Wilhelm Weitling (1808-1871) was a German-born tailor, inventor and editor. In Germany he worked as a journeyman tailor and was a prominent socialist agitator. After emigrating to the U.S. in 1848, he organized an Arbeiterbund or "Workingmen's League" for skilled craftsmen and established a community in Iowa based on his socio-economic theories. He also was the founder and editor of Die Republik der Arbeiter in New York City from 1850 to 1855.

Collection consists of Weitling's correspondence, writings, patents and plans, memorabilia, and miscellaneous papers. Correspondence, 1844-1903, contains letters to and from members of the Weitling family, and correspondence and papers relating to the colonies of the Workingmen's League. Patents and plans, 1861-1868, are for improvements to the sewing machine. Writings include a journal, 1855-1869, and papers on his theories of astronomy. Also, memorabilia, newsclippings and miscellaneous items.