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The Life, Studies, and Works of Benjamin West, Esq., by John Galt, in extra-illustrated form, 1792-1820 (bulk) 1682-1844 (inclusive)

Extent:
1.2 linear feet (; 3 boxes; 9 flat files)
Abstract:
In 1816 and 1820, Scottish author John Galt produced a two-volume biography of Benjamin West entitled The Life, Works, and Studies of Benjamin West, Esq. This collection consists of pages from seven disbound extra-illustrated volumes of Galt's book comprising numerous original letters to and from Benjamin West, some pieces of original art by West, and many other engravings, documents, and prints.

Held at: Historical Society of Pennsylvania [Contact Us]

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Montgomery, Scott, and Wheeler families papers, 1675-2018, bulk 1840-1995

Extent:
60.6 linear feet (; 103 boxes, 142 volumes, 11 flat files)
Abstract:
This collection from the Montgomery, Scott, and Wheeler families, spanning 60 linear feet, documents the history of Ardrossan, an estate in Villanova, Pennsylvania -- one of the largest on Philadelphia's Main Line -- and its residents over the course of more than two centuries. In 1911, local investment banker Colonel Robert Leaming Montgomery (1879-1949) hired Horace Trumbauer to design the residence on the family's 800-acre plot, complete with a dairy farm and horse stables. The son of William Woodrow Montgomery and Rebecca Waln Leaming, Robert L. Montgomery would go onto to establish what is now the investment firm of Janney Montgomery Scott. He married Charlotte Hope Binney Tyler (1881-1970) in 1902, and the couple had four children: Helen Hope, Mary Binney, Robert Alexander, and Charlotte Ives. Their eldest daughter, Helen Hope Montgomery (1904-1995), became well known in Philadelphia's social circles, and she went on to marry Edgar Scott (1899-1995), grandson of Thomas A....(see more)

Held at: Historical Society of Pennsylvania [Contact Us]

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John Hughes Memorandum Book, 1704-1762

Extent:
0.08 linear feet (; 1 volume)
Abstract:
John Hughes was a yeoman from Wales who came with his family to Pennsylvania in 1698. He was among the first to settle in Gwynedd in what is now Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. Hughes was a member of the Society of Friends and opened his house to worshipers until a meeting house was built. He had three children with his first wife, Martha Caimot, and two with his second wife, Ellen. He moved to Exeter, Berks County in 1731 with his son Ellis and grandson John and died there in 1736. John Hughes's memorandum book contains the records of some of his business affairs, including accounts of goods given out on credit, goods received, and money paid and received. The most substantive portions of the volume consist of entries made during conferences held in Easton, Pennsylvania, between Native Americans and Pennsylvanians during July and November 1756. The volume also includes records for travel expenses incurred in April 1757. These later entries, written after Hughes death, were made by...(see more)

Held at: Historical Society of Pennsylvania [Contact Us]

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Johannes Kelpius collection of German hymns, 1707-1772

Extent:
0.15 linear feet ( (1 volume))
Abstract:
This collection contains one volume of German hymns hand-written by Johannes Kelpius, known as the hermit of the Wissahickon; also included are hymns by Johann Gottfried Seelig, Bernhard Kasten, and others.

Held at: Historical Society of Pennsylvania [Contact Us]

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Germantown (Philadelphia, Pa.) general court records, 1691-1707 (inclusive)

Extent:
0.2 linear feet (; 2 volumes)
Abstract:
This collection contains the records of the Germantown (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) town council or General Court and the civil court or Court of Record, dating from 1691 to 1707. The matters addressed by these court sessions include property disputes and transfers, apprenticeships, deeds of sale for goods and land, assault and battery, violations of liquor laws, and other matters.

Held at: Historical Society of Pennsylvania [Contact Us]

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William Redwood account books, 1775-1790 (bulk) 1749-1814 (bulk 1775-1790) (inclusive)

Extent:
1.25 linear feet (; 10 volumes)
Abstract:
William Redwood, son of Abraham Redwood and his second wife Patience Phillips, was born in 1726 in Newport, Rhode Island. There he worked for a number of years as a merchant in partnership with Elias Bland. Redwood moved to Philadelphia 1772 where he continued business. From 1782 to 1787, Redwood lived at and helped maintain the family's plantation on the island of Antigua in the West Indies. This collection consists of ten account books (ledgers, journals, and daybooks) associated with Redwood. Most of them document his work in Philadelphia; however two volumes contain information on his Newport business and partnership, and two contain detailed financial records concerning the family's Antigua plantation.

Held at: Historical Society of Pennsylvania [Contact Us]

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Gilbert And Joseph Cope genealogical research materials, 1908-1968 (bulk) 1729-1979 (inclusive)

Extent:
22.4 linear feet (; 49 boxes, 11 volumes)
Abstract:
Gilbert Cope (1840-1928) was a well-known Quaker genealogist and local historian who compiled comprehensive genealogical records of Pennsylvania families. Cope was one of the founders of the Chester County Historical Society and served it as secretary, director, and honorary director. He was a member of the Friends’ Historical Association and a corresponding member of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania and the New England Historic Genealogical Society. In 1912, he was elected an honorary member of the Genealogical Society of Pennsylvania and became one of its honorary vice presidents in 1924. Additionally, he served as president of the Pennsylvania Federation of Historical Societies from 1911 to 1912, overseeing 75 historical organizations in Pennsylvania. Gilbert’s son Joseph Cope continued his father’s work, augmenting the Cope family’s genealogy and those of other prominent families. Gilbert Cope’s collections were acquired by the Historical Society of Pennsylvania and the...(see more)

Held at: Historical Society of Pennsylvania [Contact Us]

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Smith family papers, 1680-1880 (bulk) 1660-1941 (inclusive)

Extent:
19.0 linear feet (, 14 boxes, 82 volumes)
Abstract:
The Smith family papers contain materials compiled and authored by John Jay Smith as well as several of his descendants. John Jay Smith (1798-1881) was librarian of the Library Company of Philadelphia from 1829 to 1851 and founder of Laurel Hill Cemetery. As a member of an influential Quaker family, Smith was the descendant of several prominent early Philadelphians including James Logan and Richard Hill. Much of the collection consists of deeds and other land transactions as well as correspondence and diaries originating with these ancestors. Smith’s own papers document his wide range of interests as well as his personal and professional relationships through correspondence, financial records, and memorabilia. The collection also contains materials originating from the families of two of Smith’s sons: Lloyd Pearsall Smith (1822-1886) and Horace John Smith (1832-1906). This collection is particularly rich in documenting the history of two prominent Philadelphia institutions, the...(see more)

Held at: Historical Society of Pennsylvania [Contact Us]

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Albert Cook Myers Historical Collection: William Penn papers, 1645-1960 (inclusive)

Extent:
81.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Albert Cook Myers (1874-1960) was a Pennsylvania historian, who dedicated his life’s work to the identification, study and organization of William Penn’s published writings and personal papers. Beginning in 1910, after securing an endorsement from the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, he set out to publish: “The Complete Works of William Penn.” All told, Myers devoted fifty years of his life to this project. Though his publication goals were never realized, he assembled a massive and notable body of information about William Penn. To complete his studies, Myers travelled abroad and throughout the United States. As a result of his efforts, he came to be regarded as an expert on the topic and often spoke publicly on the life and times of William Penn. The Albert Cook Myers research collection of William Penn materials contains the information gathered by Myers in his pursuit to thoroughly research and publish a volume documenting the complete writings of William Penn. Researchers...(see more)

Held at: Chester County Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Buffington–Marshall papers, 1707-1876 (inclusive)

Extent:
3.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The manuscripts in the collection cover the years 1707 to 1876. The bulk of the collection is connected to two families, Buffington and Marshall. Buffington family manuscripts begin with emigrant Richard Buffington (d. 1747/8). He was married three times and his children included Ann, Ruth, Richard (d. 1741, married Phebe Grubb), Thomas, William, John, Hannah, Mary, Elizabeth, Lydia, Abigail, Joseph, and Alice. The Marshall family manuscripts originated from the family of emigrant Abraham Marshall (1669-1767) and his wife, Mary Hunt Marshall (d. 1769). Topics include: farming, botany, legal system, politics and elections, the poor, education, medicine, crime (includes murder, fornication and bastardy cases, etc.), slavery, etc.

Held at: Chester County Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Colonel Richard Thomas papers, 1741-1919 (inclusive)

Extent:
1.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Richard Thomas (1744-1832) was a Revolutionary War colonel and a politician. He served in the Revolutionary War in the 5th Battalion Association despite his Quaker faith and served as an Assembly man from 1796 to 1790, as Pennsylvania Senator from 1790 to 1794, and as Congressman from 1794 to 1798. The collection dates from 1741 to 1919 with the bulk of materials dating from 1741 to 1857. The materials in the collection document the history of Chester County and the United States as well as the personal side of the Thomas family.

Held at: Chester County Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Taylor, Harris, Roman, Frazer, and Smith families papers, 1683-1980 (inclusive)

Extent:
8.0 boxes
Abstract:
The families in the Taylor, Harris, Roman, Frazer, and Smith family papers, 1633 to 1980 (bulk 1685 to 1851) are all related by the marriage of Marianne Smith to Dr. Stephen Harris on April 14, 1833. Both sides of the lineage represented in this collection immigrated to Pennsylvania because of religious persecution in England and Ireland. As Presbyterians and Quakers, they no longer wished to live under a series of laws which forced non-Anglicans out of public office, schools and the church as well as prohibiting meetings for non-Anglican worship. These newcomers contributed to the establishment of the government and religious expression in early Chester County. The documents, covering topics such as land surveying, Native Americans, the Revolutionary War, astronomy, publishing, the iron industry, and religious persecution, provide a broad picture of early Chester County and its residents as they interacted with each other at home and in Philadelphia through business, religious, and...(see more)

Held at: Chester County Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Read family papers, 1792-1896 (bulk) 1736-1896 (inclusive)

Extent:
70.0 linear feet and
Abstract:
The Read family consistently played an important role in American government and politics from the time that George Read, a Delaware resident, signed the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Throughout the 17th to 19th centuries, the Reads served as lawyers, judges, politicians, generals, consul-generals and foreign ministers. This collection contains the papers of four generations of the Read family of Philadelphia, consisting of John Read, Judge John Meredith Read, General John Meredith Read, and Harmon Pumpelly Read. The materials date from 1736 to 1896, with the bulk dating from 1792 to 1896, and include extensive correspondence, bills and receipts, genealogical notes, legal documents, newspaper clippings, photographs, scrapbooks and ephemera. The majority of the collection consists of General John Meredith Read’s papers relating to his family history and genealogy, correspondence, and political materials. The collection is particularly valuable in illustrating...(see more)

Held at: Library Company of Philadelphia [Contact Us]

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Rush family papers, 1748-1876 (inclusive)

Extent:
34.5 linear feet
Abstract:
The Rush Family papers includes material from Benjamin Rush, physician, social activist, educator, writer and patriot; his brother Jacob Rush, lawyer, Supreme Court judge, and patriot; and Benjamin’s son James Rush, physician and Treasurer of the United States Mint. These American men were “strong characters, zealous patriots during the stirring period in which they lived, tenacious of their convictions and of the high standard of individual duty which they set for others, and typified in themselves,” (Richards, page 53). The bulk of the collection is the papers of Dr. Benjamin Rush and his son Dr. James Rush. Judge Jacob, John, Richard and William are represented, but to a much lesser degree. The other Rush family members are represented in a very limited manner. The collection contains correspondence; financial records; medical notes, lectures, and case histories; writings regarding medicine, politics, and the judicial system; and observations on colonial Philadelphia, the...(see more)

Held at: Library Company of Philadelphia [Contact Us]

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Library Company of Philadelphia Shareholders records, 1732-2007 (inclusive)

Extent:
12.0 volumes
Abstract:
In 1731, Benjamin Franklin and a number of his fellow members of the Junto founded the Library Company of Philadelphia, in order to provide its members access to books that they could not afford to purchase individually, but could afford to purchase collectively. Fifty subscribers invested forty shillings each and promised to pay ten shillings a year thereafter to buy books and maintain a shareholder's library. Thus "the Mother of all American Subscription Libraries" was established. Over the years, the Library Company continues to be supported by its members who participate in a centuries-old tradition by becoming shareholders and therefore allowing the Library Company of Philadelphia to continue serving the public, free of charge. This collection consists of twelve volumes of shareholders records dating from 1742 to 2007. The volumes, Record Books A to L, document share purchases and transfers of shares. Entries include date, name of member, and occasionally brief notes on...(see more)

Held at: Library Company of Philadelphia [Contact Us]

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Allen Family Papers, 1700-1954 (inclusive)

Extent:
2 linear ft. (4 boxes)
Abstract:
Contains the papers of the Allen Family, a Quaker family of Philadelphia and Delaware County, Pennsylvania, which traced its ancestry back to one of William Penn's commissioners. Includes papers relating to the Allen and related Breidenhart, Casdorp, Gibbons, Hubley, Jacobs, Matlack, and Samuel families. The Allen family papers contain extensive genealogical material, family correspondence, journals and memorials which provide excellent source material on Quaker family life in the 19th century in the Philadelphia area. Of particular interest are letters from Charles and Rebecca Allen to their children, several of whom were educated at Westtown School.

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

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Ferris Family Papers, 1737-1940 (inclusive)

Extent:
15 linear ft. (36 boxes)
Abstract:
The collection contains correspondence, journals and other writings, business and legal papers, and miscellaneous items of the Ferris family of Wilmington, Delaware, a prominent Quaker family. Of particular note are the correspondence and writings of Benjamin Ferris concerning the Separation in the Society of Friends, as well as the journals and diaries of Anna M. Ferris, David Ferris, Matilda Ferris, Benjamin Ferris, and Henry Ferris. Correspondents include William Lloyd Garrison, William Gibbons, Isaac T. Hopper, Joseph Bringhurst, Mary Gibbons, William Poole, Mary Biddle, Joseph Rakestraw, Halliday Jackson, and John Jackson. This collection includes a great variety of family correspondence that reveals much about the life of a Quaker family in Wilmington and of the reform activities of members of the Society of Friends.

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

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Lamb-Booth-Miller Family Papers, 1709-1959 (inclusive)

Extent:
5 linear ft. (10 boxes)
Abstract:
William Booth married Elizabeth M. Broomall in 1841. Their son, George M. Booth, was born in 1851 and married Ellen Miller, daughter of Lewis and Ann McIlvaine Miller in 1876. Their daughter, Elizabeth Martin Booth, married Robert Emerson Lamb of Baltimore in 1908 at Chester, Pa. The collection contains correspondence (1821-1963), diaries and journals (1833-1905), albums, legal and financial papers, photographs, genealogical and biographical materials, and miscellaneous memorabilia of the Lamb, Booth, Miller, and related families primarily of Delaware County, Pennsylvania. Includes correspondence of Sarah B. Miller while she was travelling in Europe in 1846, William and Elizabeth M. Booth, 1833-1882, Sarah B. Flitcraft, 1856-1917, Isaac L. and Clara B. Miller, 1862-1916, George M. and Ellen M. Booth, 1864-1914, Robert E. and Elizabeth B. Lamb, James G. Lamb, 1917 - 1963, and others. Also of interest are the European travel journals of Sarah L. Miller (1846) and Isaac L. and Clara B....(see more)

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

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Palmer Genealogical Manuscript and Deeds, 1722-1966 [bulk 1898} (inclusive)

Extent:
0.5 linear ft. (1 box)
Abstract:
The Palmer family was a Quaker family descended from John and Christian Palmer, who settled in Bucks County, Pennsylvania., in 1683. Sarah M. Fell (1824-1911), who compiled the genealogy, was a Hicksite Quaker from Wilmington, Delaware, and a Palmer descendent. The collection contains a family genealogy compiled by Sarah Moore Fell (1822-1911) in 1898, pictures, and an accompanying index compiled in 1966. The collection also contains some Bucks County property records including deeds and legal papers

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

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Edith Verlenden Paschall Papers, 1736-1962 (inclusive) 1940-1962 (bulk)

Extent:
2 linear ft. (4 boxes)
Abstract:
Edith Verlenden Paschall (1881-1961) was a Quaker genealogist and historian from Delaware County, Pennsylvania. The collection contains correspondence, legal papers and marriage certificates (chiefly photocopies), wills, notes, miscellaneous memorabilia, and pictures, collected by Paschall and relating to the Paschall family and other Quaker families. Includes material relating to the history and settlement of Darby, Pa., the development of Darby Monthly Meeting, and historic houses and brickmaking in the Delaware Valley.

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

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Jenkins Family Papers, 1741-1877 (inclusive)

Extent:
0.5 linear ft. (1 box (17 folders))
Abstract:
The Jenkins family papers include journals, a letterbook, other miscellaneous correspondence and a variety of other material. Of particular note are the journals and copybook kept by Jabez Jenkins, a Quaker merchant. The documents from Canton were apparently assembled for his children after the death of their mother and contain parental advice on a variety of subjects. Another letter, written in 1741 from Sophia Hume to Madam Shettele, provides information about her attitude towards rationalism and other topics.

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

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George B. Jackson (George Bement) Family Papers, 1694-1986 (inclusive)

Extent:
2.5 linear ft. (6 boxes)
Abstract:
George B. Jackson, Swarthmore College Class of 1921, was a New York Quaker businessman. A member of New York Monthly Meeting, he was interested in family history and compiled the collection which contains farm daybooks of his great grandfather James M. Jackson of Quakertown and the memoirs of his grandfather, William Morris Jackson, Quaker businessman, reformer, and Trustee of Swarthmore College. The collection also contains genealogical information on the Jackson, Bacon, Chapin and Morris families, as well as personal correspondence and other papers.

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]

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Biddle family papers, 1747-2011 (inclusive)

Extent:
70.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Nicholas Biddle (1786-1844) was one of the most prominent men in early 19th century America, best known as President of the Second National Bank of the United States. Many of his family members were also prominent to their contemporaries and to history, including Nicholas's brother, Commodore James Biddle (1783-1848), who served in the Navy for decades and worked to open up trade with Asia. The Biddle family papers, 1747-2011, consist largely of original manuscript documents from a number of Biddle family members, notably Nicholas Biddle (1786-1844), Commodore James Biddle (1783-1848), Letitia Glenn Biddle (1864-1950), Charles J. Biddle (1890-1972) and Katharine Legendre Biddle (1893-1973), and Nicholas Biddle, Jr. (1917-2013). In addition, there are some secondary-source materials pertaining to the Biddle family and the administration of Andalusia, the family's ancestral home.

Held at: Andalusia Foundation [Contact Us]

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Delaware County Historical Society miscellaneous manuscripts, 1728-1997 (inclusive)

Extent:
134.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Delaware County was the first section of Pennsylvania to be settled by Europeans, specifically Swedes in 1643. It was in the city of Chester, the original county seat of Delaware County, that William Penn and the General Assembly of Pennsylvania adopted Penn's "Great Law of Pennsylvania," which granted the right to vote, citizenship, freedom of religion and trial by jury to all settlers. Located adjacent to Philadelphia, Delaware County's suburban population grew rapidly in the 19th and 20th centuries. The Delaware County Historical Society miscellaneous manuscripts, 1728-1997, consist of miscellaneous original manuscript and printed/ephemera materials relating to local people, organizations, and businesses in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. Types of materials include: ledgers, diaries, correspondence, ephemera, pamphlets, and scrapbooks.

Held at: Delaware County Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Reference collection, 1874-2000 (bulk) 1690-2010 (inclusive)

Extent:
86.0 linear feet
Abstract:
In the early part of the nineteenth century, Philadelphia City Council took action to protect the purity of public water. This involved the acquisition of property on the banks of the Schuylkill River in order to eliminate polluting waste that had previously been generated by various industrial sites along the river. The City’s newly acquired property was dedicated to the health and enjoyment of the citizens of Philadelphia, and became known as Fairmount Park. The Fairmount Park Commission (FPC) was established by Act of the Assembly, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, March 26, 1867. Over the course of this organization’s history (1867 to 2010) the FPC continued to acquire land for the people of Philadelphia, and operated with a single continuous mission: to preserve and protect its open space; provide opportunities for recreation; maintain the landscapes and structures, streams and woodlands that exist within the Fairmount Park System. This collection contains various materials that...(see more)

Held at: Fairmount Park Historic Resource Archives [Contact Us]

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Gloria Dei records, 1636-1927 (inclusive)

Extent:
14 manuscripts
Abstract:
Gloria Dei, founded by 17th century Swedish settlers, is Pennsylvania’s oldest congregation. The archives of Gloria Dei include journal entries, correspondence, financial records, vestry minutes, and records of marriages, births and deaths.

Held at: Gloria Dei Church (Philadelphia, Pa.) [Contact Us]

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Historic Fallsington, Inc. manuscript collection, 1729-1984 (inclusive)

Extent:
15.5 linear feet
Abstract:
Settled by English Quakers in the late 17th century, the village of Fallsington in Falls Township, Bucks County, Pennsylvania became significant as a religious, social and commercial center for the surrounding community. It served as a popular stopover point for travelers due to its location along several major transportation systems. Fallsington became the first historic district in Bucks County (1955) and was subsequently placed on the National Register of Historic Places (1971). The Historic Fallsington, Inc. manuscript collection includes the papers of numerous Fallsington families and individuals, as well as other materials that document the history of the village. Items include personal papers, account books and other financial papers, diaries, photographs, deeds, maps, and genealogy research.

Held at: Historic Fallsington, Inc. [Contact Us]

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Historic Langhorne Association local history collection, 1733-2012 (inclusive)

Extent:
18.33 linear feet
Abstract:
Settled by Quakers beginning in 1680, the small town of Langhorne in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, grew as an important transportation center between Trenton and Philadelphia due to its location at the intersection of major roads connecting the two cities. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the town, which served as a stop along the rail line, became a popular summer vacation destination for wealthy Philadelphians. The Historic Langhorne Association local history collection, 1733-2012, consists of various materials relating to local history topics in or around Langhorne, Pennsylvania, including families, individuals, businesses, organizations, and property. It includes four series: subject files, small collections, oral histories, and oversize materials.

Held at: Historic Langhorne Association [Contact Us]

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Horsham Preservation and Historical Association manuscript collection, 1684-1975 (inclusive)

Extent:
2.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Welsh Strawbridge (1878-1969) and his new wife Margaret E. Marhsall Strawbridge (1898-1969) moved to Graeme Park, the estate of colonial Governor Sir William Keith, in 1922. They raised thoroughbred horses on the land before donating it to Horsham Township, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania in 1958. The Horsham Preservation and Historical Association manuscript collection, 1684-1975, is comprised of Strawbridge family papers, township records, Graeme Park property records, and various other documents.

Held at: Horsham Preservation and Historical Association [Contact Us]

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Holme family papers, circa 1685-1920, 2008-2009

Extent:
0.83 linear feet
Abstract:
The Holme family in the United States can be traced to John Holme (1632-1702), who came to America in 1686 from England. The Holmesburg section of Philadelphia, PA, is named after the Holme family, who resided there until 1928. The Holme family papers, circa 1685-1920, 2008-2009, is a collection of some 200 digital scans of documents pertaining to the Holme and related families of the Holmesburg area of Northeast Philadelphia, as well as 55 physical documents and photographs. The digital files in the collection include scans of loose papers – receipts and financial accounts, deeds, petitions, letters, wills, indentures, legal papers, and various other notes and writings – as well as some maps, broadsides, newspapers, loose photographs, photograph albums, and bound volumes.

Held at: Historical Society of Frankford [Contact Us]

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Historical Society of Frankford deed collection, 1681-1936 (inclusive)

Extent:
8.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The Frankford neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is located in the lower northeast section of the city and is bordered by the Frankford Creek on the south, Castor Avenue on the west, Cheltenham Avenue on the north, and roughly the I-95 expressway on the east. Originally a village, Frankford was incorporated as a borough in 1800 and was later absorbed into the City of Philadelphia in the 1854 Philadelphia city/county consolidation. As of 2015, Frankford is a working-class neighborhood with a diverse population, including a large number of African Americans, Asian Americans, Polish Americans, Italian Americans, Hispanic Americans, and West Indian Americans. The Historical Society of Frankford deed collection, 1681-1936, consists of deeds, patents, indentures, and other related property documents pertaining to properties and/or lands in and around the Northeast Philadelphia area, especially Frankford.

Held at: Historical Society of Frankford [Contact Us]

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Historical Society of Frankford map and atlas collection, circa 1684-2000s

Extent:
9.0 linear feet
Abstract:
The Frankford neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is located in the lower northeast section of the city and is bordered by the Frankford Creek on the south, Castor Avenue on the west, Cheltenham Avenue on the north, and roughly the I-95 expressway on the east. Originally a village, Frankford was incorporated as a borough in 1800 and was later absorbed into the City of Philadelphia in the 1854 Philadelphia city/county consolidation. As of 2015, Frankford is a working-class neighborhood with a diverse population, including a large number of African Americans, Asian Americans, Polish Americans, Italian Americans, Hispanic Americans, and West Indian Americans. The Historical Society of Frankford map and atlas collection, circa 1684-2000s, consists of approximately 90 maps of the greater Philadelphia region, as well as state, national, and international maps.

Held at: Historical Society of Frankford [Contact Us]

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Mathias family papers, 1790-1840 (bulk) 1709-1912 (inclusive)

Extent:
1.5 linear feet
Abstract:
The Mathias family, of Scotch-Irish descent, was one of the first families to settle in Hilltown Township (Bucks County, Pennsylvania) around the turn of the 18th century. The family was very involved in the local Baptist community; a few members were prominent Baptist ministers. The Mathias family papers, 1709-1840 (bulk 1790-1840) consist of various materials relating to several generations of the Mathias family, including cyphering books; financial and estate papers such as account books, receipts and invoices, estate inventories, property records, and daybooks; baptismal certificates; a few letters; and several early property maps.

Held at: Historical Society of Hilltown Township [Contact Us]

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Lower Makefield Historical Society deeds and manuscripts collection, 1729-1925 1729-1925 (inclusive)

Extent:
1.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Makefield was one of the five original townships of Bucks County, Pennsylvania, established in 1692. It was divided into Lower Makefield and Upper Makefield in 1737. Largely agricultural for most of its history, Lower Makefield's population swelled with suburban development in the 20th century. The Lower Makefield Historical Society deeds and manuscripts collection, 1729-1925, consists primarily of deeds, releases, mortgages, and other property-related documents. The Palmer, Yardley, Ely, Stapler, Cadwallader, and other local families are represented. The collection also includes two minute books from local organizations, the Lower Makefield Total Abstinence Temperance Society (1836) and the Lower Makefield Fremount and Dayton Club (1856).

Held at: Lower Makefield Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Malin family papers, 1684-1880 (bulk) 1684-1992 (inclusive)

Extent:
0.5 linear feet
Abstract:
The Borough of Media, the county seat of Delaware County, Pennsylvania, was settled by Europeans beginning in the 1680s. The area remained largely rural until the end of the 19th century. The Malin family was one of the first English Quaker families to settle in Pennsylvania when Randal Malin (1652-1729), a Quaker minister, emigrated from Cheshire, England upon purchasing 250 acres of land from William Penn in 1681. The Malin family papers, 1684-1992 (bulk, 1684-1880), include mostly estate records such as deeds, indentures, wills, bond and mortgages, and estate inventories with some financial papers such as a receipt book, miscellaneous receipts, and shilling notes. There is also a photocopy of a manuscript genealogy of Malin and Edwards families by Phyillis Centman.

Held at: Media Historic Archives Commission [Contact Us]

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Marple Historical Society local history collection, 1685-circa 2000

Extent:
5.0 linear feet
Abstract:
Marple Township in Delaware County, Pennsylvania was settled by English members of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) in 1683. It was primarily agrarian for most of its history, until after World War II when improvement to roads, public transportation and the availability of the automobile made Marple Township a suburban community. The Marple Historical Society local history collection, 1685-circa 2000, consists of various primary- and secondary-source materials that document the history of Marple Township and the people, businesses, and organizations in the township and vicinity. Featured in the collection are 17th century deeds, ledgers from the Bonsall Brothers general store (1873-1918), and 1930s military photographs.

Held at: Marple Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Landreth Family collection, 1700-2000

Extent:
2.5 linear feet
Abstract:
The Landreths, one of Bristol’s most prominent families, established the Landreth Seed Company in 1784 in Philadelphia and subsequently moved the business to the Bristol area in 1847. In addition to their innovations in agriculture and farming, descendants of the Landreth family went on to serve in the Civil War and contribute to the Bristol community, even organizing a twilight baseball league in the 1930’s and building Landreth Baseball Field.

Held at: Margaret R. Grundy Memorial Library [Contact Us]

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Newtown Historic Association legal documents collection, circa 1690-1964

Extent:
10.5 linear feet
Abstract:
Newtown, the county seat of Bucks County from 1726 to 1813, is one of the most historic areas in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Newtown Historic Association legal documents, circa 1690-1964, consist of original deeds, leases and releases and other legal documents. Particular properties and buildings are significantly documented, including Allen's Mill, 1787-1964. Of special interest is a 1692 deed on rag paper with an original 17th century jester watermark.

Held at: Newtown Historic Association [Contact Us]

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New London Area Historical Society local history collection, 1970-2000 (bulk) 1711-2000 (inclusive)

Extent:
12.0 linear feet
Abstract:
New London Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania was chartered in 1723 and originally included the areas that now comprise adjacent Franklin Township and nearby London Britain Township. The New London Academy opened in 1743 and was responsible for educating a number of prominent colonial, revolutionary, and early American-era politicians, historians, clergy, and educators, including three signers of the Declaration of Independence. The New London Area Historical Society local history collection, 1711-2000 (bulk 1970-2000), consists of a mix of primary and secondary-source material relating to the history and residents of New London Township and nearby areas. Materials include manuscripts, property files, photographs, slides, newspaper clippings, subject files, and a small amount of records from various New London historical organizations.

Held at: New London Area Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Cox-Robinson-Ross family papers, 1669-1980 (inclusive)

Extent:
2.5 linear feet
Abstract:
The Cox, Ross, and Robinson families were important Pennsylvania families active in early Philadelphia and Bucks Counties, and later in the development of Hatboro in Montgomery County. The Cox-Robinson-Ross family papers, 1669-1980, include letters, financial and property records, business papers, photographs, scrapbooks, architectural drawings, and research materials documenting several generations.

Held at: Old York Road Historical Society [Contact Us]

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Swarthmore College property records, 1687-1993 (inclusive)

Extent:
65 linear ft.
Abstract:
The Swarthmore College property records include real estate and building appraisals; deeds, mortgages, and leases; reports by Swarthmore committees and external consultants; administrative documents such as budgets and correspondence; blueprints, maps, and plans; and other records pertaining to college buildings and grounds, construction and maintenance, and utilities and resource use.

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

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Anna Wharton Morris Papers, 1729-1957 (inclusive)

Extent:
35 linear ft. (68 boxes)
Abstract:
Anna Wharton Morris was the youngest daughter of Joseph Wharton, prominent Philadelphia industrialist and philanthropist. She was a birthright member of the Society of Friends, active in prison reform and other social reform movements of her day, and was a profilic writer, primarily of short stories and essays. In 1896, she married Harrison S. Morris, Philadelphia author and arts administrator, and they had one child, Catharine Morris Wright. The collection includes her diaries and journals, maintained almost continuously from 1884 to 1956, correspondence received, her manuscript writings, and other miscellaneous materials. Of particular interest is material on the prison reform movement, particularly the correspondence of Thomas Mott Osborne. Other correspondents include Emily Sartain, Thomas Wallace Swann, J. William White, Francis Howard Williams, Sarah Butler and Owen Wister, George W. Kirchwey, Gertrude and Anne Montgomerie Traubel, James Moore Swank, Charles Wharton Stork,...(see more)

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

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John Salkeld legal papers, 1735-1757 (inclusive)

Extent:
.1 linear ft. (.1 linear feet (6 folders.))
Abstract:
This collection includes six signed bonds and obligations of John Salkeld with various individuals.

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

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Collection of Logan family papers, 1711-1821 (inclusive)

Extent:
.1 linear ft. (.1 linear feet (13 folders.))
Abstract:
This collection includes the letters of three generations of the Logan family. Among these are business letters of James Logan, in his function as executor of the Dickinson family will, and in reference to Pennsylvania business written to Hannah Penn and his primary business manager. Also included is a letter written to James Logan in Latin on a botanical subject. A business letter from William Logan to Dr. John Fothergill is also included. Of particular interest are letters from George Logan to his family, and one expressing his views on diplomatic relations with France. Also included are the will of George Logan and surveys of the Logan properties in 1717 and 1777.

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

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John Ladd Howell correspondence received, 1733-1764; bulk 1753-1764 (inclusive) 1753-1764 (bulk)

Extent:
.1 linear ft. (.1 linear feet (5 folders.))
Abstract:
The collection contains correspondence received by Philadelphia Quaker merchant John Ladd Howell and his family. The majority of the letters were sent by his father, John Howell, addresseed to him and to his mother during extended absences in North and South Carolina and Georgia. The letters concern family business with fatherly advice to his son, some local commentary, and mention of mistreatment of the Indians. Of interest is a letter from Richard Waln from the Barbadoes. Also included is the will of his maternal grandfather, John Ladd of New Jersey,

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

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Thomas Hallowell papers, 1749-1819 (inclusive)

Extent:
.1 linear ft. (.1 linear feet (1 folder.))
Abstract:
This collection includes correspondence and receipts of Thomas Hallowell. Included are a letter written to his wife and several written by Hugh Forbes, describing his religious travels. Also included is the arithmetic book of Sarah T. Parker, dated 1805.

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

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Mifflin-Rasin-Jenkins family papers, 1740-1899 (inclusive)

Extent:
.1 linear ft. (.1 linear feet (2 folders.))
Abstract:
This collection includes legal documents and genealogical information on the Mifflin, Rasin and Jenkins families. Included are marriage records of Warner Mifflin and a will of Abraham Rasin and deeds of Elizabeth Jenkins. Also included is an account of a conversation between Warner Mifflin, an abolitionist, and an enslaved person he was about to emancipate.

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

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Ezekiel Cleaver family papers, 1729-1895 (inclusive)

Extent:
.1 linear ft. (.1 linear feet (20 items.))
Abstract:
This collection includes the correspondence and miscellaneous papers of a Quaker family concerning the Hicksite/Orthodox controversy in Ohio, conditions of everyday life in Virginia and the Midwest, and observations on slavery and the use of tobacco. Also included is an account of Cleaver family births and deaths, 1729-1895.

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

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