Call Number:

AC025

Repository:

Princeton University Library: University Archives

Extent:

3 boxes

Language:

English

Preferred Citation:

Identification of specific item; Date (if known); Keeper of Princetoniana Records, Box and Folder Number; Special Collections, Princeton University Library.

Date:

1956-1981 (inclusive)

Creator:

Fox, Frederic E. (Frederic Ewing) (1917-1981)

Abstract:

Described by University President William G. Bowen as a "cross between a curator, a ringmaster, and a storyteller," Frederic Ewing Fox was the only man to ever occupy the office of Keeper of Princetoniana at Princeton University. The collection consists primarily of Fox's correspondence with alumni, faculty, and administrators during his tenure as Keeper of Princetoniana.

A graduate from Princeton in 1939, Frederic Ewing Fox went on to serve in the Army in World War II under General Dwight D. Eisenhower. His articles in the New York Timeson American community life brought him to the attention of then President Eisenhower. He served as an assistant in the White House till 1961. In 1964 he became the Recording Secretary at Princeton University.

Described by University President William G. Bowen as a "cross between a curator, a ringmaster, and a storyteller," Frederic Fox was the only person ever to occupy the office of Keeper of Princetoniana at Princeton University. The unique position involved corresponding with students, faculty, and alumni; collecting memorabilia; meeting with potential donors and receiving gifts; and representing the University tradition publicly, among a bevy of other informal duties. A member of the Class of 1939, Fox served as recording secretary of the University for 17 years and became a well-known figure on campus. In 1976 he was made Keeper of Princetoniana, and he held the position until his death in 1981. Concern for the preservation of Princeton's traditions and memorabilia is carried on by the Princetoniana Committee, a group comprised of alumni and other individuals dedicated to the same mission.

The collection consists of Fox's correspondence with alumni, faculty, and administrators during his tenure as Keeper of Princetoniana. Also included are a position description and assessment in which Fox outlines his duties, newspaper clippings, photographs, yearly budget files, and a cassette tape recording of Fox's memorial service.