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Start Over Subject Quakers -- Pennsylvania -- Chester County Subject Quakers -- Social life and customs Creator Swarthmore College

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Kent-Barnard Family Papers, 1785/1928 (inclusive)

Extent:
3 linear ft. (6 boxes)
Abstract:
Daniel Kent, emigrated to Chester County, Pa. from Ireland, in 1785. He joined the Society of Friends (Quakers) in 1790, and married Esther Hawley in 1791. Their great-grandson Henry Simmons Kent (1833-1906) was active in the establishment of Swarthmore Monthly Meeting and the Borough of Swarthmore, Pennsylvania. The collection includes material used by Daniels' great-granddaughter Ella Kent Barnard in preparation for the writing of three books. Among these materials are genealogical charts and data, research correspondence, and original letters and documents. Notable among the latter is the correspondence between Daniel Kent and his parents, William and Ann Kent. Collection also includes diaries and journals. A manuscript entitled "The Rise of Swarthmore," by Isabella Tyson, describes the meeting of Friends in the home of her parents to discuss plans for the establishment of the College.

Held at: Friends Historical Library of Swarthmore College [Contact Us]

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Norman Walton Swayne Family Papers, 1733-1987 (inclusive)

Extent:
3 linear ft. (7 boxes (plus oversize material))
Abstract:
The Swayne family were Quakers of southern Chester County, Pennsylvania. Caleb Swayne was a farmer and tanner, and his son, Benjamin, also operated a tan yard and conducted a school for boys, the London Grove Boarding School. Evan Thomas Swayne also taught at London Grove, but moved to the Eaton Institute, a boarding school for girls in Kennett, after 1865. His son, Edward Swayne, had a greenhouse business and wrote poetry. Edward's sister, Anna Belle, was a photographer before her marriage to Albert Taylor Jackson. Edward's son, Norman Walton Swayne, attended Swarthmore College and then taught at the George School; he was also the family genealogist. The collection includes genealogical research, correspondence, poetry and other writings, commonplace books, deeds and financial records, and miscellaneous materials. Of particular interest is the journal of Benjamin Swayne of London Grove, the school master's records of Evan Thomas Swayne, the poetical exchange between Edward Swayne...(see more)

Held at: Friends Historical Library of Swarthmore College [Contact Us]