Call Number:

C0547

Repository:

Princeton University Library: Manuscripts Division

Extent:

• 6 boxes
• 5.8 linear feet

Language:

English

Preferred Citation:

Identification of specific item; Date (if known); David Laurence Pierson Scrapbooks, Box and Folder Number; Special Collections, Princeton University Library.

Date:

1927-1937 (bulk) and 1817-1953 (inclusive)

Creator:

Pierson, David Laurence, 1865-1938

Form:

Correspondence., Historians -- New Jersey -- Orange., Scrapbooks, and Sermons.

Abstract:

Consists of twenty scrapbook volumes (1927-1937) of letters, documents, photographs, newspapers clippings, and printed matter concerning the observance of Constitution Day (Sept. 17), compiled by David Laurence Pierson, who was instrumental in getting national recognition for that day.

David Laurence Pierson was the originator of Constitution Day (Sept. 17), which was inaugurated in 1917. He also helped obtain national recognition for Flag Day (June 1). Pierson was also president of the Orange, N. J., chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) and historian general (1910-1918) of the National Society of the SAR.

The collection consists of 20 scrapbook volumes (1927-1937) of letters, documents, photographs, newspapers clippings, and printed matter concerning the observance of Constitution Day, compiled by Pierson. Included in the scrapbooks are many letters from various chapters of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR). Some personal papers include Pierson's reminiscences and diary entries (1865-1938) on index cards; two scrapbooks (1904-1927) concerning the restoration of the Old Burying Ground in Orange, SAR meetings, and the fire of 1927 in Orange; and miscellaneous family documents, memorabilia, and a printed copy of a prospectus for his History of the Oranges to 1921. Also present is a group of manuscript sermons (1859-1895) by Henry F. Hickok, pastor of the Brick Presbyterian Church in East Orange, N.J.

The scrapbooks are arranged chronologically.