This folder contains correspondence and other documents relating to Edison's membership in, and activities on behalf of, social clubs, professional societies, political groups, and civic and charitable organizations. Many of the letters contain a request for some kind of support. Several ask for permission to use Edison's name in connection with their cause. Among the items for 1919 are letters pertaining to Edison's acceptance of honorary positions in the American Junior Naval & Marine Scout, Inc.; the Franklin Institute of Philadelphia; the General Electric Apprentice Training System Alumni Assn.; and the National Inland Waterways Assn. Also included are letters concerning Edison's involvement with the Japan Society of New York City and his attendance at the presentation of the Edison Medal to Benjamin G. Lamme by the American Institute of Electrical Engineers. In addition, there is correspondence regarding organizations from which Edison decided to withdraw such as the American Philosophical Society and the American Protective Tariff League.

Less than 20 percent of the documents have been selected. The material not selected includes unsolicited correspondence from organizations of inventors, women, electrochemists, engineers, farmers, aviation enthusiasts, and those with political agendas both for and against U.S. ratification of the Treaty of Versailles and the creation of the League of Nations. Some of these letters bear routine Edison marginalia such as "get me out" or "say impossible." Also not selected are routine responses stating that Edison away in Florida or busy with his experiments, along with numerous printed circulars, tickets, menus, membership cards, lists, and forms.