African-American landlady, laboratory supervisor, actress, and volunteer. Elizabeth Tate and her husband opened their house to African-American male student boarders in Iowa City, Iowa, in the 1930s at a time when African-American students were not allowed to live in University of Iowa housing. In 1939 they opened the Tate Arms boarding house on So. Dubuque St. and operated the residence for more than 30 years. In addition, Tate worked at the University of Iowa's cardiovascular laboratory for 22 years, first as a clinical technician and later as an office supervisor.
The couple enjoyed travelling and toured the United States, Europe, South America, and the Soviet Union. Tate had an avid interest in acting and shared that activity with her son, Dennis, a professional actor. She was a charter member of the Iowa City Community Theater and was frequently asked to perform in university productions as well.
In retirement she spent many hours as a volunteer at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics and as a docent at the university's Old Capitol building.
From the description of Papers of Elizabeth (Bettye) Crawford Tate, 1932-1996. (University of Iowa Libraries). WorldCat record id: 233121186
