Two silver vases, undated

The Ingeborg Nystul papers, 1869-1972 and undated, has been arranged in five series: Biographical, Correspondence, Photographs, Printed Materials and Drawings, and Artifacts.

The Biographical series contains materials probably collected by Nystul's sister, Anna. This series includes a certificate from the Immanuel Deaconess Institute marking 50 years of service and a memorial book and other ephemera from Nystul's funeral (1972), as well as letters and news clippings about Nystul and other missionaries.

The Correspondence series contains letters from Nystul to her sister. Topics discussed in these letters include Nystul's experiences as a missionary in China, her travels in China and abroad, and political and military turmoil in China at the time. Also included is a folder of miscellaneous correspondence and clippings.

The Photographs series contains thirteen photograph albums, loose photographs, mounted prints, and postcards. The first folder in the series includes a mixture of greeting cards, memorial cards, and photographs. These items were originally stored separately in a small red box. The photograph albums document Nystul's life in Norway, China, and the United States. The photographs capture Nystul's family life as well as her missionary work. Many of the photographs have been labeled, presumably by Nystul. There is also an oversize (14" x 20") portrait of Ingeborg as a young woman [XOPF-086/1]. The loose photographs are varied in terms of subject matter. Some of the images appear to have been sent to Nystul throughout her life and include portraits of family members and friends. Some of the loose photographs appear to have been removed from the albums.

The Printed Materials and Drawings series consists of drawings and watercolors, many of which were created by students in the mission schools. Many of the items are Bible verses printed in Chinese characters, including two calendars. Also included in this series is a photocopy of the title page of a book, "Fifty Years in the Church of Rome". The book has been separated and is now cataloged in Special Collections.

The Artifacts series consists of textiles and three-dimensional objects, many acquired as gifts and souvenirs. The textiles include wall hangings, many with Chinese characters, some of which are Bible verses. In addition, there are numerous pieces of fabric and cloth of various colors and designs. This series also includes a purse possibly made of seaweed. Most of the items appear to have been collected while Ingeborg lived in China. The series contains several vases, commemorative plaques, scrolls, and other items.