Beach papers, 1880-1955 (bulk 1880-1910): Scope & Contents of the Collection

Scope and Contents of the Collection

The Emily Kellogg Beach Papers consist of a scrapbook, writings, memorabilia, biographical information and photographs. Of particular interest is a scrapbook compiled by Beach between 1880-1910. This volume contains a wide variety of materials that reflect Beach's activities and interests. Most documents and photographs concern her student years at Mount Holyoke Seminary and College, 1889-1893. These items include an "Anthropometric Card" that contains "measurements and tests" of Beach dated 1888, a "Library Card" listing the titles of books that Beach may have read, and Glee, Banjo and Mandolin Clubs concert programs. Other documents relate to the Robbins School in Norfolk, Connecticut, and the Hillhouse High School in New Haven, Connecticut, 1884-1888. Also contained in the scrapbook are a Woman's Christian Temperance Union pledge card from 1880 and Prohibition Party material, 1892. The prohibition material reflects Beach's involvement in a mock political convention at Mount Holyoke and includes the Prohibition Party campaign textbook, a letter from the National Headquarters, two campaign pins, and an official Mount Holyoke ballot for the United States presidential election of 1892. This scrapbook also contains programs concerning events and institutions in New York City. This material includes the program from the first United States production of Gilbert and Sullivan's "The Mikado" in 1885, the program of the dedication of the Statue of Liberty in 1886, and the 1887 "Catalogue" of the Eden Musee, a waxwork museum. Other programs, clippings, and invitations highlight events in Norfolk, New Haven, and Hartford, Connecticut. There are several documents reflecting Beach's interest in missionary work between 1884-1892. The scrapbook includes a few photographs taken at Mount Holyoke and elsewhere. The writings consist of a pamphlet about the Robbins School, written by Beach and published in 1935. Rounding out the collection are Beach's Mount Holyoke graduation pin, a Mount Holyoke postcard, her obituary, and two copies of her Mount Holyoke senior photograph, 1893.