Archives Directory for the History of Collecting in America
Archives related to: Fell, J. Gillingham (Joseph Gillingham), 1816-1878
| title | Ruckman family photographs and papers, ca.1838-ca.1910. |
| repository | The Winterthur Library |
| description | A collection of 14 photographs, one drawing, and a number of prints collected by unknown members of the Ruckman and Fell families of Pennsylvania. Fourteen photographs show rooms in homes; unfortunately, most are not identified. Three photos are of the front and back parlors in the home of Amanda Ruckman (Mrs. J. Gillingham) Fell who lived on Walnut Street. The photos were taken in 1900. The rooms are ornate, filled with Victorian furniture, decorations, and paintings. The other photos are from a less-ornate home (or homes). Halls, a dining room, parlors, and bedrooms are depicted. Most of the furniture is from the late 19th century, but some 18th century pieces, such as Chippendale chairs and a tall case clock, are also found. A pencil drawing of flowers was done by Mary W. Fell in 1867(?). Most of the prints were removed from 19th century publications, including Godey’s Lady’s Book, Miss Leslie’s Magazine, and Graham’s Magazine. Included are fashion plates from 1838-ca.1850, a portrait of King Charles I of England, pictures of ladies, and genre scenes. As well, there are a series of illustrations from “Us Fellers” by B. Cory Kilvert (copyrighted 1906), and illustrations of the five senses by Jessie Willcox Smith. All these items had been placed inside a battered copy of the song “Watch on the Rhine.” Biography or history The Ruckman family lived in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, and the Fell family lived in Philadelphia. John Ruckman (1771-1861) was the progenitor of the people who amassed the items in this collection. His daughter Amanda (1819-1900) married Gillingham Fell; they lived in Philadelphia. John’s son Thomas Hart Ruckman (1827-1908) was the grandfather of John Fell Ruckman (1901-1965) who kept these items together. John Fell Ruckman collected pewter; some of his papers are in the Charles V. Swain papers at this repository. Language: Materials are in English. Notes: Most of the items are in fair to good condition. Language: Materials are in English. Call Number: Col. 802 Location: Manuscript Collection |
| extent | 2 boxes (about 65 items): chiefly ill. |
| formats | Photographs Drawings Prints |
| access | Collection open to the public. Copyright restrictions may apply. |
| record source | http://library.winterthur.org |
| finding aid | Contact repository for further details. |
| updated | 02/14/2025 10:07:48 |
| .................................................................... | |
| title | Dalton Dorr Records, 1876-1904 |
| repository | Philadelphia Museum of Art |
| description | Dalton Dorr played a key role in the beginnings of the Pennsylvania Museum and School of Industrial Art, now known as the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Dorr was elected Secretary of the corporation in 1880. In 1888 he is listed as both Secretary and Curator. By 1892 he performed the duties of Secretary, Director, and Curator. In 1899 William Platt Pepper took over as Director, although Dorr continued as Curator and Secretary. Dalton Dorr died on February 26, 1901. Shortly after, Edwin Atlee Barber took over Dorr's roles as Secretary and Curator. This collection contains letter books dating from 1876-1904 of Dorr, Pepper, and also Edwin Atlee Barber. The correspondence pertains to Museum collections, acquisitions, exhibitions, staff, Memorial Hall repairs, and overall information regarding the establishment of the Museum and associated schools. |
| extent | 4.5 linear feet |
| formats | Letterbook |
| access | The collection is open for research |
| record link | http://www.philamuseum.org/pma_archives/ead.php?c=DOR&p=cs |
| record source | http://www.philamuseum.org/archives/findingaids.html |
| finding aid | Available online |
| updated | 02/14/2025 10:07:48 |
| .................................................................... | |