Abstract The Vontella Hess Buchholz Kimball papers (1931-1971) consist of correspondence, notebooks, and newspaper clippings concerning her activities as national education director of a large cosmetic firm and her interest in the Middle East. Vontella (1906-1971) was an active and independent woman with a desire to travel. She often lectured on charm and beauty at business and social clubs, and was also in demand as a speaker on traditional Arab attire and jewelry.