritten letter to Neel from Chagnon, dated 17 March
1972 (1 page). More miscellany about field matters.
COR115: Letter to Neel, Ward, M. Levin, and K Weiss from Chagnon,
dated 23 May 1972 (1 page, apparently, no signature at the end).
An overview and assessment of ongoing research.
COR116: Letter to Neel from Chagnon, dated 17 April 1972 (9
pages). An extensive account of Chagnon's work and frustrations
in the field, lots of interesting details.
COR117: Handwritten letter to Neel from Chagnon, dated 26
February 1972 (2 pages). More on his plans for research.
COR118: Handwritten letter to Neel from Chagnon, dated 7 March
1972 (1 page). This is an air-letter that may be the enclosure
to DOC29, discussing details of current fieldwork.
COR119: Letter to Neel from Mary G. Lauer, Conference
Coordinator, NIH, dated 18 May 1970 (1 page). Confirms Neel¡s
reimbursement for the conference referenced in DOC32. Included
with this letter was DOC33.
COR120: Letter to Casey from Neel, dated 1 August 1968 (1 page).
Informs her that more specimens are coming and that "I think we
have a really interesting little paper going."
COR121: Letter to Neel from Donna T. Warfield, Viral
Immunoserology Unit, National Communicable Disease Center, dated
23 June 1968 (1 page). This is a list of CF and HI test results.
COR122: Letter to Neel from Casey, dated 22 April 1968 (1 page).
Informing Neel that he can send "the ten plasma samples" although
she may not get to do all the tests he wants.
COR123: Letter to Casey from Carol Nevins, dated 10 January 1968
(1 page). She informs Casey that Neel has left and that her
correspondence will be sent to him.
COR124: Letter to Neel from Casey, dated 7 November 1967 (1
page). Discusses the anti-disease measures Nee must take before
coming to the Virology Section of the NCDC. His arrival date is
to be 19 November 1967.
COR125: Letter to Casey from Neel, dated 23 October 1967 (1
page). Asking for permission for a quote from a manuscript.
COR126: Letter to Neel from Casey, dated 27 September 1967 (1
page). Talks about some neutralization tests and Neel¡s plans to
visit the NCDC (see DOC43).
COR127: handwritten note (draft perhaps) to Casey from Neel,
marked sent 12/15/67Π(1 page). Discusses sera shipment
details.
COR128: Letter to Neel from Casey, dated 17 August 1967 (1 page).
Discusses rubella HI results.
COR129: Letter to Neel from Casey, dated 31 May 1967 (1 page).
Discusses antibody titer tests against "several viral antigens."
COR130: Letter to Casey from Neel, dated 7 June 1967 (1 page).
Thanks her for a preliminary report on the Yanomama test results.
COR131: Letter to Neel from Leo Kaufman, Chief, Fungus Immunology
Unit, NCDC, dated 19 October 1967 (1 page). Notes that either 13
or 20 November is good for him and Ajello to meet with Neel.
COR132: Letter to Kaufman from Neel, dated 16 March 1967 (1
page). Mentions sending soil specimens to Ajello.
COR133: Letter to Neel from Kaufman, dated 9 March 1967 (1 page).
Discusses data in a Neel letter of 6 March.
COR134: Letter to Kaufman from Neel ,dated 6 March 1967 ( 1
page). Describes fungi among the Yanomama and other antibody
tests in the future.
COR135: Letter to Kaufman from Alice M. Gundersen, Departmental
Secretary, dated 30 January 1967 ( 1 page). Informs Kaufman that
Neel is in the field, and has soil collecting packages with him.
COR136: Letter to Neel from Kaufman, dated 23 January 1967 (1
page). Discusses some clinical histories that Neel sent him.
COR137: Letter to Kaufman from Neel, dated 21 December 1966 (1
page). Discusses a number of enclosures on various aspects of
field tests.
COR138: Letter to Dr. U. Pentti Kokko, Chief, Laboratory Branch,
Communicable Disease Center, from Neel, dated 28 September 1966
(2 pages). An interesting letter that describes some of the
motivations behind Neel's field methods on "significant disease
pressures" and talks about his 1966 expedition.
COR139: Letter to Neel from Kokko, dated 17 October 1966 (2
pages). Discusses which lab members can help Neel in different
aspects of his work and discusses the work of the Sera Bank.
COR140: Letter to Kokko from Neel, dated 28 October 1966 (2
pages). Discusses the options Kokko gave him and also discusses
operation ¡melt-down¡Œ in more detail.
COR141: Letter to Neel from Kokko, dated 16 November 1966 (1
page). Talks about testing and the possibility of storing
Yanomama sera in the Serum Bank.
COR142: Letter to Neel (Chagnon crossed out), from Merrill Seely,
dated 17 February 1968. Notes data enclosed an thanks him for
his help at Carona.
COR143: Letter to Neel from John P. Fox, Assistant Managing
Editor, AJE, dated 17 November 1969 (2 pages). Discusses the
referees comments of DOC62, agreeing with the first referee but
offering rewriting suggestions. His most trenchant criticism is
that Neel needs to consider "the probable relation of age to the
severity of clinical responses to both wild virus and vaccine
virus infections."
COR144: Letter to Fox from Neel, dated 5 December 1969 (2 pages).
Neel discusses the changes he has made in response to Fox¡s and
the referees' comments.
COR145: Letter to Dr. N. Philip Ashmole, Associate Professor of
Biology, Peabody Museum of Natural History from Neel, dated 15
December 1970 (1 page). Thanks Ashmole for his treatment of the
Science article and gently critiques a point about brain size.
COR146: Letter to Neel from Ashmole, dated 9 December 1970.
Introduces a treatment he wrote of Neel's Science article that he
wishes to publish (see DOC67).
COR147: Letter to Neel from Evert C. Jones, U.S. National Marine
Fisheries Service, dated 10 December, 1970 (2 pages). Discusses
his impression of Neel¡s theory of intelligence in relation to
his own, which believes that high intelligence has negative
survival value for the species.Œ
COR148: Letter to Jones from Neel, dated 18 December 1970 (1
page). Neel replies that "we are thinking along similar lines"
to Jones, and that he would like to administer intelligence tests
to "chiefs and non-chiefs" in tribal groups to see if there are
"significant differences" but that it might not be possible.
COR149: Letter to Neel from Dr. Francis L. Black, dated 13 August
1969 (1 page). Comments on Neel's measles article and discusses
the question of "racial susceptibility to measles," which he
states was an idea of Neel¡s that was misrepresented in a WHO
Chronicle article.
COR150: Letter to Black from Neel, dated 22 August 1969 (1 page)
Neel thanks Black for his comments.
COR151: Letter to Neel from Dr. Alfonso Paredes, Professor of
Research Psychiatry, University of Oklahoma Medical Center, dated
28 April 1970 (1 page). Introduces a research proposal he wants
Neel to examine.
COR152: Letter to Paredes from Neel, dated 11 May 1970 (1 page).
Comments on a draft research project Paredes sent him, noting the
similarities and commenting on his own ideas of "acculturation"
COR153: Letter to Mrs. Josephine K. Doherty, Associate Program
Director for Environmental Biology, National Science Foundation
from Richard Oliver, Staff Officer, National Research Council,
dated 24 July 1970 (1 page). Discusses Paredes¡ research
proposal and its administrative rejection by the IBP because "we
have closed the US/IBP to additional IRPs." He requests that
this not prejudice the project for the NSF.
COR154: Letter to Paredes from Oliver, dated 24 July 1970 (2
pages). Explains the decision to reject Paredes¡ proposal.
COR155: Letter to Neel from Rolf A. Geerdink, Stichting
Academisch Ziekenhuis Utrecht, dated 11 July 1969 (2 pages).
Discusses his own work with the Trio and Wayana Indians on blood
typing and "skinfold thicknesses."
COR156: Letter to Geerdink from Neel, dated 25 July 1969 (1
page). Minor comments on Geerdink's work, especially on
dermatoglyphics, which is "quite similar to our findings in the
Xavante."
COR157: Letter to Neel from Geerdink, dated 26 June 1970 (1
page). Note of thanks and some personal updates.
COR158: Letter to Geerdink from Carol Nevins, dated 8 July 1970
(1 page). Tells Geerdink that Neel will get his letter on his
return from South America.
COR159: Letter to Dr. S. William A. Gunn, WHO, from Neel, dated
27 May 1969 (1 page). Thanks him for information on the Haida.
COR160: Letter to Neel from Gunn, dated 19 May 1969 (1 page).
Discusses his work as doctor and ethnologist.
COR161: Letter to Neel from Dr. Osvalds Mutchinick, Direccion
Nacional de Genetica, Secretaria de Estado de Salud Publica,
dated 15 April 1969 (2 pages). Asks for assistance with
fingerprint study. Encloses a table of that study.
COR162: Letter to Mutchinick from Neel, dated 8 May 1969 (1
page). Informs Mutchinick that he is still analyzing his own
dermatoglyphic information.
COR163 6 April 1969 Richard K. Nelson, Department of
Anthropology, UCSB to Neel from(1 page). Discusses possibility
of genetics studies with Athapaskan group.
COR 164 1 April 1969 Neel to Nelson (2 pages). Discusses
Nelson¡s NAS application and his own desire for more North
American genetic information.
COR165 3 January 1968 "To Whom It May Concern" from Frederick
L. Stone, Ph.D., Director, National Institute of General Medical
Sciences (1 page). Letter of Introduction for Neel and his
expedition.
COR166: Letter to the U.S. Embassy in Caracas from John R.
Totter, Director, Division of Biology and Medicine, AEC, dated 16
November 1967 (1 page). Letter of Introduction asking that the
Embassy helps with air transportation for Neel's samples.
COR 167 1 August 1967 M.R. de Carlo, Assistant Executive
Secretary, US-IBP, National Research Council, to Neel (1 page).
Informs Neel that his proposal has been accepted by the program.
COR168 3 January 1968 to Mauricio M. Bernbaum U.S. Embassy
in Caracas from Stone (1 page). A letter of introduction
emphasizing the importance of Neel's work and requesting
assistance for this expedition.
COR169 25 October 1967 James E. Lesch, Assistant to the
Vice-President for Academic Affairs, to the Venezuelan Consulate
(1 page). Verifies Neel's employment.
COR170 2 November 1967 Letter to Consul General, Venezuelan
Consulate from Neel (1 page, 3 copies). Certifies Ernie
Migliazza's position as Research Assistant.
COR171 8 November 1976 Neel to Dr. Richard "Ryk" Ward, Child
Development and Retardation Center, University of Washington.
Discusses a manuscript Ward sent him and suggests radical
changes.
COR172 11 January 1972 Neel to Ward, Spielman, Migliazza, Li,
Sing, and Heuch (Memorandum, 1 page). Introduces DOC 89 to them.
COR 173 10 March1964 Salzano to Neel "Turner has just spent a
day with us..."
COR 174 11 February 1966 Salzano(?) to Dr. Jerry D.
Niswander, Human Genetics Branch, National Institute of Dental
Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda 14, MD
"There exist now at least two studies showing slight
differences in reproductive performance between individuals with
different cephalic indices (Bielicki, T. And Z. Welon. 1964.
Homo, 15 (1): 22-30; Huizinga, J. And A. Slob. 1965. Koninkl.
Nederl. Akademie van Wettenschappen--Amsterdam, Proceedings, Ser.
C., 68 (4):297-301). I think it would be worth while to check
this in our Xavante series..."
COR 175 2 May 1966 Salzano to Niswander
"Enclosed you will find three tables summarizing the
calculations I have performed concerning the problem cephalic
index: reproductive performance."
Table I: classify by dolicho or mesocephalic in rela to
average no. of liveborn children...
Table 2 & 3: correlation coefficients between cephalic
index values and average no. of liveborn children or the averge no.
of surviving offspring do [not show?] any significant
trend...Since the error of estimates based on such small samples
is very large I doubt if more sophisticated analyses should be
performed."
COR 176 13 May 1966 Neel to Salzano
"This matter of head form and reproductive performance is a
problem. It was on my mind even before you brought the question
up, but I had felt that we needed much more data before an
analysis would be profitable...I would hope that some day we
could combine your data on the Caingangs, our Xavante data, and
the data we hope to get on the Cayapo, and the Yanomama, and then
do an analysis of variance, partitioning by tribe and head form."
COR 177 16 May 1966 Salzano to Maybury-Lewis "Last month
[i.e., April] Terence Turner spent two very profitable days in
Porto Alegre..."
COR 178 15 June 1966 Salzano to Neel. mentions missionary Rev
Neill Hawkins, cp 154, Boa Vista, Roraima. Mission has stations
at Mucajjai, Rio Uricoera, Rio Auaris and Serra Surucucu.
"Bartlett" (another Prot missionary among Brazilian Yanomami)
mentioned in later letter
COR 179 9 January 1968 Willard R. Centerwall to missionaries
in Brazil to accompany 1000 doses of vaccine
"In brief, it should be realized that the Edmonston strain
of vaccine though immunologically effective is known to cause
significantly high fevers and reactions in some persons. This is
perhpas even more likely among measles-free peoples. The
concomitant use of gamma globulin would help modify the reactions
but in the absence of gammaglobulin, measles vaccination is still
considered very much worth the risks providing certain
precautions are taken, i.e.:
(1) avoid vaccinating infants especially under 1 year of age, TB
patients, acutely ill people, and persons who are old and/or
infirm.
(2) vaccinate only half of the able-bodied village ppopulation at
one time so the unvaccinated individuals will be able to care for
the needs of the vaccinated ones.
(3) vaccinate populations which can be observed during the
resting period (8-12 days post vaccination) so that any high
feveers can be treated with aspirin and fluids and any bacterial
comliccations treated with antibiotics or sulfa drugs...
(4) alert the people being vaccinated that they may feel a bit
ill from the vaccination but not as badly as the disease from
which they are being protected.
The vaccination causes what is essentially a mild case of
measles which is not contagious..."
COR 180 18 April 1968 Neel to Salzano "Our field work in
Venezuela went very roughly indeed, thanks to an epidemic of
measles. In the end we made out reasonably well, but it was
probably the most strenuous two months of my entire life. The AEC
grant that supports this work comes up for its three-year renewal
this spring...
COR 181 6 May1968 Marcel Roche to Neel.
"The vaccines finally did arrive on Thursday [April] 25...In
the meantime...the ministry [of health]? Had received a large
batch of vaccines and let us have 800 of them (Sharp and Dohme).
They apparently have conducted studies which have proved to their
satisfacction that one third of the dose was just as effective as
the whole dose and produced less reaction..We will pproceed with
vaccination on that basis.
As for the vaccines sent by you, I believe in view of the
close expiration date, the best solution was to send them to the
Ministry of Health, who agreed to use them promptly so that they
are not wasted."
COR 182 20 June1968 Charles N. Patton, M.D., to Neel
(reporting on disposition of the 1,000 doses of vaccine sent by
Neel. "Only about 500 could be used by our missionaries in this
area. Tootobi and Mucaja¡ had recently suffered measles
epidemics, so didn't need the vaccine. Uaic station
istemporarily closed...That left only Auris and Surucuc£.
In Auris about 150 doses were used...The missionary was left
alone to care for all the reactions, and apparently was too
overewhelmed to record the data as I had requested... She says,
"All had fever, in 50% it was between 39 and 40 degrees C. 90%
had conjunctivitis and cough. Some were confined to their
hammock. 2% had an urticarial type eruption." An unsepcified
number had measles-type eruptions--"in 4 children it covered the
entire body."
In Surucuc£ about 300 doses were applied, but nearly half of
these were vaccine purchased by the mission (Lirurgen [a brand of
Schwarz vaccine--T.T.]). After hearing of the strong reactions in
Auris, they were afraid to vaccinate everybody at once with the
Roxanne (Edmonston B: T.T.] vaccine. Yet they realized that if
they did only part of the people, the rest would observe the
reactions and as a result refuse to accept the vaccine at a later
date. So they decided to vaccinate about half with the "non-
reacting" Lirurgen...
2) DOCUMENTS [DOC]:
DOC1: Field journal of Dr. Neel, pp. 36-134, covering dates 7
January to 8 March 1968. [Query: what happened to first 35
pages?]
DOC2: "Statement of InvestigatorŒ" Draft Protocol Submission for
a Study entitled "An Evaluation of the Safety and Efficacy of
Live, Attenuated Rubeola, Rubella and Mumps Vaccine Administered
in Combination." The date on the Draft document is 12/22/70, and
it is in provenance with COR2 and is also referred to in that
letter. It appears that it was written by Dr. Jackson, but in
COR2 he states that it was discussed with Neel prior to its
drafting. The Statement has a cover sheet and two copies of the
Draft Protocol, each five pages in length, for a total of 11
pages.
DOC3: A handwritten page titled "Conference with Dr. Evehard and
Oliver" apparently dated 3 January 1967 OR 3 June 1967 (difficult
to differentiate) that has notes on bacterial diseases and a
transportation schedule (1 page). Upon more careful examination,
it may be a page of Neel's journal; there is a "33" in the upper
left-hand corner, and the page resembles a journal page.
DOC4: A receipt dated 18 April 1968 from Philips Roxane, Inc.,
that appears in provenance with COR12 (1 page).
DOC5: A Western Union telegram dated 19 April 1968, from Roche to
Neel (1 page). The message reads "DONATION ACCEPTABLE OUR
GOVERNMENT."
DOC6: Handwritten note with stamp that dates it "SENT Apr 15 1968
Human Genetics" (1 page) It is apparently from Neel to Roche
asking for assurance that a vaccine donation is acceptable to the
Venezuelan government.
DOC7: A cable to Roche from Neel dated 23 April 1968 (1 page).
In it Neel states that 1000 doses of vaccine and globulin are
being shipped.
DOC8: document titled "IBP Program" that appears to be a draft
for a cooperative study between Neel's Department and IVIC,
written by Layrisse (1 page). It is in provenance with COR20 and
appears to have been enclosed with that letter.
DOC9: ruled handwritten note titled "CABLE" to Layrisse from
Neel, apparently sent 5 January 1968 (1 page). The note states
the arrival of expedition members and supplies.
DOC10: a small handwritten note that has no date and no
letterhead, and appears to be signed by Layrisse (1 page). It
merely says "[a]gree bring 2000 immunizing doses measles
vaccine."
DOC11: Enclosure from Casey to Neel dated 8 January 1968 (1
page). This is a list of measles HI antibody titers tested that
is referenced in COR25.
DOC12: Undated, unattributed article that is in provenance to
COR29, and describes the work of the Brother's Brother
Foundation.
DOC13: Memo to Dr. R.L. Westerman, from M.T. Kenny, Assay Lab,
Dow Chemical, dated 7 August 1970 (1 page). The memo discusses
proper amounts of serum needed for various disease testings.
DOC14: a handwritten table entitled "Ocamo Follow-up," undated (1
page). There are numbered individuals, dates with numbers
beneath them, and at the bottom a notation: "Mix of previous
measles, g.g. inj., vaccination, mild measles."
DOC15: A photocopy of an envelope and an enclosed maps entitled
"The Encroachment of Measles Upon the Yanomamo Territory of South
America" (2 pages). The envelope has Centerwall's name written
on it and is dated 31 July 1968.
DOC16: A photocopy of several pamphlets on the use of two measles
vaccines and globulin, all issued or revised in 1966 and 1967 (6
pages). These pamphlets discuss the uses and contraindications
for the vaccines, which appear to include certain sorts of gamma
globulin injections (?).
DOC 17: article from Brown Gold, July 1968, 26(3) (1 page). It
mentions the continuing penetration of measles into Guiaca
territory in Venezuela.
DOC18: article from Brown Gold, March 1968, 25(11) (1 page),
entitled Measles Among the IndiansΠby Mrs., Joe Dawson.
Discusses some details of the measles epidemic.
DOC19: A collection of articles (source unknown) by various
missionaries about the Measles Epidemic, possibly dating from
October 1968 (9 pages). One article has a map of the epidemic,
while several other detail what happened in various communities.
DOC20: Article by Centerwall, with discussions, not undated and
source unknown (10 pages). A number of discussions about
diseases among American Indians.
DOC21: Article from Brown Gold, December 1969, no volume number
(3 Pages). Written by Mrs. Ron Bodin, it discusses the discovery
of the YoanaΠIndians.
DOC22: Cable from Neel to Layrisse, dated 1 April 1968 (1 page).
Asking about tracing Asch's equipment.
DOC23: Table on "Absorption TestsŒ" undated but enclosed with
COR89 (1 page).
DOC24: two tables that were enclosed with COR 90 (2 pages).
DOC25: an accounting of some of the 1968 expedition's expenses (1
page).
DOC26: Reimbursement receipt to Neel from funds advanced to
Chagnon (1 page).
DOC27: handwritten note dated 19 December 1968 regarding
arrangements made for cargo by Chagnon.
DOC28: a hand-drawn map titled "Based on conversation with Daniel
de Barandiaran April 21, 1970" (1 page). This is in provenance
with COR 105 and 106, and given that these two documents are a
bit out-of-sorts it is difficult to tell which it relates to at
this time. The map is not detailed but has some intriguing notes
on it, such as "5000 diamond miners" at the head of Rio Parucito.
DOC29: an air-mail envelope addressed to Neel from Chagnon with a
mail date of 14 March (in provenance with COR113).
DOC30: Cryptic hand-written list that is difficult to decipher,
no date (1 page). In provenance with COR114.
DOC31: Two drafts of a paper by Neel entitled "Ethical Issues
Resulting from Prenatal Diagnosis", undated (50 pages, some
typed, some short notes). Discussion of his ethical stance on
research and "eugenic" issues.
DOC32: List entitled "Participants to Conference on Ethical
Problems in Human genetics: Early Diagnosis of Genetic Effects,"
dated 18-19 May 1970 (4 pages).
DOC33: Billing Order for Neel's reimbursement to the Conference
referenced in DOC32, dated 4/6/70 (1 page).
DOC34: handwritten draft for DOC31, undated (34 pages).
DOC35: Draft of paper entitled "The Genetic Structure of a Tribal
Population, The Yanomama Indians, Eleven Blood Group Systems and
the ABH-Le Secretor Traits," not dated (14 pages). A paper co-
written with Gershowitz, the Layrisses, Chagnon, and Ayres, notes
the support of "U.S. Atomic Energy Comm. Grant AT(11-1)-1552."
DOC36: Table on sera tests from the 1968 expedition (with some
1966 data included for comparison, dated "Tested Oct. 1968" with
several other dates below in particular columns (2 pages). This
is entitled "Venezuelan Indian Sera from Dr. Neel, Univ.
Michigan" and is a series of tests for measles titers.
DOC37: handwritten table of HI tests with the header "Sent to:
Helen L. Casey, Ph.D. Atlanta, Georgia" dated 26 September 1968
(2 pages). This appears to be more results, with a notation on
the back indicating that the bloods were drawn 18 April 1968.
DOC38: small handwritten note with no attribution and no dates,
in provenance with DOC37 and COR120 (1 page). A number of almost
unreadable scribbles that needs to be examined more carefully.
DOC39: handwritten table entitled "Individuals with significant
titers (4-8)" only date is on the back which says "Yanomamo
sera" arrived 8-12-68Π(2 pages). There are a number of
notations next to subject numbers that indicate their status in
relation to measles and vaccination. This may bear closer
analysis.
DOC40: Handwritten table of specimens sent to Casey, dated 6 May
1968 (1 page). Most entries are "plasma only" and contain other
specimen indicators.
DOC41: handwritten table sent to Casey, dated 26 September 1968
(2 pages). This appears to be a sheet of specimen or subject
numbers, with a name, "T. Vittelino Bathazar" in the middle of
the first page.
DOC42: Handwritten list of measles antibody tables dated 16 April
1969 (the day is a bit obscured due to poor photocopy quality) (2
pages). This summarizes data on samples collected in 1969.
DOC43: Table entitled "Microneutralization Tests with Coxsackie B
Viruses," undated (1 page). This is the enclosure for COR126.
DOC44: Handwritten list with header "Dr. Helen Casey", dated 5
December 1966 (1 page). Lists a number of antibodies.
DOC45: Draft of paper "Ethical Issues Resulting from Prenatal
Diagnosis," by Neel, undated (18 pages). This appears to be
either the final draft or
the working presentation copy.
DOC46: Oversized handwritten tables entitled "C7 Antibody tiers"
and "HI antibody titers" undated and unattributed (10 pages). A
very lengthy list of all the major diseases and titers by subject
#.
DOC47: small handwritten note entitled "Kaufman and Ajello,"
undated and unattributed (1 page). A list of fungal diseases
with a check mark at the bottom.
DOC48: handwritten note that states "Yanomamo sera sent to CDC in
Atlanta, GA, on November 29, 1966" (1 page). In provenance with
COR142.
DOC49: handwritten list of numbers with no explanation, undated
(in
DOC50: Cryptic partial table, handwritten, no date (2 pages). At
the top is a sentence that appears to be partial, from a
preceding page that is not with these two. It reads "of those
not vaccinated by Roche." The list has two headings: "1) with
measles" and "2) without measles." There is also a column headed
"antibody status" and most of the subject numbers have no status.
DOC51: typed list entitled "Blood Tests and Vaccinations in
Carona of the Caura River on February 4 and 5, 1968" (2 pages).
Lists names, numbers, age, sex, a check-off for vaccination, and
genealogical data.
DOC52: typed tables on measles vaccinations, dated from 13
February 1968 to 19 February 1968, Bisaasi-teri and Carona and
other locations (4 pages). Details names, sex, weight, vaccine
status, and notations on sickness and administration of globulin.
DOC53: handwritten list of measles vaccinations in the village of
Shanamana on Padomo, dated 15 February 1968 (2 pages). Notes
names and weights and some sickness indicators, but nothing else.
DOC54: typed table entitled "Bebiwa¡s village," dated 16 February
1968 in handwriting at the top. Includes head and teeth
measurements as well as vaccination status.
DOC55: several handwritten pages (in Spanish?) regarding
vaccinations (5 pages). Difficult to decipher, but possibly
Roche's notes?
DOC56: table of "Measles Vaccinations in February 1968" at
Coshirowa-teri (2 pages). Has mostly temperature data.
DOC57: Cryptic handwritten note without date or attribution (1
page). Indicates vaccine given at Mavacca in two lots.
DOC58: Handwritten note labeled "Dr. Jackson ¤ P.D> - 20 March"
without date (1 page). Talks about globulin and has notes on
searching for lot number and other things.
DOC59: Map and another cryptic note, both undated and
unattributed (2 pages). Map shows rivers and movement of
multiple diseases. Note page appears to deal with temperatures
but a second page companion to it appears to be missing.
DOC60: a handwritten note to Neel, dated 12 June 1968 (1 page?).
May be related to DOC59 but handwriting looks different. This
letter contains MORTALITY FIGURES and some population figures and
appears to be continued but the other page or pages are not
present here.
DOC61: Handwritten note entitled "Cows at Ocamo", undated and
unattributed (1 page). Talks about purchases and presence of
cows at Ocamo.
DOC62: Referees' comments to Neel's AJE paper, dated 3 November
1969 (3 pages). A number of interesting comments.
DOC63: some handwritten notes and a table that are in provenance
with COR 143, undated (2 pages). These may be Neel's notes for
inclusion of data into the AJE article.
DOC64: a collection of tables and notes on measles epidemic,
dated 25 February 1968 (4 pages). Statistics on temperatures and
reactions to the vaccines.
DOC65: a collection of long tables on temperatures and other
information on the epidemic, undated (6 pages). Discusses
temperatures and other symptoms.
DOC66: handwritten table on measles tests "after vaccination and
after measles," undated (1 page). Lists titers from different
villages.
DOC67: a treatment of Neel's Science article by Dr. Philip
Ashmole (see COR145 and 146), undated (7 pages). A summary of
Neel's arguments about evolution, population, and "tribal life."
Emphasizes a number of elements, such as warfare.
DOC68: Referees' comments for Neel's Science article (6 pages).
One referee is very critical of the article from an
anthropological stance, the other goes into great length on each
section of the manuscript and its faults. The first basically
rejects the article, the second advocates heavy revisions.
DOC69: small handwritten note signed "RTD," undated (1 page). It
appears to refer to another document (see DOC70) which it is in
provenance with, and talks about changing some elements of it.
DOC70: typed table entitled "Xikrin of the Caitete,"
unattributed, dated March 1970 (23 pages). Genealogical and
residential information for this group.
DOC71: Equipment list for the 1968 study, dated January 1968,
with a US Customs stamp dated 11 January 1968 (15 pages). Lists
all the materials and equipment brought to the Amazon by the
expedition. Under Section IV (Medicine and Drugs) 1000 doses of
measles vaccine are listed (initially it was 2000 but the 2 is
crossed out) but there is no mention of gamma globulin.
DOC72: A collection of receipts and reimbursement requests for
the 1971 expedition (8 pages).
DOC73: A document in Spanish (set aside for further examination),
undated and unattributed, on the letterhead of the Venezuelan
Ministry of Justice.
DOC74: A document entitled "Supplies for Venezuela Expedition
1968" (9 pages). Basically breaks down supplies by Footlocker
and Destination (Mavaca, Sta. Maria, etc.).
DOC75: A group of documents that relate to the visa applications
for the 1964 and 1965 trips (12 pages). Includes a few blank
forms and a cover letter.
DOC76: Document entitled "Study of Disease Prevalents and Genetic
Variation in the Wapishana Indians of Guyana," no submission
date, includes the names of Neel, Oliver, and Richard S. Spielman
as primary investigators (8 pages). Outlines a plan to the
National Scientific Research Council of Guyana to study diseases
and populations being acculturated.
DOC77: Handwritten questions and notes entitled "Questions" with
no date or attribution (2 pages). Discusses admixture and
genetic analysis.
DOC78: A collection of handwritten tables and accompanying map on
allele frequency and admixture, no date or attribution (8 pages).
Unclear just when this was written or what it refers to
specifically.
DOC79: handwritten document entitled "List of Cluster
Assignments," dated 29 July 1974 (2 pages). Has a number of
"cluster" names and affiliated villages. Does not look like
Neel's writing, but other than that there are no clues as to the
author.
DOC80: Collection of handwritten data tables on alleles, no date
or attribution (7 pages). More tables on various sorts of
alleles and aspects of frequency, etc.
DOC81: Fragment of manuscript and several tables of information
on Yanomama villages (5 pages). The manuscript page talks about
defining village clusters, and the accompanying tables
(apparently prepared by . Tanis) lists village numbers, size,
and sector. Given the sampling dates this had to be written
after 1971.
DOC82: Collection of hand-written notes of village designations
and information, all undated (8 pages). Confusing group of notes
on village
numbers and names.
DOC83: Typed tables labeled "Village Designations ¤ Yanomama,"
not dated or signed (3 pages). A clean, orderly copy of village
names and number designations.
DOC84: Map entitled "Yanomama Villages Sampled by the 1966 IVIC-
Michigan Expedition," dated only 1966 (1 page). Simple mapping
of village locations.
DOC85: Map entitled only "Altos Orinocos" with the name "James P.
Barker Jr." in the lower right-hand corner (1 page copied into 8
sections). A thorough but undated map of the area, with a number
of scribbled comments on different events and landmarks.
DOC86: Physical examination material for the 1968 expedition(?)
(4 pages). A three-page "Code for Physical Exam" and a form for
physical examinations.
DOC87: a small handwritten note of a list of people, but the
purpose of the note is hard to discern because of poor
photocopying. It is dated
"For 1972-73".
DOC88: two pages of notes for research plans (probably 1972 given
provenance to COR172 and DOC89) (2 pages). Handwritten notes on
different research assistants and work plans.
DOC89: Document entitled "Prospectus for use of Indian data,"
dated 15 January 1972 (2 pages). Discusses a number of plans for
using gathered data.
DOC90: handwritten document entitled "Short list of Indian
Projects," undated (5 pages). A number of ideas for using
gathered data.
DOC91: a series of handwritten notes from meetings and off-the-
cuff brainstorming, most undated but some dated between 1966-1968
(36 pages). A variety of materials that are hard to separate,
many are just a few scribbled lines, others cryptic lists, but
some discuss his ideas and goals in greater detail, especially
those that are dated.
DOC92: Article from The Journal of Social Biology, 17(1), March
1970, by Francis Johnston entitled "Phenotypic Assortative Mating
Among the Peruvian Cashinahua." (5 pages).
DOC93: Paper entitled "Provisional Outline Prepared for the Use
of the Staff of the WHO Reference Serum Bank at Yale University,"
by John R. Paul. M.D., Director, undated (31 pages). A detailed
discussion of procedures and conditions at the Bank. Found in
one of Neel's
miscellaneous files.
DOC94: Paper entitled "Personal Fierceness and Headmen in
Yanomamo Disputes," by Napoleon A. Chagnon, an undated draft for
presentation at the 1968 AAA Meetings (34 pages). Chagnon's
discussion of a number of separate incidents of disputes and how
they were dealt with (or not) by headmen and the significance of
this for Yanomami social organization and adaptation.
DOC 95 13/9/1968 Salzano Grant Application to Agency for
International Development submitted with letter dated Sept. 13,
1968: "population dynamics and changing patterns of disease among
the Cayapo and Tiriyo Indians of Brazil"
Introduc and specific aims:
Two of the most important problems faced by modern
medicine are: a)the understnding of the factors which influence
population growth and decline; and b) the identification of the
genetic and physiological mechanisms which are important in the
adaptation of the genetic and physiologic mechanisms which are
important in the adaptation to a rapidly changing environment:
or, in a more specific way how human populations react to
diseases to which they had not been exposed for varying periods
of time.
...A question which is directly related to this problem [of
the determinants of population growth and decline--TT] is that
concerned with how human populations adapt to a rapidly changing
environment. What happens to populations which for a long time
had not been exposed to a given disease agent, when this agent
suddenly makes its reappearance? Also here studies on Brazilian
Indians can be especially rewarding, since some of them can be
regarded as immunologically "virgin", unexposed to certain
infectious diseases; and while there exist many reports about the
decimation of groups due to some of these diseases, sufficiently
detailed documentation is lacking...
The objective of this project is to complete studies already
started on the Cayapo Indians of Northern Brazil and to exend
these investigtions to the Tiriy¢. They would be compared to
similar data secured by our group on the Caingang..the Xavante
and the Yanomam". These studies would include: a) detailed
reproductive histories and genealogical information; b) typing of
as many individuals as possible for several genetic systems;
c)Data about their morbidity and mortality, as well as antibody
titres for several agents of disease.
DOC 96 1/9/1973 Francis Black Research Proposal to NSF
"Adaptation of Primitive Man and Viruses to each other" (Neel was
reviewer for NSF, therefore grant applica is in Neel's files)
In ABSTRACT: "Where live attenuated vaccines are available as
models of the natural viruses, these will be used to see if the
Indians exhibit unusual susceptibility or reactivity"
In INTRODUCTION: (p2 bot-p.3 top):
"The essence of the proposed study is the use of various
serological tests to determine which diseases are indigenous to
these tribes, which persist after recent introduction, and which
die out when introduced. Where live attenuated vaccines are
available as models of the natural viruses, these will be used to
see if the Indians exhibit unusual susceptiblity or reactivity."
PART II. SELECTED DOCUMENTS AND CORRESPONDENCE, IN CHRONOLOGICAL
ORDER 1964--1976 (Undated materials listed separately following
entries for 1976)
Correspondence coded as COR, Documents as DOC. Numbers correspond
to numbers in base list (Part I).
Pre 1966:
DOC75: A group of documents that relate to the visa applications
for the 1964 and 1965 trips (12 pages). Includes a few blank
forms and a cover letter.
10 March1964 COR 173 Salzano to Neel "Turner has just spent a
day with us..."
1966:
DOC84: Map entitled "Yanomama Villages Sampled by the 1966
IVIC-Michigan Expedition," dated only 1966 (1 page). Simple
mapping of village locations.
11 February 1966 COR 174 Salzano(?) to Dr. Jerry D.
Niswander, Human Genetics Branch, National Institute of Dental
Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda 14, MD
"There exist now at least two studies showing slight
differences in reproductive performance between individuals with
different cephalic indices (Bielicki, T. And Z. Welon. 1964.
Homo, 15 (1): 22-30; Huizinga, J. And A. Slob. 1965. Koninkl.
Nederl. Akademie van Wettenschappen--Amsterdam, Proceedings, Ser.
C., 68 (4):297-301). I think it would be worth while to check
this in our Xavante series..."
2 May 1966 COR 175 Salzano to Niswander
"Enclosed you will find three tables summarizing the
calculations I have performed concerning the problem cephalic
index: reproductive performance."
Table I: classify by dolicho or mesocephalic in rela to
average no. of liveborn children...
Table 2 & 3: correlation coefficients between cephalic index
values and average no. of liveborn children or the averge no.
of surviving offspring do [not show?] any significant
trend...Since the error of estimates based on such small samples
is very large I doubt if more sophisticated analyses should be
performed."
13 May 1966 COR 176 Neel to Salzano
"This matter of head form and reproductive performance is a
problem. It was on my mind even before you brought the question
up, but I had felt that we needed much more data before an
analysis would be profitable...I would hope that some day we
could combine your data on the Caingangs, our Xavante data, and
the data we hope to get on the Cayapo, and the Yanomama, and then
do an analysis of variance, partitioning by tribe and head form."
16 May 1966 COR 177 Salzano to Maybury-Lewis "Last month
[i.e., April] TereNNOTATED INDEX OF SELECTED DOCUMENTS AND CORR
Porto Alegre..."
15 June 1966 COR 178 Salzano to Neel. mentions missionary Rev
Neill Hawkins, cp 154, Boa Vista, Roraima. Mission has stations
at Mucajjai, Rio Uricoera, Rio Auaris and Serra Surucucu.
"Bartlett" (another Prot missionary among Brazilian Yanomami)
mentioned in later letter
10 June 1966 COR36: Letter to Neel from Dan Shaylor, dated 10
June 1966 (1 page). Updates Neel on the movement of several
groups of Indians.
20 September 1966 COR34: Letter to Reverend Macon C. Hare, New
Tribes Mission, from Neel, dated 20 September 1966. In it Neel
discusses the possibility of working in Brazil.
28 September 1966 COR138: Letter to Dr. U. Pentti Kokko, Chief,
Laboratory Branch, Communicable Disease Center, from Neel, dated
28 September 1966 (2 pages). An interesting letter that
describes some of the motivations behind Neel's field methods on
"significant disease pressures" and talks about his 1966
expedition.
17 October 1966 COR139: Letter to Neel from Kokko, dated 17
October 1966 (2 pages). Discusses which lab members can help
Neel in different aspects of his work and discusses the work of
the Sera Bank.
28 October 1966 COR140: Letter to Kokko from Neel, dated 28
October 1966 (2 pages). Discusses the options Kokko gave him and
also discusses operation "'melt-down'" in more detail.
16 November 1966 COR141: Letter to Neel from Kokko, dated 16
November 1966 (1 page). Talks about testing and the possibility
of storing Yanomama sera in the Serum Bank.
November 29, 1966 DOC48: handwritten note that states "Yanomamo
sera sent to CDC in Atlanta, GA, on November 29, 1966" (1 page).
In provenance with COR142.
5 December 1966 DOC44: Handwritten list with header "Dr. Helen
Casey", dated 5 December 1966 (1 page). Lists a number of
antibodies.
21 December 1966 COR137: Letter to Kaufman from Neel, dated 21
December 1966 (1 page). Discusses a number of enclosures on
various aspects of field tests.
1967:
3 January 1967 DOC3: A handwritten page titled "Conference with
Dr. Evehard and Oliver" apparently dated 3 January 1967 OR 3 June
1967 (difficult to decipher) that has notes on bacterial diseases
and a transportation schedule (1 page). Upon more careful
examination, it may be a page of Neel's journal; there is a "33"
in the upper left-hand corner it looks like, and the page
resembles a journal page.
5 January 1967 COR63: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 5
January 1967 (1 page). Discusses antibody testing.
23 January 1967 COR136: Letter to Neel from Kaufman, dated 23
January 1967 (1 page). Discusses some clinical histories that
Neel sent him.
8 January 1967 COR35: Letter to Neel from W. Neill Hawkins, CEM,
dated 28 January 1967 (1 page). In it Hawkins asks for advice on
recent outbreaks of what he thinks is malaria.
30 January 1967 COR135: Letter to Kaufman from Alice M.
Gundersen, Departmental Secretary, dated 30 January 1967 (1
page). Informs Kaufman that Neel is in the field, and has soil
collecting packages with him.
16 February 1967 COR66: Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated 16
February 1967 (2 pages). Apparently a response to an article
Neel sent him for comment.
[17 Feb 1967?] COR92: A handwritten note with Chagnon's name at
the top (1 page). It states that a shipment left Miami on 17
February (most likely 1967 given the note's provenance) and gives
details for receiving the shipment.
1 March 1967 COR94: Letter to Neel from Chagnon, dated 1 March
1967. Lots of small details about Chagnon's work and travails.
2 March 1967 COR67: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 2 March
1967 (2 pages). Continues discussion of article and talks a
little about next expedition.
2 March 1967 COR91: Letter to Chagnon from Neel, dated 2 March
1967 (1 page). Discusses some material shipped down to Chagnon.
At the end is the cryptic sentence "No. 1 priority to l'affaire
Strauss." [ref. to Levi-Strauss plans?]
6 March 1967 COR27: Letter to Dr. Libero Ajello, Chief of
Mycology and Parasitology Section, CDC, from Neel dated 6 March
1967 (2 pages). Neel talks about specimens collected in the 1967
expedition and again discusses his desire to "reconstruct a pre-
contact disease picture in the American Indian." He also
mentions collaborating with IVIC.
6 March 1967 COR134: Letter to Kaufman from Neel ,dated 6 March
1967 ( 1 page). Describes fungi among the Yanomama and other
antibody tests in the future.
9 March 1967 COR133: Letter to Neel from Kaufman, dated 9 March
1967 (1 page). Discusses data in a Neel letter of 6 March.
10 March 1967 COR57: Letter to Neill Hawkins from Neel, date 10
March 1967 (4 pages). A lengthy discussion of the disease
picture of the Yanomami.
10 March 1967 COR70: Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated 10
March 1967 (1 page). Mostly discussion about the 1967 expedition
and some comments on Brewer.
13 March 1967 COR68: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 13
March 1967 (1 page). Talks about dissuading Levi-Strauss from
working with the Yanomami to prevent overlap.
14 March 1967 COR93: Letter to Chagnon (c/o Layrisse) from
Neel, dated 14 March 1967 (2 pages). Discusses the possibility
of studying the "untouched" Shukuma, and details a plan to
dissuade Levi-Strauss from studying the Yanomami.
16 March 1967 COR72: Letter to Neel from Zulay Layrisse, dated
16 March 1967 (1 page). It is a duplicate of another letter
(COR71), with a P.S. that there was an error in the letter dated
the 17th(?).
16 March 1967 COR132: Letter to Kaufman from Neel, dated 16
March 1967 (1 page). Mentions sending soil specimens to Ajello.
17 March 1967 COR71: Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated 17
March 1967 (1 page). A short note on some bloods samples from
Chagnon.
22 March 1967 COR69: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 22
March 1967 (1 page). Discusses Layrisse's attendance at a WHO
conference.
10 April 1967 COR64: Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated 10
April 1967 (1 page). Talks about impending French expedition.
24 April 1967 COR65: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 24
April 1967(1 page). Some discussion of research plans.
8 May 1967 COR75: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 8 May
1967 (1 page). Discussion of how their "study of primitive
people has just been designated as a part of IBP."
31 May 1967 COR129: Letter to Neel from Casey, dated 31 May
1967 (1 page). Discusses antibody titer tests against "several
viral antigens."
7 June 1967 COR73: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 7 June
1967 (1 page). Discussion of samples from the 1967 expedition
and possible publication.
7 June 1967 COR130: Letter to Casey from Neel, dated 7 June
1967 (1 page). Thanks her for a preliminary report on the
Yanomama test results.
8 June 1967 COR74: Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated 8 June
1967 (1 page). Quick note regarding Neel's letter to 8 May 1967.
8 June 1967 COR30: Letter to Neel from Dr. Tulio Arends, dated
8 June 1967 (1 page). Arends discusses a number of tests he is
conducting for Neel, and at one point mentions "'operation melt-
down" in relation to "the study of abnormal transferrins."
26 June 1967 COR31: Letter to Arends from Neel, dated 26 June
1967. Neel mentions "Operation Melt-down" as a "current"
activity "for Brazilian Yanomama" and has to do with blood
processing.
26 July 1967. COR32: Letter to Arends from Neel, dated 26 July
1967.
1 August 1967 COR 167: Letter to Neel from M.R. de Carlo,
Assistant Executive Secretary, US-IBP, National Research Council,
dated 1 August 1967 (1 page). Informs Neel that his proposal has
been accepted by the program.
17 August 1967 COR128: Letter to Neel from Casey, dated 17
August 1967 (1 page). Discusses rubella HI results.
21 August 1967 COR76: Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated 21
August 1967 (1 page). Informs Neel that he is now chair of the
Venezuelan Committee for the IPB "regarding adaptability of
humans."
30 August 1967 COR77: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 30
August 1967 (3 pages). Lays out for Layrisse his tentative plans
for the 1968 expedition, and also discusses possible importance
of IBP for "the study of the vanishing primitive peoples."
30 August 1967 COR28: Letter to Dr. Joseph H. Schubert,
Bacterial Serology Unit, NCDC, from Neel, dated 30 August 1967 (1
page). More discussion of coming to the CDC to talk about
disease studies and again mentions wanting to look at the impact
of pre- and post- contact disease on the Indians, especially
morbidity-mortality rates.
30 August 1967 COR26: Letter to Casey from Neel, dated 30
August 1967 (1 page). Neel discusses the possibilities of
getting "the disease picture" of the Yanomami, and talks about
trying to set up a date to come to the CDC and discuss a study.
(QUESTION: Is this the "conference" that Lindee talks about which
she says was to learn about immunization?).
30 August 1967 COR53: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 30
August 1967 (3 pages). One of Neel's first articulations of the
expedition plan.
7 September 1967 COR87: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 7
September 1967 (1 page). Asking about blood group studies on
American Indians.
15 September 1967 COR 29: Letter to Dr. Robert A. Hingson,
Department of Anesthesiology, Western Reserve University, from
Neel, dated 15 September 1967 (1 page). Neel requests help for
immunizing against measles, smallpox, pertussis and tuberculosis.
The article is indexed here as DOC12.
18 September 1967 COR18: Letter to Layrisse from Chagnon, dated
18 September 1967 (2 pages) It seems to be a wrap-up letter of
some sort.
19 September 1967 COR54: Letter to Dan Shaylor from Neel, dated
19 September 1967 (2 pages). More discussion of his research
plan.
19 September 1967 COR56: Letter to Bob Shaylor from Chagnon,
dated 19 September 1967 (2 pages). Chagnon reiterates the
expedition plan Neel sent earlier and asks them to aid a French
anthropology student.
19 September 1967 COR95: Letter to Clifford Evans, Museum of
Natural History, from Chagnon, dated 19 September 1967 (1 page).
Talking about donating Yanomami material culture items, and some
professional small talk.
27 September 1967 COR126: Letter to Neel from Casey, dated 27
September 1967 (1 page). Talks about some neutralization tests
and Neel's plans to visit the NCDC (see DOC43).
28 September 1967 COR97: Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated 28
September 1967 (2 pages). Discussion of assorted details on the
expedition (responded to by Neel in COR96).
29 September 1967 COR19: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 29
September 1967 (1 page). In it Neel discusses the need for a
statement from IVIC for visas, and discusses who will be coming
on the expedition.
9 October 1967 COR96: Letter to Layrisse from Neel ,dated 9
October 1967 (1 page). Talks about expedition preparations, and
a plan to invite Yanomami to Santa Maria for their research
9 October 1967 COR86: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 9
October 1967 (1 page). Talking about information of gene
frequencies in Indians.
13 October 1967 COR55: Letter to Neel from Dan Shaylor,
handwritten and dated 13 October 1967 (3 pages). Response to
Neel's 19 September letter (COR54). Discusses a number of recent
developments in the field (such as the death of the MAF pilots)
19 October 1967 COR131: Letter to Neel from Leo Kaufman, Chief,
Fungus Immunology Unit, NCDC, dated 19 October 1967 (1 page).
Notes that either 13 or 20 November is good for him and Ajello to
meet with Neel. .
21 October 1967 COR79: Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated 21
October 1967 (2 pages). Discusses admixture and gene flow.
23 October 1967 COR125: Letter to Casey from Neel, dated 23
October 1967 (1 page). Asking for permission for a quote from a
manuscript.
24 October 1967 COR80: Letter to Neel and Dr. Henry Gershowitz
from Layrisse, dated 24 October 1967 (2 pages). Discussion of
Gershowitz's report on Rh and DCE results (with enclosed table).
25 October 1967 COR169: Letter to the Venezuelan Consulate from
James E. Lesch, Assistant to the Vice-President for Academic
Affairs, dated 25 October 1967 (1 page). Verifies Neel's
employment.
2 November 1967 COR170: Letter to Consul General, Venezuelan
Consulate from Neel, dated 2 November 1967 (1 page, 3 copies).
Certifies Ernest Migliazza's position as Research Assistant.
7 November 1967 COR124: Letter to Neel from Casey, dated 7
November 1967 (1 page). Discusses the anti-disease measures Neel
must take before coming to the Virology Section of the NCDC. His
arrival date is to be 19 November 1967.
15 November 1967 COR78: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 15
November 1967 (3 pages). More discussion of his plans for the
1968 expedition.
16 November 1967 COR58: Letter to the US Embassy in Caracas
from John R. Trotter, US Atomic Energy Commission, dated 16
November 1967 (1 page). A request for the Embassy to aid in the
transport of Neel's samples.
16 November 1967 COR166: Letter to the U.S. Embassy in Caracas
from John R. Totter, Director, Division of Biology and Medicine,
AEC, dated 16 November 1967 (1 page). Letter of Introduction
asking that the US Embassy help with air transportation for
Neel's samples.
21 November 1967 COR37: Letter to Mr. Robert Shaylor from Neel,
dated 21 November 1967 (2 pages). Neel discusses the
expedition's plans and at the end of the letter discusses trying
to immunize Indians during the expedition.
November 28, 1967 COR39: Letter to Neel from Robert Shaylor,
dated November 28, 1967. He talks about the coming of measles
above Mavaca.
5 December 1967 COR81: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 5
December 1967 (1 page). Discusses the possible re-designation of
the Yanomami project by IBP and mentions an AEC grant in relation
to their work.
11 December 1967 COR38: Handwritten letter to Neel from Dan
Shaylor, dated 11 December 1967 (1 page). Shaylor discusses his
plans regarding the 1968 expedition, and mentions in a P.S. that
"[t]here are reports of measles coming from Brazil down the
Orinoco."
11 December 1967 COR5: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, date 11
December 1967 (1 page). This is the letter where Neel requests
Layrisse to obtain the Venezuelan government's permission to
vaccinate the Yanomami. As he puts it, "[t]here seems to be a
raging measles epidemic amongst the Yanomama" on the Brazilian
side.
12 December 1967 COR20: Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated 12
December 1967 (2 pages, plus a short 1 page version of the IPB
submission). Here Layrisse discusses several issues, including a
"tentative draft of the joining studies between your Department
and IVIC." This draft is listed in this Index as DOC8.
[12 December 1967 ?] DOC8: document titled "IBP Program" that
appears to be a draft for a cooperative study between Neel's
Department and IVIC, written by Layrisse (1 page). It is in
provenance with COR20 and appears to have been enclosed with that
letter.
15 December 1967 COR127: handwritten note (draft perhaps) to
Casey from Neel, marked "sent 12/15/67" (1 page). Discusses sera
shipment details.
19 December 1967. COR47: Letter to Neel from Dr. R.R. Widmann,
Director of Clinical Research, Cyanamid International, dated 19
December 1967. Dr. Widmann tells Neel that his corporation is
donating 1000 doses of measles vaccine and then gives him
instructions on how to store it and keep it active.
19 December 1967 COR48: Letter to Dr. Fernano C. Ottati,
Director of Medical Research and Development, Cyanamid
International, from Dr. M. Martina da Silva, Chief, Office of
Research Coordination, PAHO, dated 19 December 1967. The letter
is a request for 1000 doses of measles vaccine for Neel's
expedition.
19 December 1967 COR21: Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated 19
December 1967 (1 page). In it Layrisse briefly discusses the IBP
draft (DOC8) and talks about genetic studies.
20 December 1967 COR40: Letter to Dan Shaylor, apparently from
Chagnon, but unsigned (his name is in brackets at the top of the
first page, handwritten), dated 20 December 1967 (2 pages). He
discusses a number of aspects of the expedition, including plans
to inoculate Indians from measles. He states that they "are
confident that it will work without producing undesirable side
effects."
21 December 1967 COR22: Letter to Layrisse from Neel, dated 21
December 1967 (1 page). Neel discusses rewriting the IBP
prospectus and discusses vaccinations given that "there is a bad
measles outbreak on the Brazilian side."
27 December 1967 COR52: Letter to Dr. da Silva from Neel, dated
27 December 1967 (1 page). Requests PAHO papers for the
expedition's equipment.
1968:
[1968] DOC86: Physical examination material for the 1968
expedition(?) (4 pages). A three-page "Code for Physical Exam"
and a form for physical examinations.
[1968] DOC74: A document entitled "Supplies for Venezuela
Expedition 1968" (9 pages). Basically breaks down supplies by
Footlocker and Destination (Mavaca, Sta. Maria, etc.).
[1968] DOC16: A photocopy of several pamphlets on the use of two
measles vaccines and globulin, all issued or revised in 1966 and
1967 (6 pages). These pamphlets discuss the uses and
contraindications for the vaccines, which appear to include
certain sorts of gamma globulin injections (?). They appear to
be in provenance with 1968 materials.
3 January 1968 COR168: Letter to Mauricio M. Bernbaum U.S.
Embassy in Caracas from Stone, dated 3 January 1968 (1 page). A
letter of introduction emphasizing the importance of Neel's work
and requesting assistance for this expedition.
3 January 1968 COR165: Letter "To Whom It May Concern" from
Frederick L. Stone, Ph.D., Director, National Institute of
General Medical Sciences, dated 3 January 1968 (1 page). Letter
of Introduction for Neel and his expedition.
5 January 1968 COR84: Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated "5 de
Enero 1968" (1 page). Letter about adjusting the IBP proposal.
[5 January 1968 ?] DOC9: ruled handwritten note titled "CABLE"
to Layrisse from Neel, apparently sent 5 January 1968 (1 page).
The note states the arrival of expedition members and supplies.
[7 January to 8 March 1968] DOC1: Field journal of Dr. Neel,
pp. 36-134, covering dates 7 January to 8 March 1968.
8 January 1968 COR25: Letter to Neel from Casey, dated 8
January 1968 (1 page). Casey discusses a test she ran for
measles antibodies (the results are listed in this Index as
DOC11).
8 January 1968 DOC11: Enclosure from Casey to Neel dated 8
January 1968 (1 page). This is a list of measles HI antibody
titers tested that is referenced in COR25.
9 January 1968 COR 179 Willard R. Centerwall "To Whom It May
Concern" (i.e., missionaries in Brazil )to accompany 1000 doses
of vaccine. It sets out a protocol for immunizing the Yanomami.
At the bottom is a handwritten note asking "[I]f possible,
compare the reactions of the two [makes?] of vaccine (canine
kidney + egg culture)." The protocol reads:
"In brief, it should be realized that the Edmonston
strain of vaccine though immunologically effective is known to
cause significantly high fevers and reactions in some persons.
This is perhpas even more likely among measles-free peoples. The
concomitant use of gamma globulin would help modify the reactions
but in the absence of gammaglobulin, measles vaccination is still
considered very much worth the risks providing certain
precautions are taken, i.e.:
(1) avoid vaccinating infants especially under 1 year of age, TB
patients, acutely ill people, and persons who are old and/or
infirm.
(2) vaccinate only half of the able-bodied village ppopulation at
one time so the unvaccinated individuals will be able to care for
the needs of the vaccinated ones.
(3) vaccinate populations which can be observed during the
resting period (8-12 days post vaccination) so that any high
feveers can be treated with aspirin and fluids and any bacterial
comliccations treated with antibiotics or sulfa drugs...
(4) alert the people being vaccinated that they may feel a bit
ill from the vaccination but not as badly as the disease from
which they are being protected.
The vaccination causes what is essentially a mild case of
measles which is not contagious..."
10 January 1968 COR15: Letter to Dr. Francis L. Black from
Centerwall, dated 10 January 1968 (1 page). In it he talks about
the flyers that came with the vaccine and globulin and how they
will adjust dosages, and also who they will not vaccinate. He
also references the "half village" immunization procedure (leave
half of village unvaccinated so they can care for the vaccinated
half while suffering reactions from vaccine).
10 January 1968 COR123: Letter to Casey from Carol Nevins,
dated 10 January 1968 (1 page). She informs Casey that Neel has
left and that her correspondence will be sent to him.
11 January 1968 DOC71: Equipment list for the 1968 study, dated
January 1968, with a US Customs stamp dated 11 January 1968 (15
pages). Lists all the materials and equipment brought to the
Amazon by the expedition. Under Section IV (Medicine and Drugs)
1000 doses of measles vaccine are listed (initially it was 2000
but the 2 is crossed out) but there is no mention of gamma
globulin.
26 January 1968 COR83: Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated "26
de Enero 1968" (1 page). Apologizes for vacuntainer problems and
comments that "blood arrived in excellent condition" to his lab.
February 1968 DOC56: table of "Measles Vaccinations in February
1968" at Coshirowa-teri (2 pages). Has mostly temperature data.
2 February 1968 COR82: Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated 2
February 1968 (1 page). Requests blood samples and expresses
gladness that "the minor problems faced" by the expedition "have
been solved properly."
4 and 5 February , 1968 DOC51: typed list entitled "Blood Tests
and Vaccinations in Carona of the Caura River on February 4 and
5, 1968" (2 pages). Lists names, numbers, age, sex, a check-off
for vaccination, and genealogical data.
13 February 1968 DOC52: typed tables on measles vaccinations,
dated from 13 February 1968 to 19 February 1968, Bisaasi-teri and
Carona and other locations (4 pages). Details names, sex,
weight, vaccine status, and notations on sickness and
administration of globulin.
15 February 1968 DOC53: handwritten list of measles
vaccinations in the village of Shanamana on Padomo, dated 15
February 1968 (2 pages). Notes names and weights and some
sickness indicators, but nothing else.
16 February 1968 DOC54: typed table entitled "Bebiwa's
village," dated 16 February 1968 in handwriting at the top.
Includes head and teeth measurements as well as vaccination
status.
17 February 1968 COR142: Letter to Neel (Chagnon crossed out),
from Merrill Seely, dated 17 February 1968. Notes data enclosed
an d thanks him for his help at Carona.
25 February 1968 DOC64: a collection of tables and notes on
measles epidemic, dated 25 February 1968 (4 pages). Statistics
on temperatures and reactions to the vaccines.
29 February 1968 COR90: Letter to Layrisse from Ruth Sanger of
the Lister Institute, dated 29 February 1968 (1 page). Going
over some tests her group conducted from one family's bloods.
29 February 1968 DOC18: article from Brown Gold, March 1968,
25(11) (1 page), entitled "Measles Among the Indians" by Mrs.,
Joe Dawson. Discusses some details of the measles epidemic.
11 March 1968 COR51: Letter to Neel from Chagnon, handwritten
and dated 11 March 1968 (1 page). Chagnon assures Neel that more
bloods are coming and talks a bit about filming The Feast.
11 March 1968 COR98: Letter to Neel from Chagnon, dated 11 March
1968 (1 page). Post-expedition trivia (probably a duplicate of
COR51).
13 March 1968 COR42: Letter to Neel from the Paul Dye family,
dated 13 March 1968, handwritten (2 pages). The letter discusses
a new measles outbreak at "Mono teri." They state that "many
have died since you've gone, in Sahanma¤a also."
1 April 1968 DOC22: Cable from Neel to Layrisse, dated 1 April
1968 (1 page). Asking about tracing Asch's equipment.
1 April 1969 COR 164: Neel to Nelson (2 pages). Discusses
Nelson's NAS application and his own desire for more North
American genetic information.
2 April 1968 COR85: Letter to Layrisse from Neel dated 2 April
1968 (1 page). Follow-up on expedition, mostly about specimens
and Ward leaving some items behind.
6 April 1969 COR163 Richard K. Nelson, Department of
Anthropology, UCSB to Neel from(1 page). Discusses possibility
of genetics studies with Athapaskan group.
4 April 1968 COR16: Letter to Roche from Neel, dated 4 April
1968 (1 page). In it he mentions talking about the measles at a
PAHO meeting, and also asks if Roche would "drop me a few lines
characterizing your clinical impression of the young Brazilian
whom you saw with measles."
15 April 1968 COR24: Letter to Dr. Helen L. Casey from Neel,
dated 15 April 1968 (1 page). Neel discusses the expedition's
fruits, and in particular focuses on the research opportunities
around the measles epidemic, particularly at Ocamo where an
earlier expedition had found measles antibodies.
15 April 1968 DOC6: Handwritten note with stamp that dates it
"SENT Apr 15 1968 Human Genetics" (1 page) It is apparently to
Roche from Neel asking for assurance that a vaccine donation is
acceptable to the Venezuelan government.
18 April 1968 COR 180 Neel to Salzano "Our field work in
Venezuela went very roughly indeed, thanks to an epidemic of
measles. In the end we made out reasonably well, but it was
probably the most strenuous two months of my entire life. The AEC
grant that supports this work comes up for its three-year renewal
this spring...18 April 1968 COR88: Letter to Layrisse from
Neel, dated 18 April 1968 (2 pages). Most of the letter is about
resolving discrepancies in blood typing and Rh types. Neel also
mentions that he is working hard on the renewal grant from the
AEC.
18 April 1968 DOC4: A receipt dated 18 April 1968 from Philips
Roxane, Inc., that appears in provenance with COR12 (1 page).
19 April 1968 COR49: Letter to Neel from Dr. Kenneth R. Wilcox.
Jr., Associate Director for Laboratory Services, Michigan
Department of Public Health, dated 19 April 1968 (1 page). It
attempts to explain the contraindication warning on an unnamed
batch of measles vaccine.
19 April 1968 DOC5 A Western Union telegram dated 19 April
1968, from Roche to Neel (1 page). The message reads "DONATION
ACCEPTABLE OUR GOVERNMENT." [NB: Presumably response to Neel's
note of 15 April. This appears to have been the document
originally claimed by S. Lindee to be Venezuelan government
permission for the AEC expedition of Jan--March 1968 to
vaccinate, despite its April date]
22 April 1968 COR50 Letter to Roche from Neel, dated 22 April
1968 (1 page). Neel tells Roche that more vaccine and globulin
are on their way.
22 April 1968 COR122 Letter to Neel from Casey, dated 22
April 1968 (1 page). Informing Neel that he can send "the ten
plasma samples" although she may not get to do all the tests he
wants.
22 April 1968 COR41 Letter to Bob Shaylor from Neel, dated 22
April 1968 (2 pages). He discusses further measles problems and
asks for data on temperature response. He also states that the
epidemic "would undoubtedly been worse without the vaccine we
were able to get in. . ." and asks for more information on
mortality.
15/4/68 DOC6 Handwritten note (text for a telegram?)with stamp
that dates it "SENT Apr 15 1968 Human Genetics" (1 page) It is
apparently from Neel to Roche asking for assurance that a vaccine
donation is acceptable to the Venezuelan government.
23 April 1968 DOC7 A cable to Roche from Neel dated 23 April
1968 (1 page). In it Neel states that 1000 doses of vaccine and
globulin are being shipped.
25 April 1968 COR89 Letter to Neel from Layrisse, dated 25
April 1968 (2 pages, plus attachment entered as DOC23). This is
a discussion of the blood tests from the 1968 expedition.
26 April 1968 COR 11: Letter to Dr. Kenneth J. Wilcox, Jr.,
Associate Director for Laboratory Services, Michigan Department
of Public Health., from Neel, dated 26 April 1968 (1 page). In
it Neel acknowledges "safe receipt of the immune serum globulin"
and states that "[q]uite aside from the usual humanitarian
considerations, serious decimation of the group would mean the
loss of a tremendous resource for studies of human biology."
26 April 1968 COR13: Letter to Dr. S.J. Musser from Neel, dated
26 April 1968 (1 page). In it Neel acknowledges receipt of 2000
doses of vaccine, explains its usage (in language very similar to
COR11) and states that the vaccine is on its way to Venezuela.
(QUESTION for later examination: why were only 1000 doses sent
instead of the whole 2000?).
6 May 1968 DOC40: Handwritten table of specimens sent to Casey,
dated 6 May 1968 (1 page). Most entries are "plasma only" and
contain other specimen indicators.
6 May1968 COR 181 Marcel Roche to Neel.
"The vaccines finally did arrive on Thursday [April] 25...In
the meantime...the ministry [of health]? Had received a large
batch of vaccines and let us have 800 of them (Sharp and Dohme).
They apparently have conducted studies which have proved to their
satisfaction that one third of the dose was just as effective as
the whole dose and produced less reaction..We will proceed with
vaccination on that basis.
As for the vaccines sent by you, I believe in view of the
close expiration date, the best solution was to send them to the
Ministry of Health, who agreed to use them promptly so that they
are not wasted."
7 May 1968 COR17: Letter to Neel from Will and Mary Roundy,
dated 7 May 1968 (1 page). In this short letter the Roundys tell
Neel that they noted the following mortality from the measles
epidemics:
1) at Shanama¤a, 3 adults and 10 children died, including an
infant given globulin.
2) they state that "measles are running rampant at Casharawa teri
and Yabitawa teri. 18 have died and the rest are very sick."
3) They state that another group acquired measles (Shibariwa;
teri?) and 38 who came out all got well, but some who stayed at
home died (no figure).
13 May 1968 COR99: Letter to Chagnon from Neel, dated 13 May 1968
(1 page). Details Chagnon's food expenses.
20 May 1968 COR45: Letter to Neel from Bob Shaylor, dated 20
May 1968 (2 pages). States that about 4000 doses of vaccine have
been received and that "4 teams are out vaccinating."
10 June 1968 COR43: Letter to Bob Shaylor from Neel, dated 10
June 1968 (1 page). He mentions the vaccine exchange that took
place, and again notes that he feels the expedition's work
lessened the impact of the epidemic.
12 June 1968 DOC60: a handwritten note to Neel, dated 12 June
1968 (1 page?). May be related to DOC59 but handwriting looks
different. This letter contains MORTALITY FIGURES and some
population figures and appears to be continued but the other page
or pages are not present here.
20 June 1968 COR46: Letter to Neel from Dr. Charles Patton,
dated 20 June 1968 (2 long pages). Discusses vaccination efforts
in Brazil.
20 June 1968 Charles N. Patton, M.D., to Neel
(reporting on disposition of the 1,000 doses of vaccine sent by
Neel. "Only about 500 could be used by our missionaries in this
area. Tootobi and Mucaja¡ had recently suffered measles
epidemics, so didn't need the vaccine. Uaic station
istemporarily closed...That left only Auris and Surucuc£.
In Auris about 150 doses were used...The missionary was
left alone to care for all the reactions, and apparently was too
overewhelmed to record the data as I had requested... She says,
"All had fever, in 50% it was between 39 and 40 degrees C. 90%
had conjunctivitis and cough. Some were confined to their
hammock. 2% had an urticarial type eruption." An unsepcified
number had measles-type eruptions--"in 4 children it covered the
entire body."
In Surucuc£ about 300 doses were applied, but nearly half
of these were vaccine purchased by the mission (Lirurgen [a brand
of Schwarz vaccine--T.T.]). After hearing of the strong reactions
in Auris, they were afraid to vaccinate everybody at once with
the Roxanne (Edmonston B: T.T.] vaccine. Yet they realized that
if they did only part of the people, the rest would observe the
reactions and as a result refuse to accept the vaccine at a later
date. So they decided to vaccinate about half with the
"non-reacting" Lirurgen...
23 June 1968 COR121: Letter to Neel from Donna T. Warfield,
Viral Immunoserology Unit, National Communicable Disease Center,
dated 23 June 1968 (1 page). This is a list of CF and HI test
results.
July 1968 DOC 17: article from Brown Gold, July 1968, 26(3) (1
page). It mentions the continuing penetration of measles into
Guiaca territory in Venezuela.
5 July 1968 COR14: Letter to Dr. Charles Patton from Neel,
dated 5 July 1968 (1 page). One particular remark stands out: he
stated that "[t]he mortality in Brazil is lower than the
mortality in Venezuela."
22 July 1968 COR23: Letter to Dr. Helen L. Casey, Chief, Viral
Immunoserology Unit, National Communicable Disease Center, from
Neel dated 22 July 1968 (2 pages). Neel discusses a number of
issues centered on the article he writing; one thing he mentions
in particular is the need to "collect more data from the field on
mortality."
31 July 1968 DOC15: A photocopy of an envelope and an enclosed
map entitled "The Encroachment of Measles Upon the Yanomamo
Territory of South America" (2 pages). The envelope has
Centerwall's name written on it and is dated 31 July 1968.
1 August 1968 COR120: Letter to Casey from Neel, dated 1 August
1968 (1 page). Informs her that more specimens are coming and
that "I think we have a really interesting little paper going."
[12 August 1968] DOC39: handwritten table entitled "Individuals
with significant titers (4-8), only date is on the back which
says "Yanomamo sera - arrived 8-12-68" (2 pages). There are a
number of notations next to subject numbers that indicate their
status in relation to measles and vaccination. This may bear
closer analysis.
16 September 1968 COR33: Letter to Mr. Rodney Lewis, Cruzada de
Evangeliza‡ao Mundial, from Neel, dated 16 September 1968. In it
he again mentions wanting to "understand the disease picture
among the Yanomama," with the objective of advising on improving
their health. "[T]his policy paid off handsomely in connection
with the measles epidemic," he says.
18 September 1968 COR61: Letter to Mr. And Mrs. Will Roundy
from Neel, dated 18 September 1968 (1 page). Thanks them for
their August letter and talks about future plans.
24 September 1968 COR44: Letter to Kathy Earle, New Tribes
Mission, from Chagnon, dated 24 September 1968 (1 page).
Discusses planning for the 1969 expedition.
26 September 1968 DOC37: handwritten table of HI tests with the
header "Sent to: Helen L. Casey, Ph.D. - Atlanta, Georgia," dated
26 September 1968 (2 pages). This appears to be more results,
with a notation on the back indicating that the bloods were drawn
18 April 1968.
26 September 1968 DOC41: handwritten table sent to Casey, dated
26 September 1968 (2 pages). This appears to be a sheet of
specimen or subject numbers, with a name, "T. Vittelino Bathazar"
in the middle of the first page
[October 1968] DOC36: Table on sera tests from the 1968
expedition (with some 1966 data included for comparison, dated
"Tested Oct. 1968" with several other dates below in particular
columns (2 pages). This is entitled "Venezuelan Indian Sera
from Dr. Neel, Univ. Michigan" and is a series of tests for
measles titers.
[October 1968?] DOC19: A collection of articles (source unknown)
by various missionaries about the Measles Epidemic, possibly
dating from October 1968 (9 pages). One article has a map of the
epidemic, while several others detail what happened in various
communities.
December 1968 COR62: Letter to Neel from the Roundys, dated
December 1968. A handwritten footnote says that measles have
"reached the new location near the Brasilian border."
19 December 1968 DOC27: handwritten note dated 19 December 1968
regarding arrangements made for cargo by Chagnon.
1969:
1 April 1969 COR 164: Letter to Nelson from Neel, dated 1 April
1969 (2 pages). Discusses Nelson's NAS application and his own
desire for more North American genetic information.
6 April 1969 COR163: Letter to Neel from Richard K. Nelson,
Department of Anthropology, UCSB, dated 6 April 1969 (1 page).
Discusses possibility of genetics studies with Athapaskan group.
15 April 1969 COR161: Letter to Neel from Dr. Osvalds
Mutchinick, Direccion Nacional de Genetica, Secretaria de Estado
de Salud Publica, dated 15 April 1969 (2 pages). Asks for
assistance with fingerprint study. Encloses a table of that
study.
16 April 1969 DOC42: Handwritten list of measles antibody
tables dated 16 April 1969 (the day is a bit obscured due to poor
photocopy quality) (2 pages). This summarizes data on samples
collected in 1969.
8 May 1969 COR162: Letter to Mutchinick from Neel, dated 8 May
1969 (1 page). Informs Mutchinick that he is still analyzing his
own dermatoglyphic information.
15 May 1969 COR102: Letter to Neel from Chagnon, dated 15 May
1969 (1 page). A number of small issues discussed, such as
changes in Indian policy and IVIC staff, a story about "a mad
Frenchman," and some other minutia.
18 May 1969 COR100: Letter to Neel from Chagnon, dated 18 May
1969 (1 page). Talks about iodine experiments and a discussion
Chagnon had with Jean-Paul Dumont about taking blood samples from
the Panare (1 page).
19 May 1969 COR160: Letter to Neel from Gunn, dated 19 May 1969
(1 page). Discusses his work as doctor and ethnologist.
23 May 1969 COR101: Letter to Chagnon from Neel, dated 23 May
1969 (2 pages). Talks about iodine experiments and further blood
studies, and references the possibility of [himself and ?]
Chagnon going to Ohio State.
27 May 1969 COR159: Letter to Dr. S. William A. Gunn, WHO, from
Neel, dated 27 May 1969 (1 page). Thanks him for information on
the Haida.
11 July 1969 COR155: Letter to Neel from Rolf A. Geerdink,
Stichting Academisch Ziekenhuis Utrecht, dated 11 July 1969 (2
pages). Discusses his own work with the Trio and Wayana Indians
on blood typing and "skinfold thicknesses."
13 August 1969 COR149: Letter to Neel from Dr. Francis L.
Black, dated 13 August 1969 (1 page). Comments on Neel's
"measles" article and discusses the question of "'racial
susceptibility to measles," which he states was an idea of Neel's
that was misrepresented in a WHO Chronicle article.
22 August 1969 COR150: Letter to Black from Neel, dated 22
August 1969 (1 page) Neel thanks Black for his comments.
3 November 1969 DOC62: Referees' comments to Neel's AJE paper,
dated 3 November 1969 (3 pages). A number of interesting
comments.
17 November 1969 COR143: Letter to Neel from John P. Fox,
Assistant Managing Editor, AJE, dated 17 November 1969 (2 pages).
Discusses the referees comments of DOC62, agreeing with the first
referee but offering rewriting suggestions. His most trenchant
criticism is that Neel needs to consider "the probable relation
of age to the severity of clinical responses to both wild virus
and vaccine virus infections."
December 1969 DOC21: Article from Brown Gold, December 1969, no
volume number (3 Pages). Written by Mrs. Ron Bodin, it discusses
the discovery of the "Yoana" Indians
5 December 1969 COR144: Letter to Fox from Neel, dated 5
December 1969 (2 pages). Neel discusses the changes he has made
in response to Fox's and the referees' comments.
1970:
March 1970a DOC70: typed table entitled "Xikrin of the
Caitete," unattributed, dated March 1970 (23 pages).
Genealogical and residential information for this group.
March 1970 b DOC92: Article from The Journal of Social Biology,
17(1), March 1970, by Francis Johnston entitled "Phenotypic
Assortative Mating Among the Peruvian Cashinahua." (5 pages).
6 April 1970 DOC33: Billing Order for Neel's reimbursement to
the Conference referenced in DOC32, dated 4/6/70 (1 page).
21 April, 1970 DOC28: a hand-drawn map titled "Based on
conversation with Daniel de Barandiaran April 21, 1970" (1 page).
This is in provenance with COR105 and 106, but it is difficult to
tell which it relates to at this time. The map is not detailed
but has some intriguing notes on it, such as "5000 diamond
miners" at the head of Rio Parucito.
22 and 24 April 1970 COR105: Letter to Neel from Chagnon, dated
22 April AND 24 April 1970 (6 pages). Full of details on recent
fieldwork and assorted issues around research, including
relations with other researchers.
28 April 1970 COR151: Letter to Neel from Dr. Alfonso Paredes,
Professor of Research Psychiatry, University of Oklahoma Medical
Center, dated 28 April 1970 (1 page). Introduces a research
proposal he wants Neel to examine.
1 May 1970 COR106: hand-written letter to Neel from Chagnon,
dated 1 May 1970 (2 pages). Discusses research and prospects
from next expedition.
1 May 1970 COR104: Letter to Chagnon from Neel, dated 1 May
1970 (1 page). More details on future work and personnel.
11 May 1970 COR152: Letter to Paredes from Neel, dated 11 May
1970 (1 page). Comments on a draft research project Paredes sent
him, noting the similarities and commenting on his own ideas of
"acculturation."
15 May 1970 COR103: Letter to Chagnon from Neel, dated 15 May
1970 (2 pages). A number of small details about ongoing and
future work.
18 May 1970 COR107: hand-written letter to Neel ("Jim") from
Chagnon, dated 18 May 1970 (1 page). Some suggestions on
scheduling the research plan, with a hand-drawn map at the
bottom.
18 May 1970 COR119: Letter to Neel from Mary G. Lauer,
Conference Coordinator, NIH, dated 18 May 1970 (1 page).
Confirms Neel's reimbursement for the conference referenced in
DOC32. Included with this letter was DOC33.
18-19 May 1970 DOC32: List entitled "Participants to Conference
on Ethical Problems in Human genetics: Early Diagnosis of Genetic
Effects," dated 18-19 May 1970 (4 pages).
5- 6 June 1970 COR109: Letter to Neel and Layrisse from
Chagnon, dated 5 June AND 6 June 1970 (6 pages). Another detail-
filled letter on fieldwork and assorted other issues.
6 June 1970 COR8: Letter to Dr. S.J. Musser, Director of
Research, Philips Roxane Inc., from Neel, dated 26 June 1970 (1
page). In it Neel points out an acknowledgment from an article.
26 June 1970 COR9: Letter to Dr. R. M. Hodges, Director, Ann
Arbor Research, Parke Davis and Company Research Laboratories,
from Neel, dated 26 June 1970 (1 page). In it Neel points out an
acknowledgment from an article.
26 June 1970 COR10: Letter to Dr. Kenneth J. Wilcox, Jr.,
Associate Director for Laboratory Services, Michigan Department
of Public Health., from Neel, dated 26 June 1970 (1 page). In
this letter Neel thanks Wilcox's office for some gamma-globulin.
"Enclosed please find a small piece of evidence, as to how the
gamma-globulin was put to work."
26 June 1970 COR157: Letter to Neel from Geerdink, dated 26
June 1970 (1 page). Note of thanks and some personal updates.
24 July 1970 COR153: Letter to Mrs. Josephine K. Doherty,
Associate Program Director for Environmental Biology, National
Science Foundation from Richard Oliver, Staff Officer, National
Research Council, dated 24 July 1970 (1 page). Discusses
Paredes' research proposal and its administrative rejection by
the IBP because "we have closed the US/IBP to additional IRPs."
He requests that this not prejudice the project for the NSF.
8 July 1970 COR158: Letter to Geerdink from Carol Nevins,
dated 8 July 1970 (1 page). Tells Geerdink that Neel will get
his letter on his return from South America.
24 July 1970 COR154: Letter to Paredes from Oliver, dated 24
July 1970 (2 pages). Explains the decision to reject Paredes'
proposal.
7 August 1970 DOC13: Memo to Dr. R.L. Westerman, from M.T.
Kenny, Assay Lab, Dow Chemical, dated 7 August 1970 (1 page).
The memo discusses proper amounts of serum needed for various
disease testings.
4 November 1970 COR1: Letter to Neel from Dr. Joseph E.
Jackson, Director of Biological Clinical Research, Dow Chemical
Company, dated 4 November 1970 (3 pages). A discussion of "a
possible trivalent live virus vaccine field trial in the
Yanomama." He goes over a number of technical points, mostly
focused on questions of drawing and transporting bloods at the
proper times.
9 December 1970 COR146: Letter to Neel from Ashmole, dated 9
December 1970. Introduces a treatment he wrote of Neel's Science
article that he wishes to publish (see DOC67).
9 December 1970 COR147: Letter to Neel from Evert C. Jones,
U.S. National Marine Fisheries Service, dated 9 December 1970 (2
pages). Discusses his impression of Neel's theory of
intelligence in relation to his own, which believes that high
intelligence has "negative survival value for the species."
22 December 1970 DOC2: "Statement of Investigator" Draft
Protocol Submission for a Study entitled "An Evaluation of the
Safety and Efficacy of Live, Attenuated Rubeola, Rubella and
Mumps Vaccine Administered in Combination." The date on the
Draft document is 12/22/70, and it is in provenance with COR2 and
is also referred to in that letter. It appears that it was
written by Dr. Jackson, but in COR2 he states that it was
discussed with Neel prior to its drafting. The Statement has a
cover sheet and two copies of the Draft Protocol, each five pages
in length, for a total of 11 pages.
15 December 1970 COR145: Letter to Dr. N. Philip Ashmole,
Associate Professor of Biology, Peabody Museum of Natural History
from Neel, dated 15 December 1970 (1 page). Thanks Ashmole for
his treatment of the Science article and gently critiques a point
about brain size.
18 December 1970 COR148: Letter to Jones from Neel, dated 18
December 1970 (1 page). Neel replies that "we are thinking along
similar lines" to Jones', and that he would like to administer
intelligence tests to "chiefs and non-chiefs" in tribal groups to
see if there are "significant differences," but that it might not
be possible.
23 December 1970 COR2: Letter to Neel from Dr. Joseph E.
Jackson, dated 23 December 1970, cc'ed to Chagnon (4 pages). In
this letter Jackson states that he is sending them a first draft
protocol (see DOC2) for the trivalent live virus vaccine study.
He discusses a number of issues in relation to that, such as
observing and recording reactions. He discusses some of Dow's
reservations about the project in the second half of the letter,
such as whether the Yanomama selected would be appropriate
subjects who were not already measles-immune (he mostly seems
concerned about their ability to control test conditions).
30 December 1970 COR3: Letter to Jackson from Neel, dated 30
December 1970 (1 page). This is Neel's tentative rejection of
the Dow project. He gives several reasons why he thinks the team
may not be able to do the work, but in the end it comes down to
his own crowded research schedule.
30 December 1970 COR59: Letter to Dr. Joseph E. Jackson from
Neel, dated 30 December 1970 (1 page). Neel declines to
participate in the triple vaccine study (this appears to be the
same document as COR3).
1971:
[1971] DOC72: A collection of receipts and reimbursement
requests for the 1971 expedition (8 pages).
30 December 1970 COR110: Letter to Neel from Chagnon, dated 3
January 1971 (1 page). Written "in-flight," notes on the
schedule and personnel for a subsequent research expedition.
6 January 1971 COR4: Letter to Neel from Dr. J.E. Jackson,
dated 6 January 1971 (1 page). This letter basically terminates
the proposed project and gives some reasons for that termination.
6 January 1971 COR60: Letter to Neel from Jackson, dated 6
January 1971 (1 page). In it Jackson gives his own views on the
project (this appears to be the same document as COR4).
6 June 1971 COR111: A handwritten letter to Neel from Chagnon,
dated 6 June 1971 (2 pages). More field details.
1972:
[1972-3] DOC87: a small handwritten note of a list of people,
but the purpose of the note is hard to discern because of poor
photocopying. It is dated "For 1972-73".
[1972?] DOC88: two pages of notes for research plans (probably
1972 given provenance to COR172 and DOC89) (2 pages).
Handwritten notes on different research assistants and work
plans.
11 January 1972 COR172 Neel to Ward, Spielman, Migliazza, Li,
Sing, and Heuch (Memorandum, 1 page). Introduces DOC 89 to them.
15 January 1972 DOC89: Document entitled "Prospectus for use of
Indian data," dated 15 January 1972 (2 pages). Discusses a
number of plans for using gathered data.
26 February 1972 COR117: Handwritten letter to Neel from
Chagnon, dated 26 February 1972 (2 pages). More on his plans for
research.
7 March 1972 COR118: Handwritten letter to Neel from Chagnon,
dated 7 March 1972 (1 page). This is an air-letter that may be
the enclosure to DOC29, discussing details of current fieldwork.
17 March 1972 COR114: Handwritten letter to Neel from Chagnon,
dated 17 March 1972 (1 page). More miscellany about field
matters.
21 March 1972 COR113: Letter to Chagnon from Neel, dated 21
March 1972 (2 pages). Discussion of research relations and field
matters.
21 March 1972 COR112: Letter to Chagnon from Neel, dated 21
March 1972 (1 page). Discussion of good and bad blood samples.
17 April 1972 COR116: Letter to Neel from Chagnon, dated 17
April 1972 (9 pages). An extensive account of Chagnon's work and
frustrations in the field, lots of interesting details.
23 May 1972 COR115: Letter to Neel, Ward, M. Levin, and K Weiss
from Chagnon, dated 23 May 1972 (1 page, apparently, no signature
at the end). An overview and assessment of ongoing research.
1974:
29 July 1974 DOC79: handwritten document entitled "List of
Cluster Assignments," dated 29 July 1974 (2 pages). Has a number
of "cluster" names and affiliated villages. Does not look like
Neel's writing, but other than that there are no clues as to the
author.
1975:
11 August 1975 COR7: Letter to Dr. Donald Coohan, Chief,
Division of Communicable Diseases, Michigan Department of Health,
from Neel, dated 11 August 1975 (1 page). In it Neel talks about
the use of vaccines as "the entr‚e. . . to a large group of
somewhat (justifiably) suspicious and reluctant subjects."
1976:
8 November 1976 COR171:Neel to Dr. Richard "Ryk" Ward, Child
Development and Retardation Center, University of Washington.
Discusses a manuscript Ward sent him and suggests radical
changes.
Undated:
COR108: A handwritten note or letter that is partially obscured,
from Chagnon, date unclear (possibly 1970), but in provenance to
COR107 and COR109 (1 page). Talking about Neel coming to Ocamo.
DOC10: a small handwritten note that has no date and no
letterhead, and appears to be signed by Layrisse (1 page). It
merely says "[a]gree bring 2000 immunizing doses measles
vaccine." (in provenance with early 1968 materials).
DOC12: Undated, unattributed article that is in provenance to
COR29, and describes the work of the Brother's Brother
Foundation.
DOC14: a handwritten table entitled "Ocamo Follow-up," undated (1
page). There are numbered individuals, dates with numbers
beneath them, and at the bottom a notation: "Mix of previous
measles, g.g. inj., vaccination, mild measles."
DOC20: Article by Centerwall, with discussions, undated and
source unknown (10 pages). A number of discussions about
diseases among American Indians.
DOC23: Table on "Absorption Tests" undated but enclosed with
COR89 (1 page).
DOC24: two tables that were enclosed with COR90 (2 pages).
DOC25: an accounting of some of the 1968 expedition's expenses (1
page).
DOC26: Reimbursement receipt to Neel from funds advanced to
Chagnon (1 page).
DOC29: an air-mail envelope addressed to Neel from Chagnon with a
mail date of 14 March (in provenance with COR113).
DOC30: Cryptic hand-written list that is difficult to decipher,
no date (1 page). In provenance with COR114.
DOC31: Two drafts of a paper by Neel entitled "Ethical Issues
Resulting from Prenatal Diagnosis, undated (50 pages, some typed,
some short notes). Discussion of his ethical stance on research
and "eugenic" issues.
DOC34: handwritten draft for DOC31, undated (34 pages).
DOC35: Draft of paper entitled "The Genetic Structure of a Tribal
Population, The Yanomama Indians, Eleven Blood Group Systems and
the ABH-Le Secretor Traits," not dated (14 pages). A paper co-
written with Gershowitz, the Layrisses, Chagnon, and Ayres, notes
the support of "U.S. Atomic Energy Comm. Grant AT(11-1)-1552.
DOC38: small handwritten note with no attribution and no dates,
in provenance with DOC37 and COR120 (1 page). A number of almost
unreadable scribbles that needs to be examined more carefully.
DOC43: Table entitled "Microneutralization Tests with Coxsackie B
Viruses," undated (1 page). This is the enclosure for COR126.
DOC45: Draft of paper "Ethical Issues Resulting from Prenatal
Diagnosis," by Neel, undated (18 pages). This appears to be
either the final draft or the working presentation copy.
DOC46: Oversized handwritten tables entitled "C7 Antibody titers"
and "HI antibody titers" undated and unattributed (10 pages). A
very lengthy list of all the major diseases and titers by subject
#.
DOC47: small handwritten note entitled "Kaufman and Ajello,"
undated and unattributed (1 page). A list of fungal diseases
with a check mark at the bottom.
DOC49: handwritten list of numbers with no explanation, undated
(in provenance with COR142 and COR28) (3 pages).
DOC50: Cryptic partial table, handwritten, no date (2 pages). At
the top is a sentence that appears to be partial, from a
preceding page that is not with these two. It reads "of those
not vaccinated by Roche." The list has two headings: "1) with
measles" and "2) without measles." There is also a column headed
"antibody status" and most of the subject numbers have no status.
DOC55: several handwritten pages (in Spanish?) regarding
vaccinations (5 pages). Difficult to decipher, but possible
Roche's notes? In provenance with 1968 measles materials.
DOC57: Cryptic handwritten note without date or attribution (1
page). Indicates vaccine given at Mavacca in two lots.
DOC58: Handwritten note labeled "Dr. Jackson - P.D> - 20 March"
without date (1 page). Talks about globulin and has notes on
searching for lot number and other things.
DOC59: Map and another cryptic note, both undated and
unattributed (2 pages). Map shows rivers and movement of
multiple diseases. Note page appears to deal with temperatures
but a second page companion to it appears to be missing.
DOC61: Handwritten note entitled "Cows at Ocamo", undated and
unattributed (1 page). Talks about purchases and presence of
cows at Ocamo.
DOC63: some handwritten notes and a table that are in provenance
with COR 143, undated (2 pages). These may be Neel's notes for
inclusion of data into the AJE article.
DOC65: a collection of long tables on temperatures and other
information on the epidemic, undated (6 pages). Discusses
temperatures and other symptoms.
DOC66: handwritten table on measles tests "after vaccination and
after measles," undated (1 page). Lists titers from different
villages.
DOC67: a treatment of Neel's Science article by Dr. Philip
Ashmole (see COR145 and 146), undated (7 pages). A summary of
Neel's arguments about evolution, population, and "tribal life."
Emphasizes a number of elements, such as warfare.
DOC68: Referee's comments for Neel's Science article (6 pages).
One referee is very critical of the article from an
anthropological stance, the other goes into great length on each
section of the manuscript and its faults. The first basically
rejects the article, the second advocates heavy revisions.
DOC69: small handwritten note signed "RTD," undated (1 page). It
appears to refer to another document (see DOC70) which it is in
provenance with, and talks about changing some elements of it.
DOC73: A document in Spanish (set aside for further examination),
undated and unattributed, on the letterhead of the Venezuelan
Ministry of Justice.
DOC76: Document entitled "Study of Disease Prevalents and Genetic
Variation in the Wapishana Indians of Guyana," no submission
date, includes the names of Neel, Oliver, and Richard S. Spielman
as primary investigators (8 pages). Outlines a plan to the
National Scientific Research Council of Guyana to study diseases
and populations being acculturated.
DOC77: Handwritten questions and notes entitled "Questions" with
no date or attribution (2 pages). Discusses admixture and
genetic analysis.
DOC78: A collection of handwritten tables and accompanying map on
allele frequency and admixture, no date or attribution (8 pages).
Unclear just when this was written or what it refers to
specifically.
DOC80: Collection of handwritten data tables on alleles, no date
or attribution (7 pages). More tables on various sorts of
alleles and aspects of frequency, etc.
DOC81: Fragment of manuscript and several tables of information
on Yanomama villages (5 pages). The manuscript page talks about
defining village clusters, and the accompanying tables
(apparently prepared by "Tanis") lists village numbers, size, and
sector. Given the sampling dates this had to be written after
1971.
DOC82: Collection of hand-written notes of village designations
and information, all undated (8 pages). Confusing group of notes
on village numbers and names.
DOC83: Typed tables labeled "Village Designations - Yanomama,"
not dated or signed (3 pages). A clean, orderly copy of village
names and number designations.
DOC85: Map entitled only "Altos Orinocos" with the name "James P.
Barker Jr." in the lower right-hand corner (1 page copied into 8
sections). A thorough but undated map of the area, with a number
of scribbled comments on different events and landmarks.
DOC90: handwritten document entitled "Short list of Indian
Projects," undated (5 pages). A number of ideas for using
gathered data.
DOC91: a series of handwritten notes from meetings and off-the-
cuff brainstorming, most undated but some dated between 1966-1968
(36 pages). A variety of materials that are hard to separate,
many are just a few scribbled lines, others cryptic lists, but
some discuss his ideas and goals in greater detail, especially
those that are dated.
DOC93: Paper entitled "Provisional Outline Prepared for the Use
of the Staff of the WHO Reference Serum Bank at Yale University,"
by John R. Paul. M.D., Director, undated (31 pages). A detailed
discussion of procedures and conditions at the Bank. Found in
one of Neel's miscellaneous files.
DOC94: Paper entitled "Personal Fierceness and Headmen in
Yanomamo Disputes," by Napoleon A. Chagnon, an undated draft for
presentation at the 1968 AAA Meetings (34 pages). Chagnon's
discussion of a number of separate incidents of disputes and how
they were dealt with (or not) by headmen and the significance of
this for Yanomami social organization and adaptation.
PART III: ANNOTATED SUMMARY OF JAMES NEEL'S FIELD JOURNAL OF
1968 AEC EXPEDITION TO YANOMAMI
SECTION I. PRE-FIELD ACTIVITIES AND CONSULTATIONS
(Ms. begins p. 35)
page date
35 6(?) Jan List of flights, airstrips and sizes of planes needed:
1)Caracas-Cushime (big);
2)Cushime-Santa Maria (small shuttle);
3) +/- ? Flights, Santa Maria-Caracas;
4)Santa Maria-Ocamo (big),
?Cuchime-Esmeralda-Ocamo (small);
5) +/- 5 flights, Ocamo-Caracas (small);
6)Esmeralda-Caracas (big);
7) Emeralda-Caracas (big)
36 7 Jan "In a sense, the expedition is now launched"...
at 6(?) PM off for Washington...attending a
Workshop on epidemiological Surveys sponsored by
the Div. Med. Sci. Of the N.R.C.. Hopefully, some
of this will be pertinent to our current program..."
37 8 Jan EPIDEMIOLOGICAL SURVEYS
(selected items from N's notes on Wash. Conference)
1. Objectives of genetic studies of pop[ula?]:
numbered points include 2)Find new variants;
4)disease connections
9 Jan 2. Sample collection techniques, practical
38 pointers on taking genealogies [end exerpts from
conference notes]
39 OUTLINE OF AEC APPLICATION (proposal for renewal of
Neel's current grant, due in March shortly after
planned return). Exerpts from Neel's outline:
"III. Next steps with Indians. No longer descriptive.
Testing ground for 1)Mean heterogeneity and relations
of genetic taxonomy; 2) Vital statistics; 3) gene
flow; 4) Hi(?)tability estimates; 5)Man-pathogen
interaction; 6) Attributes of leadership (and
reproduction)" (TT boldface)
40 notes for changes in text of USNC/IBP Integrated
Program: add Layrisse, J. Wilbert as Directors/
Coordinators
41 11 Jan Flight to NYC rendezvous with Chagnon and Centerwall
Take off for Caracas.
"This one is about 2x as complicated as the last, and
about 10x as complicated as that first trip into the
Xavante in 1962. If we are successful--even 70%--
maybe even 80%--will think we have earned a bonus,
low-pressure trip of some type."
12 Jan CARACAS. Conference at IVIC: Layrisse, Arends, Chagnon,
42 Migliazza, Centerwall, Neel: Arrange US Air Force
flight asistance thru US Embassy; deal with "French
Invasion" of Levi-Strauss students, possibly L-S
himself, to same Yanomami villages where they plan to
work (Neel not happy about this).
43 Program, itinerary for blood, biologicals sampling:
"regarding Yanomami, the plan remains u |