Houghton Library, Harvard College Library, Harvard
University
Hyde Back Stacks, Harvard Depository
The majority of this collection is shelved offsite at the Harvard
Depository. See access restrictions below for additional information.
MS Hyde 78
Adam, R. B. (Robert
Borthwick), 1863-1940
Papers,
1846-1948 (inclusive),
1918-1939 (bulk).
22 boxes and 4
volumes (22.5 linear ft.)
Papers of department store owner and book collector Robert Borthwick
Adam, consisting mostly of correspondence with fellow collectors and scholars,
photographic portraits, and materials relating to the published catalogs of his
manuscript collection.
Processed by:
Rick Stattler and
Alyson E. Reichgott
*2003JM-33 (part),
*2003JM-36,
*2003JM-71,
*2003JM-207, and *2003JM-234
Bequest of Mary Hyde Eccles, Four Oaks Farm, Somerville, New Jersey; received: 2004.
Provenance:
The
bulk of this collection was probably acquired from the Adam estate along with his
Johnson collection by Donald and Mary Hyde in 1948. At least six other lots were
apparently added by Mary Hyde at a later date. Series II, the Laurence J. Gomme
correspondence, was purchased from Gomme in 1971. The photocopied 1928 July 21
letter was acquired from Robert D. Fleck, the owner of the original, in 1983 Feb. The
photocopied letters from Adam to A.S.W. Rosenbach were acquired in 1983 Jun 24.
The photograph of R.B. and Lena Adam in front of their Buffalo home was a gift from
R.B. Adam III in 1983 Sept. The photocopied letters to and from Belle da Costa
Greene were made from the archives of the Pierpont Morgan Library, and given by Robert Parks on 1997 May
22. The letters from Adam to A.E. Newton dated 1918-1920 were added at an unknown
date.
There are no restrictions on physical
access to this material.
A portion of this collection is not housed at the
Houghton Library but is shelved offsite at the Harvard Depository. Retrieval requires
advance notice. Readers should check with Houghton Public Services staff to
determine what material is offsite and retrieval policies and times.
Robert Borthwick Adam was a prominent manuscript collector. He
was born in England in 1863 as Robert Borthwick Adam Scott, son of John Scott and
Jean (Adam) Scott. In 1872, he was brought to Buffalo, N.Y, and adopted by his uncle,
Robert Borthwick Adam (1833-1904), a prosperous department store owner. He
assumed his uncle's name and eventually inherited the department store, as well as a
substantial collection of British rare books and literary manuscripts, many of them
relating to Samuel Johnson. Adam published a four-volume catalog of his private
library. By his wife Lena Benjamin Stevens Adam, he had two daughters, Harriet
(Adam) (Black) Servis, and Florence (Adam) Conrad; and one son, Robert Borthwick
Adam III (1918-1993). Adam died in 1940, and his Johnson collection was sold by his
children to Donald and Mary Hyde in 1948.
Organized into the following series:
- Series I: Correspondence
- Series II: Files of Laurence J. Gomme
- Series III: Financial records
- Series IV: Manuscripts
- Series V: Miscellaneous
- Series VI: Photographs
- Series VII: Printing plates
The correspondence in Series I is between Adam and various writers, scholars,
book dealers, and collectors. Key correspondents include R.W. (Robert William)
Chapman; A. Edward (Alfred Edward) Newton; A.S.W. (Abraham Simon Wolf)
Rosenbach; and Chauncey Brewster Tinker.
The Laurence J. Gomme
correspondence file in Series II all relates to the negotiations over Adam's Johnson
collection after his death, from 1941 until its sale to Donald and Mary Hyde in 1948.
The bulk of the manuscripts in Series IV relate to the publication of Adam's
library catalogs in 1929 and 1930. The series also contains an annotated proof of
Augustine Birrell's rare Aphorisms on authors and their ways. Another important piece is Adam's annotated copy of George Birkbeck Norman Hill's Index to Boswell's Life of Johnson, used for organizing Adam's
extra-illustrated sets of Johnsoniana.
Most of the photographs in Series V
are portraits of Adam's friends and correspondents. Many are inscribed with greetings
to Adam.
The printing plates in Series VII are the largest portion of the
collection by volume.
Mary Hyde Eccles, "Adam, Tinker, and Newton," in Mary Hyde Eccles: A Miscellany of her Essays and Addresses (New
York: Grolier Club, 2002), 193-247.
I. Correspondence
Arranged alphabetically by correspondent.
This series contains correspondence between R.B. Adam and writers, scholars,
book dealers, and collectors. One of the most frequent correspondents was Adam's
friend and fellow Johnson collector, A. Edward Newton of Philadelphia, 1918-1939.
Most of Newton's letters are dated from Philadelphia, but he also wrote frequently from
England while on vacation. The letters mostly discuss their respective collections of
Johnsoniana, but also touch upon family, health, and contemporary American politics
and economics, especially during the Great Depression.
If there are only
letters from the correspondent and none from RBA, the cataloging describes these files
as "Letters."
Letters or correspondence by individuals or organizations
whose names appear in the Library of Congress authorities are listed in notes when
applicable, as are letters or correspondence by spouses, relatives, and Harvard
employees.
Book dealers and representatives of institutions are sometimes
entered under the firm/organization name, and sometimes under their own names. In
these cases, cross-references are included in the notes.
Finally, the series
contains some photocopied correspondence. In some cases, the originals have been
located while in others they have not. Photocopies cannot be quoted, reproduced, or
published without the permission of the owners of the originals.
(1)
A. Correspondence, [1920?]-1930.
1 folder.
Correspondents include: Charles D. (Charles David) Abbott; and Johannes Carl Andersen.
(2)
Adam, Lena Benjamin Stevens. Letters, [ca. 1901].
1 folder.
RBA II's wife.
(3)
Adam, Thomas. Letters, 1922-1930.
1 folder.
RBA II's brother.
(4)
Axon, Ernest. Letters, 1922-1924.
1 folder.
Letters requesting reprints and acknowledging
receipt of same on behalf of Manchester Public Libraries (Manchester,
England).
(5)
B. Correspondence, 1901-1931 and undated.
1 folder.
Correspondents include: Frank B. (Frank Burkett) Baird;
Edwin J. (Edwin John) Beinecke;
Barnet J. (Barnet Julius) Beyer;
Sir Chartres
Biron;
Theodore Bolton (regarding the Century Association (New York, N.Y.);
Brentano's (Firm);
Brick Row Book Shop (New York,
N.Y.);
Florence Espe Bristol;
Edmund Kemper Broadus;
Walter L. Brown (concerning Buffalo Public Library (Buffalo, N.Y.);
Charles W. (Charles Walts) Burr;
L. H.
(Lyman Henry) Butterfield; and Henry C. Buswell.
(6)
B.F. Stevens & Brown, Ltd. Correspondence,
1920-1931.
1 folder.
(7)
Babcock, Louis L. Letters, 1924-1929.
1 folder.
(8)
Belden, Charles F.D. (Charles Francis Dorr), 1870-1931. Letters, 1921-1922.
1 folder.
Two letters signed
by Belden acknowledging donations to Boston Public Library.
(9)
Bernard Halliday (Firm). Letters, 1930.
1 folder.
Includes a page from a book catalog and notes.
(10)
Blue, C.S. Letters, 1920-1922.
1 folder.
(11)
Brown, Henry Collins, 1862-1961. Letters, 1923-1924.
1 folder.
(12)
Buttrick, Ernest G. Letters, 1928-1931.
1 folder.
(13)
C. Correspondence, 1911-1931.
1 folder.
Correspondents include: J. Homer Caskey;
Charles Sessler (Firm);
Dorothea Mary Roby Benson,
Baroness Charnwood;
James Lowry Clifford;
Phyllis M. Clodd; (on behalf of her husband Edward Clodd);
George Watson Cole (concerning Henry E. Huntington Library and Art Gallery);
E.H. Courville; and Robert
Ernest Cowan.
(14)
Carman, William Warren. Correspondence, 1929-1930.
1 folder.
(15)
Chapman, R.W. (Robert William), 1881-1960. Correspondence, 1920-1936.
6 folders.
Chauncey Brewster Tinker encouraged Chapman to
contact Adam in 1920, and after a slow start, a steady correspondence developed, in
which the two exchanged pleasantries, book leads, and scholarly advice. Much of the
correspondence is in Chapman's nearly illegible hand, with only one or two letters from
RBA II included.
Also includes letters from J. Frederick
Green,
Lawrence Fitzroy Powell, and William A. Wood to Chapman.
Also includes a
letter from Lindsay Fleming to Adam through Chapman.
An amusing account of Chapman's 1950 visit to Mary Hyde
Eccles is chronicled in her
A Miscellany of Her Essays and
Addresses.
(16)
Cowley, A.E. (Arthur Ernest), 1861-1931. Letters, 1923-1928.
1
folder.
Letters acknowledging donations
to Bodleian Library.
(17)
Crockett, W.S. (William Shillinglaw), 1866-1945. Letters, 1931.
1 folder.
(18)
Cross, Wilbur L. (Wilbur Lucius), 1862-1948. Letters, 1918-1936.
1
folder.
Cross was Governor of
Connecticut from 1931-1939.
(19)
Depew, Ganson. Letters, 1930-1933.
1 folder.
(20)
Dickson, William Kirk, 1860-1949. Letters, 1922-1927.
1 folder.
Includes letters signed by Dickson
acknowledging donations to Faculty of Advocates (Scotland). Library.
(21)
E to F. Correspondence, 1922-1938.
1 folder.
Correspondents include: E.P. Dutton (Firm);
Frank Diehl Fackenthal;
Henry Clay Folger; and E.H. Ford.
(22)
E. Mathews (Firm). Correspondence, 1926-1931.
1 folder.
Includes letter from A.W.
(Arthur William) Evans.
(23)
Edgar H. Wells & Co., recipient. Letters from
RBA II, 1922-1928.
1
folder.
(24)
Esdaile, Arundell James Kennedy, 1880-1956. Letters, 1923-1931.
1 folder.
(25)
Frew, Robert (Robert McFarland). Letters, 1928-1931.
1 folder.
(26)
G. Correspondence, 1923-1931.
1 folder.
Correspondents include: Strickland Gibson;
Burns Gillam;
Hugh Steuart Gladstone; and W.A. Gough.
(27)
Gable, William F., 1856-1921. Letters, 1920-1921.
1 folder.
(28)
Gay, George A., 1854-1940. Letters, 1919-1921 and undated.
1 folder.
Includes an
undated extract from the will of Edmond de Goncourt concerning the disposition of his art collection.
(29)
Gerould, James Thayer, 1872-. Letters, 1923-1927.
1 folder.
Includes letters signed by Gerould
acknowledging donations to Princeton University. Library.
(30)
Gookin, Edward L. Letters, 1922-1927.
1 folder.
Includes letters signed by Gookin acknowledging
donations to Harvard University. Library.
(31)
Granniss, Ruth S. (Ruth Shepard), 1872-1954. Letters, 1925-1928.
1 folder.
Includes letters
signed by Granniss acknowledging donations to the Grolier Club.
(32)
Green, J. Frederick. Letters, 1922-1925.
1 folder.
(33)
Greene, Belle da Costa. Letters, 1924-1944.
1 folder.
Includes letters signed by Greene acknowledging
donations to the Pierpont Morgan Library.
Includes photocopies of correspondence between Greene, Lena
Benjamin Stevens Adam, and Adam family lawyer John F.
Connelly.
See also
Morgan, J. P.
(John Pierpont), 1867-1943.
(34)
Grolier Club. Letters, 1923-1926
and undated.
1 folder.
(35)
H. Correspondence, 1927-1930 and undated.
1 folder.
Includes notes.
Correspondents include: Chauncey J. (Chauncey Jerome) Hamlin;
Neilson Campbell Hannay;
Lewis G. Harriman;
Harry F. Marks (Firm);
Harald Heyman;
Mary Robbins Hillard; and A.V. Houghton.
(36)
Hackett, Edmond Byrne, b. 1879. Letters, 1922-1932.
1 folder.
Includes Adam's retained copy of his
1927 letter to Hackett.
(37)
Harmsworth, Cecil, 1869-1948. Letters, 1929-1934.
1 folder.
(38)
Hayd, H.E. Letters, 1930.
1 folder.
(39)
Haynes, E.S.P. (Edmund Sidney Pollock), 1877-1949. Letters, 1928-1931.
1 folder.
(40)
Hewart, Gordon Hewart, Baron, 1870-1943. Letters, 1931-1935.
1
folder.
(41)
Holmes, Samuel van Vranken. Letters, 1929-1930.
1 folder.
(42)
Hurd, Walter C. Correspondence, 1937.
1 folder.
(43)
I to J. Correspondence, 1924-1930 and undated.
1 folder.
Correspondents include: Roger Ingpen;
James Tregaskis (Firm);
L. Stanley (Louis Stanley) Jast; (concerning Manchester Public Libraries, Manchester,
England); and Edith C. Johnson.
(44)
J. Pearson & Co. Correspondence, 1921-1930.
1 folder.
(45)
Jarrett, Edwin S. Letters, 1927-1937.
1 folder.
(46)
K-L. Correspondence, 1930-1931.
1 folder.
Correspondents include: Bertha A. Keyes;
Sir Geoffrey Keynes; and Thomas B. Lockwood.
(47)
Keogh, Andrew, 1869-1953. Letters, 1920-1931.
1 folder.
Includes letters signed by Keough
acknowledging donations to Yale University. Library.
(48)
Lee, Alfred P. (Alfred Pyle), 1871-1940. Letters, 1930-1932.
1
folder.
(49)
Lewis, W.S. (Wilmarth Sheldon), 1895-1979. Letters, [1920?]-1928.
1 folder.
(50)
Lucas, E.V. (Edward Verrall), 1868-1938. Letters, 1925-1931.
1
folder.
Includes clipping of Lucas editorial, 1930.
(51)
M. Correspondence, 1923-1931.
1 folder.
Correspondents include: Geoffrey Madan;
Theobald Mather;
Allen Gordon McArthur;
Charles McCamic;
J.P. (John Pierpont)
Morgan (acknowledging a donation to Pierpont Morgan
Library);
Edgar Munson; and Louise F. Munson.
(52)
MacKinnon, F.D. (Frank Douglas), Sir, 1871-1946. Letters, 1921-1934.
1 folder.
(53)
Milburn, John G. (John George), 1851-1930. Letters, 1926-1929.
1
folder.
(54)
Morley, Christopher, 1890-1957. Letters, 1919-1935,
1952, and undated.
1 folder.
Includes pamphlet reprint,
Christopher Morley on the Amenities of Book Collecting, undated.
Includes photograph of Morley, undated.
Includes letter written on verso of book jacket for Morley's book,
Thunder on
the Left, undated.
Includes letters to RBA II's wife, Lena Benjamin Stevens Adam.
Includes letter from John F. (John Francis) Fleming to the Hydes, which
contains copies of letters to Fleming from Morley.
(55)
Moule, Henry W. Letters, 1927-1929.
1 folder.
(56)
Mumford, Edward W. (Edward Warloch), 1868-1941. Letters, 1921-1930.
1 folder.
(57)
N. Correspondence, 1916-1927.
1 folder.
Correspondents include the National Geographic Society (U.S.);
New York Public Library; and A.D. Noyes (concerning the Century
Association, New York, N.Y.).
(58)
Newton, A. Edward (Alfred Edward), 1864-1940. Correspondence, 1918.
1 folder.
Includes Adam's original letters sent to Newton; probably acquired by Mary Hyde
Eccles separately from the other Adam papers.
(59)
Newton, A. Edward (Alfred Edward), 1864-1940. Correspondence, 1919.
1 folder.
Includes a forwarded copy of a letter from Newton to Councillor [W.A.]
Wood of Lichfield (England), 1919 Sept.
18, paying for Adam's life membership to the Johnson Society.
Includes Adam's original letters and envelopes sent to
Newton; probably acquired by Mary Hyde Eccles separately from the other Adam
papers.
(60)
Newton, A. Edward (Alfred Edward), 1864-1940. Correspondence, 1920.
1 folder.
Includes a forwarded typescript copy of a letter from R.W. (Robert
William) Chapman to Newton, 1920 Dec. 31, concerning the Samuel Johnson correspondence.
Includes
Adam's original letters and envelopes sent to Newton; probably acquired by Mary Hyde
Eccles separately from the other Adam papers.
(61)
Newton, A. Edward (Alfred Edward), 1864-1940. Letters, 1921.
1 folder.
(62)
Newton, A. Edward (Alfred Edward), 1864-1940. Letters, 1922.
1 folder.
Includes a
forwarded letter from Christopher Morley to Newton, 1922
Sept. 6, concerning Newton's
Doctor Johnson : A Play .
(63)
Newton, A. Edward (Alfred Edward), 1864-1940. Letters, 1923.
1 folder.
(64)
Newton, A. Edward (Alfred Edward), 1864-1940. Letters, 1924.
1 folder.
The 1924 Jan. 13
letter describes meeting Ralph Heyward Isham. Also
includes forwarded typescript copies of letters from Newton to Riviere &
Son, 1924 Apr. 29 and Nov. 11 concerning Adam's bookplate; to R.W. (Robert William) Chapman, 1924 May 13 and July 25; and to Mrs. J.J. [Susan F.]
Albright, 1924 Sept. 25.
(65)
Newton, A. Edward (Alfred Edward), 1864-1940. Letters, 1925.
1 folder.
Includes forwarded
typescript copy of a letter from Newton to Mitchell Kennerley, 1925 Dec. 29.
(66)
Newton, A. Edward (Alfred Edward), 1864-1940. Letters, 1926.
1 folder.
The 1926 July 23
letter reports on Ralph Heyward Isham's negotiations for
the Boswell family papers. Also includes forwarded typescript copies of letters from
Newton to Mitchell Kennerley, 1926 Jan. 11; and to Louis B. Hart, 1926 Feb. 5.
(67)
Newton, A. Edward (Alfred Edward), 1864-1940. Letters, 1927.
1 folder.
The 1927 May 19
letter discusses A. S. W. (Abraham Simon Wolf) Rosenbach. Several letters discuss Ralph Heyward Isham and the Boswell papers. Also includes a forwarded typescript copy of a
letter from Newton to George Andrews Hay, 1927 Dec. 9.
(68)
Newton, A. Edward (Alfred Edward), 1864-1940. Letters, 1928.
1 folder.
The 1928 Jan. 6
letter describes Newton's purchase of Samuel Johnson's
teapot (now *2003JM-63). Also includes a forwarded letter from Francis Edwards to Newton, 1928 Feb. 8. Also includes a
photocopy of a letter from Adam to Newton dated 1928 July 21, offering a detailed
account of Adam's parentage and childhood.
(69)
Newton, A. Edward (Alfred Edward), 1864-1940. Letters, 1929.
1 folder.
Many of the letters
from 1929 Nov. 5 onward discuss the stock market crash. Also includes a forwarded
typescript copy of a letter from Newton to Vincent Starrett, 1929 Oct. 10.
(70)
Newton, A. Edward (Alfred Edward), 1864-1940. Letters, 1930.
1 folder.
(71)
Newton, A. Edward (Alfred Edward), 1864-1940. Letters, 1931.
1 folder.
(72)
Newton, A. Edward (Alfred Edward), 1864-1940. Letters, 1932.
1 folder.
The 1932 Nov. 7
letter describes his protest vote for Socialist Norman Thomas for president. The 1932 Dec. 8 letter discusses his plans to photograph
his Samuel Johnson teapot in a pose with Agnes Repplier. A related photograph is in the Hyde Collection.
(73)
Newton, A. Edward (Alfred Edward), 1864-1940. Letters, 1933.
1 folder.
Includes a
forwarded typescript copy of a letter from Newton to L.E. Lynd, 1933 Feb. 15, recommending Adam's son for admission to the Phillips Academy.
(74)
Newton, A. Edward (Alfred Edward), 1864-1940. Letters, 1934.
1 folder.
The 1934 June 18
letter discusses the forgery allegations against Thomas James Wise. Includes a typescript retained copy of Adam's letter to Newton, 1934
June 29.
(75)
Newton, A. Edward (Alfred Edward), 1864-1940. Letters, 1935.
1 folder.
(76)
Newton, A. Edward (Alfred Edward), 1864-1940. Letters, 1936.
1 folder.
The 1936 Apr. 18
letter discusses the discovery of additional James Boswell papers. Includes a typescript telegram from Adam letter to Newton, 1936 May 25.
(77)
Newton, A. Edward (Alfred Edward), 1864-1940. Letters, 1937.
1 folder.
(78)
Newton, A. Edward (Alfred Edward), 1864-1940. Letters, 1938.
1 folder.
(79)
Newton, A. Edward (Alfred Edward), 1864-1940. Letters, 1939.
1 folder.
Includes one letter
addressed to Adam's wife, Lena Benjamin Stevens Adam, 1939 May 23.
(80)
Newton, A. Edward (Alfred Edward), 1864-1940. Letters, undated.
1 folder.
(81)
Newton, E. Swift (Edward Swift). Letters, 1926-1930.
1 folder.
The 1930 June 5 letter discusses
selection of a preparatory school for Adam's son.
(82)
Osgood, Charles Grosvenor, 1871-1964. Letters, 1928-1930 and 1964.
1 folder.
Includes letter addressed to Mary Hyde Eccles, 1964.
(83)
Oxford University Press. Letters, 19221930.
1 folder.
Includes letter from R.W.
(Robert William) Chapman. .
Includes a note.
(84)
P. Correspondence, 1923-1940.
1 folder.
Correspondents include: Pembroke College (University of Oxford);
Alfred W. (Alfred William) Pollard (concerning the British Library. Dept. of Printed Books);
Charles Henry Poole; and Alfred Claghorn
Potter (concerning Harvard College Library).
(85)
Pleadwell, F.L. (Frank Lester), 1872-1957. Letters, 1925-1929.
1
folder.
(86)
Pottle, Frederick Albert, 1897-. Letters, 1926-1931.
1 folder.
(87)
Powell, Lawrence Fitzroy, 1881-1975. Correspondence, 1928-1936 and undated.
1 folder.
(88)
Powell, Walter, 1874-1928. Letters, 1921-1927.
1 folder.
Letters signed by WP requesting and
acknowledging donations to Birmingham Public Libraries.
(89)
R. Correspondence, 1924-1931.
1 folder.
Correspondents include: R. Riviere & Son (Firm);
Harry T. Ramsdell; and W. Roberts (concerning his work for the Times of London Literary Supplement).
(90)
Reade, Aleyn Lyell, 1876-. Correspondence, 1920-1929.
1 folder.
(91)
Roberts, S.C. (Sydney Castle), 1887-1966. Letters, 1922-1931.
1
folder.
(92)
Rogers, Robert William, 1864-1930. Letters, 1919-1928 and undated.
1 folder.
(93)
Rolleston, Humphry Davy, Sir, 1862-1944. Letters, 1929-1930.
1
folder.
(94)
Roscoe, Edward Stanley, 1849-1932. Letters,
1921-1931.
1 folder.
(95)
Rosenbach Company. Correspondence, 1919-1924.
1 folder.
Mostly photocopies; originals in Rosenbach Museum & Library. Many letters addressed to
or from representatives of the Rosenbach Company. Also
includes original letters from A.S.W. (Abraham Simon Wolf) Rosenbach.
(96)
Rosenbach Company. Correspondence, 1925-1929.
1 folder.
Mostly photocopies; originals in Rosenbach Museum & Library. Also includes an original
letter from A.S.W. (Abraham Simon Wolf) Rosenbach.
(97)
Rosenbach Company. Correspondence, 1930-1940 and 1983.
1 folder.
Mostly photocopies; originals in Rosenbach Museum & Library. Also includes an original letter from A.S.W. (Abraham
Simon Wolf) Rosenbach.
One letter to Mary
Hyde Eccles from Clive E. Driver, 1983.
(98)
S. Correspondence, 1918-1936 and undated.
1 folder.
Correspondents include: R. Farquharson (Robert
Farquharson) Sharp (concerning the British Library. Dept.
of Printed Books);
Augustus Hunt Shearer (concerning Grosvenor Library);
Frederick
Miller Smith (concerning Cornell University Library);
John T. Snyder;
Henry Ware
Sprague;
Mr. Stebrovens;
James A. Swan; and the Syndicate Trading Company.
(99)
Sargent, George H. (George Henry), 1867-1931. Letters, 1922-1928.
1 folder.
(100)
Savage, Ernest Albert, 1877-1966. Letters, 1924.
1 folder.
Letters signed by EAS requesting and
acknowledging donations to Edinburgh Public Libraries.
(101)
Schelling, Felix Emmanuel, 1858-1945. Letters, 1924-1931.
1
folder.
(102)
Scott, Geoffrey, 1885-1929. Letters, 1928
and undated.
1 folder.
(103)
Sedgwick, Ellery, 1872-1960. Letters, 1923-1927.
1 folder.
(104)
Smith, David Nichol, 1875-1962. Letters, 1922-1932.
1 folder.
(105)
Spurr & Swift (Firm). Correspondence, 1925-1929.
1 folder.
(106)
Stevens, Henry M. Letters, 1902.
1 folder.
RBA II's father-in-law.
Includes an
invitation to the wedding of RBA II to Stevens's daughter, Lena Benjamin
Stevens Adam.
(107)
Stowe, Franklin D.L., 1879-1964? Letters, 1922-1935.
1 folder.
Thanking Adam for his gifts.
(108)
Tate, Cecil Whittier. Letters, 1922-1923.
1 folder.
(109)
Taylor, Nelson S. Letters, 1923-1930.
1 folder.
(110)
Thomas, L.C. Letters, 1928-1929.
1 folder.
(111)
Tinker, Chauncey Brewster, 1876-1963. Correspondence, 1909-1943.
2 folders.
Letters from
1932-1935 sometimes addressed to R.B. Adam II's wife, Lena Benjamin
Stevens Adam.
Letters from 1936-1938 (with one exception)
addressed to Lena.
Several letters are copies; originals are at Yale University.
(112)
Toynbee, Paget Jackson, 1855-1932. Letters,
1923-1931.
1 folder.
(113)
U. Correspondence, 1922-1929.
1 folder.
Correspondents include: Adelaide Underhill; (concerning Vassar College Library);
Universal
Engraving & Colorplate Company (Buffalo, N.Y.); and Robert J. Usher (concerning Howard Memorial Library).
(114)
Unwin, T. Fisher (Thomas Fisher), 1848-1935. Letters, 1922-1926.
1 folder.
Includes calling card and drawing of TFU, 1922.
(115)
V-W. Correspondence, 1919-1931.
1 folder.
Correspondents include: Frederick Vernon;
Gabriel Wells;
William Andrews Clark
Memorial Library;
J.M. Winterbotham;
Thomas James Wise; and John Woolsey.
(116)
Wheatley, George H. Letters, 1922-1931.
1 folder.
(117)
Whibley, Leonard, 1862 or 3-1941. Letters, 1923-1930.
1 folder.
(118)
William H. Robinson, Ltd. Correspondence, 1926-1928.
1 folder.
(119)
Williamson, George Charles, 1858-1942. Letters, 1924-1931.
1
folder.
(120)
Wood, William A. Letters, 1924-1931.
1 folder.
Letter written in his capacity as the Honorable
Secretary of the Johnson Society.
(121)
Unidentified correspondents. Letter, 1930.
1 folder.
II. Files of Laurence J. Gomme
Arranged alphabetically by correspondent.
This series comprises the workings files of Laurence J. (Laurence
James) Gomme, rare book expert with Brentano's, concerning his commission to handle the disposition of Adam's Samuel
Johnson collection, 1941-1948. It contains correspondence between Gomme and
Robert Borthwick Adam III and family; legal representatives of the Adam estate; and
authors, professors, book dealers, scholars, university libraries, attorneys, and friends
concerning the Adam collection. Files often include letters about or relating to the main
correspondent, often by business associates or scholars. Also included in the
correspondence files are ephemera, clippings, and notes. This series also includes
inventories and appraisals of the Adam collection.
The series contains some
photocopied correspondence. Photocopies cannot be quoted, reproduced, or published
without the permission of the owners of the originals.
(122)
A. Correspondence, 1947-1948.
1 folder.
Includes correspondence with Solomon M. Malkin of
Antiquarian Bookman.
(123)
Adam, Robert Borthwick III. Correspondence,
1941-1948.
1 folder.
Includes copies of correspondence
with: Donald Frizell Hyde.
(124)
Appraisal. Typescripts of earlier appraisals, 1910-1933.
1 folder.
Includes typescripts of the following: a receipt from Robert
Borthwick Adam to Lena Benjamin Stevens Adam, 1910;
two apparaisals by Arthur Swann, 1932; and letters dated
1933 from the Brick Row Book Shop (New York, N.Y.),
Chauncey Brewster Tinker,
A.S.W.
(Abraham Simon Wolf) Rosenbach, and Belle da Costa
Greene.
(125)
Appraisal introduction, undated.
1 folder.
Includes 4 typescript drafts.
(126)
Appraisal notes, undated.
1 folder.
(127)
B. Correspondence, 1947.
1 folder.
(128)
C. Correspondence, 1941.
1 folder.
Includes correspondence with Cornell University.
(129)
Columbia University. Correspondence, 1941.
1 folder.
Includes correspondence with: Barnard College;
Nicholas Murray Butler; and Frank Diehl Fackenthal.
Also includes letter from representative of Barnard College to Marjorie Hope Nicholson of Smith College.
(130)
Connelly, John F. Correspondence, 1941-1948.
1 folder.
Connelly was an attorney for the estate
of RBA II, and associated with the firm of Sanders, Hamilton, Dobmeier,
Connelly, & McMahon.
See also: Dobmeier,
Fred.
(131)
D. Correspondence, 1946.
1 folder.
(132)
Dobmeier, Fred. Correspondence, 1941-1948.
2 folders.
FD was an attorney for the estate of
RBA II, and associated with the firm of Sanders, Hamilton, Dobmeier,
Connelly, & McMahon.
See also: Connelly,
John F.
(133)
H. Correspondence, 1945-1947.
1 folder.
Includes correspondence with Donald Frizell Hyde.
(134)
I. Correspondence, 1944.
1 folder.
(135)
Inventory :
List of Books in the
Johnson Library of Eighteenth Century Literature,
1936.
1 folder.
Two typescript copies of a detailed inventory of printed works,
both with manuscript notes, 1939-1946 and undated.
One copy is annotated with appraisal values.
(136)
Inventory notes, 1936 and undated.
1 folder.
Includes lists of discrepancies between the printed Adam catalogs and the collection as
appraised, and a list of books loaned to the University of Rochester.
(137)
K. Correspondence, 1944.
1 folder.
Includes correspondence with Mitchell Kennerley.
(138)
L. Correspondence, 1946-1947.
1 folder.
Includes correspondence with Thomas W. (Thomas William) Lamont.
(139)
M. Correspondence, 1941-1947.
1 folder.
Includes correspondence with Macy's (Firm), and Christopher Morley.
(140)
O. Correspondence, 1945.
1 folder.
Includes correspondence with Ernest Hatch Wilkins of Oberlin College.
(141)
P. Correspondence, 1946.
1 folder.
Includes correspondence with Parke-Bernet Galleries.
(142)
R. Correspondence, 1946.
1 folder.
Includes letter to John D. Rockefeller, 1906-.
(143)
S. Correspondence, 1946-1947.
1 folder.
Includes correspondence with Harriet Adam Servis, the
sister of RBA II.
(144)
U. Correspondence, 1945-1947.
1 folder.
Includes correspondence with: University of Houston, and
University of Michigan. Library.
(145)
University of Rochester. Library. Correspondence, 1940-1945.
1 folder.
Includes
correspondence with: Robert F. (Robert Frederic) Metzdorf.
Some photocopies; originals
at Yale University.
(146)
University of Texas. Correspondence, 1941-1948.
1 folder.
(147)
Untitled speech, not before 1942.
1 folder.
Partial typescript by an unidentified author,
discussing the reasons for the decline of the great private book collections.
(148)
W. Correspondence, 1948.
1 folder.
Includes a letter from W.V. (William Vermillion) Houston of
the William M. Rice Institute.
(149
Yale University. Correspondence, 1941-1948.
1 folder.
Includes correspondence with: James T. (James Tinkham) Babb;
Herman
W. Liebert;
Chauncey Brewster Tinker; and Donald Goddard Wing.
Includes
correspondence between Harriet Adam Servis and CBT.
Some photocopies; originals at Yale University.
III. Financial records
Arranged alphabetically by organization.
Invoices, receipts, and other documents relating to Adam's acquisition of books
and manuscripts, mostly for his Samuel Johnson collection.
(150)
A. Invoices, 1922-1931.
1 folder.
(151)
B.F. Stevens & Brown, Ltd. Invoices and
notes, 1918-1931.
1
folder.
(152)
Bernard Quaritch (Firm). Invoice, 1924.
1 folder.
(153)
Beyer, Barnet J. (Barnet Julius), 1887-1947. Invoices, 1926-1929.
1
folder.
(154)
Brentano's (Firm). Invoices, 1918-1930.
1 folder.
(155)
Brick Row Book Shop (New York, N.Y.). Invoices and list, 1918-1930
1 folder.
(156)
C. Invoices, 1918-1923.
1 folder.
(157)
Charles Sessler (Firm). Invoices, 1920-1923.
1 folder.
(158)
D. Invoice, 1930.
1 folder.
(159)
E. Invoice, 1924.
1 folder.
(160)
E.P. Dutton (Firm). Invoices, 1922-1925.
1 folder.
(161)
E. Mathews (Firm). Bill of lading and invoice, 1926.
1 folder.
(162)
Edgar H. Wells & Co. Invoices, 1922-1930.
1 folder.
(163)
G. Invoices, 1918-1924.
1 folder.
(164)
George D. Smith Book Co. Invoices and list, 1918-1919.
1 folder.
(165)
H. Invoices, 1928-1930.
1 folder.
(166)
Harper & Brothers. List, 1918.
1 folder.
(167)
J. Invoices, 1926-1930.
1 folder.
(168)
J. Pearson & Co. Customs record and
invoices, 1924-1929.
1
folder.
(169)
L. Invoice, 1928.
1 folder.
(170)
M. Invoices, 1926-1930.
1 folder.
(171)
Maggs Bros. Customs records and invoices, 1918-1921.
1 folder.
(172)
Matthews-Northrup Company. Invoices, 1919-1923.
1 folder.
(173)
N. Invoices, 1921-1924.
1 folder.
(174)
Oxford University Press. Financial statement
and invoices, 1929-1931.
1 folder.
Includes
(175)
R. Invoices, 1925-1927.
1 folder.
(176)
Rosenbach Company. Invoices and list, 1921-1930.
1 folder.
(177)
S. Invoices, 1923-1928.
1 folder.
(178)
U. Invoices and note, 1928-1930.
1 folder.
(179)
V. Invoices, 1920-1935.
1 folder.
(180)
Wells, Gabriel, 1862-1946. Invoices and list, 1918-1929.
1 folder.
(181)
William Brown (Firm). Invoice, 1930.
1 folder.
(182)
William H. Robinson, Ltd. Invoice, 1926.
1 folder.
(183)
Zucker, Hyman. Invoice, 1920.
1 folder.
IV. Manuscripts
Arranged alphabetically by author and title.
Drafts and notes for publications by Adam, his annotations on a published index,
and miscellaneous manuscripts and typescripts by other authors that relate to his
collecting activities.
(184)
Adam, R. B. (Robert Borthwick), 1863-1940.
Bookplates, [circa 1880-1940]
1 folder.
Three identical plates, reading "Ex libris, Robert Borthwick Adam."
Also includes the copper printing plate.
Also includes six bookplate designs, in pen and ink, and in pencil.
Includes *2003JM-71.
Hyde Back Stacks
(185)
Adam, R. B. (Robert Borthwick), 1863-1940.
A catalogue of the principal books in the library of Robert B. Adam :
autograph manuscript, Buffalo (N.Y.),
1893.
1 volume.
Arranged into seven sections: Johnsoniana, Ruskiniana, First &
Extra-Illustrated Editions, Burnsiana, Editions De Luxe, Grolier Publications, and
Miscellanea. Binding is detached.
(186)
Adam, R. B. (Robert Borthwick), 1863-1940.
The Fascination of Figures : typescript and partial autograph
manuscript, undated.
1 volume.
A speech on
arithmetic, for an unidentified audience.
(187)
Adam, R. B. (Robert Borthwick), 1863-1940.
List : autograph manuscript, [not before 1897]
1 folder.
List of James Boswell letters owned by Adam, along with their location in his various
extra-illustrated volumes.
(188)
Adam, R. B. (Robert Borthwick), 1863-1940.
Notes : typescript, 1936?
1 folder.
Notes
for a speech given at the University of
Rochester.
(189)
Adam, R. B. (Robert Borthwick), 1863-1940.
Notes : typescript, undated.
1
folder.
The text of a speech on the Adam family history.
(190)
Adam, R. B. (Robert Borthwick), 1863-1940.
Portraits of Johnson : autograph manuscript, [1897]
1 folder.
A critical study of the known surviving images of Samuel Johnson.
Published as "Portraits of
Samuel Johnson" in The Bookman XI (1897 Mar.), 168-173.
(191)
Adam, R. B. (Robert Borthwick), 1863-1940.
The R.B. Adam Library Relating to Dr. Samuel Johnson and His Era :
distribution notes, 1929-1934 and undated.
1 folder.
Includes: a printed prospectus with text credited to R.W. (Robert William) Chapman,
1929; a circular letter dated 1929 Nov. 10 concerning errata; a Christmas card accompanying a preview of Vol. IV, 1930 Dec.; a
distribution list, 1934 Dec.; a draft circular letter acknowledging thank-you notes,
undated; and a draft errata note, undated.
(192)
Adam, R. B. (Robert Borthwick), 1863-1940.
The R.B. Adam Library Relating to Dr. Samuel Johnson and His Era, Volume
the Third : partly printed manuscript, [1929]
1 volume.
This item is the concluding "Autograph Letters in the Collection" section
of the Catalogue of the Johnsonian Collection of R.B. Adam
(published in 1921), disbound and annotated with revisions for release as a separate
publication. Paginated in pencil.
Published, London: Oxford
University Press, 1929.
(193)
Adam, R. B. (Robert Borthwick), 1863-1940.
The R.B. Adam Library Relating to Dr. Samuel Johnson and His Era, Volume
the Third : autograph manuscript notes, [1929]
1 folder.
(194)
Adam, R. B. (Robert Borthwick), 1863-1940.
The R.B. Adam Library Relating to Dr. Samuel Johnson and His Era, Volume
the Fourth : proofs, 1930.
1 folder.
Incomplete set of
proofs, including many photographs marked up with printing instructions. The many
changes marked on these sheets were not reflected in the published work.
(195)
Adam, R. B. (Robert Borthwick), 1863-1940.
The R.B. Adam Library Relating to Dr. Samuel Johnson and His Era, Volume
the Fourth : printed book, 1930.
1 folder.
Marked up with corrections, possibly for a second edition. Bound, with no cover.
(196)
Adam, R. B. (Robert Borthwick), 1863-1940.
Speech : partial manuscript, undated.
1 folder.
Notes
for a speech on James Boswell.
(197)
Adam, R. B. (Robert Borthwick), 1863-1940.
Speech by Robert B. Adam: typescript, 1935 May 15.
1 folder.
Text of a speech given at the dedication of the Lockwood Memorial Library at the State University of New York at Buffalo.
(198)
Birrell, Augustine, 1850-1933, editor.
Aphorisms on authors and their ways : with some general observations on the humours,
habits, and methods of composition of poets--good, bad, and indifferent ; diligently
collected from Johnson's "Lives" : proofs, [London] [1917]
1 folder.
Incomplete set of proofs (pages 17 through 60), with comments
in an unknown hand, possibly by Robert Borthwick Adam. Folded into three signatures of four sheets each.
(199)
Birrell, Augustine, 1850-1933.
Introduction to Vol. II of C.K.S.'s new edition of Boswell's Life of Johnson :
manuscript, [1922]
1
folder.
Manuscript of the introduction to
Volume II of the 1922 Clement King Shorter edition of
The Life of Samuel Johnson, LL.D.
Hyde Back Stacks
(200)
Hill, George Birkbeck Norman, 1835-1903.
Index to Boswell's Life of Johnson : printed book, New York, 1889.
3 volumes.
Heavily annotated, interleaved, and
rebound by Robert Borthwick Adam. These volumes
reveal Adam's plan behind his extra-illustrated set of Hill's edition of the Life of Johnson (MS Hyde 76). Adam numbered every individual
mentioned in Hill's index, and attempted to obtain a portrait and an autograph
document for each. The index bears notations of "P" and "A" for those cases where
Adam's hunt was successful. His own cross-referenced list of these items, keyed to the
numbered index, is interleaved. Adam began but never finished the task of
cross-referencing his list of portraits and autographs to their locations in the
extra-illustrated volumes.
(201)
Ruskin, John, 1819-1900. Prints : [1846] and undated.
1
folder.
Six etchings and engravings.
Only two bear titles and artist credits; both are plates from Ruskin's 1846 work
Modern Painters, plates numbered 19 and 76, engraved by John
Henry Le Keux. The other four are uncredited, untitled landscapes;
attribution is uncertain. The prints may have been collected by Robert
Borthwick Adam (1833-1904), who built an important Ruskin collection
(now at Yale University).
(202)
The Saturday review of literature : printed magazines, 1935.
2 volumes.
Two issues: 1935 Jan. 26 featuring a
review by Chauncey Brewster Tinker of the Hill-Powell
edition of Boswell's Life of Johnson, and 1935 Mar. 23
featuring a letter to the editor by R.W. (Robert William) Chapman in response to the review.
(203)
Various authors. Typescript transcripts, [circa 1900-1940]
1 folder.
Transcripts of various items, possibly
acquired from dealers or prepared for use in Adam's various catalogues. Includes
transcripts of five significant manuscripts not found in the Hyde manuscript collections:
Burns, Robert, 1759-1796. Partial typescript of a letter to Charles Sharpe, undated.
Johnson, Samuel, 1709-1784. Manuscript tracing of his 1724 signature and Latin inscription in a 1685 edition of
Homer.
Langton, Bennet, 1737-1801. Typescript transcript letter, Rochester (England), to Samuel Johnson, 1782 Mar. 21.
Mentions the death of Robert Levet.
Nasmyth, James, 1808-1890. Typescript transcript note, Manchester (England), 1855 May 23.
Attests to the authenticity of an Alexander Nasmyth painting of Robert Burns. Transcribed with
several other documents relating to the provenance of the same painting.
Scott, William, Baron Stowell, 1745-1836. Typescript dealer description of a letter from Scott to Sir Robert
Chambers, Oxford (England), 1773, including a lengthy quotation from the letter.
The quoted portion of the letter mentions Samuel Johnson.
V. Miscellaneous
(204)
Adam, Lena Benjamin Stevens. Will, 1940.
1 folder.
A photocopy of her 1940 will, made in
1983.
(205)
Clippings,
1922-1940 and undated.
1 folder.
(206)
Press release,
[1948]
1 folder.
Manuscript draft of a press release in an unidentified hand,
concerning the sale of the R.B. Adam Collection to "a private collector."
VI. Photographs
Arranged alphabetically by subject.
*2003JM-37
(207)
Adam, R. B. (Robert Borthwick), 1863-1940.
Relief halftones,
[1921]
1 folder.
Two prints of the same image.
Depicts R.B. Adam standing
outdoors with his son Robert B. Adam (1918-1993) and an
unidentified man.
Published in R.B. Adam's untitled 1926 Christmas
keepsake, with the caption
Three Life-Members of the Johnson Society of
Lichfield, England, 1921.
(208)
Adam, R. B. (Robert Borthwick), 1863-1940.
Photograph and relief halftone, undated.
1 item in 1 folder.
Two prints of the same image.
Hyde Back Stacks
(209)
Adam, R. B. (Robert Borthwick), 1863-1940.
Photographs of library, undated.
1 item in 1 folder.
With an autograph note by Adam on verso.
Hyde Back Stacks
(210)
Adam, R. B. (Robert Borthwick), 1863-1940, and Lena Benjamin Stevens Adam.
Photograph, circa
1904-1910.
1 item in 1 folder.
With an autograph note by Mary Hyde Eccles on
verso, reading "Mr. and Mrs. R.B. Adam II in front of their residence, 46 Norwood Ave., Buffalo, N.Y. Coachman: Henry Ware."
*2003JM-234
Hyde Back Stacks
(211)
Biron, Chartres, Sir, 1863-1940.
Photograph, undated.
1 item in 1 folder.
With an
autograph signature.
Hyde Back Stacks
(212)
Esdaile, Arundell James Kennedy, 1880-1956.
Photograph, undated.
1 item in 1 folder.
With an autograph note, signed, from Esdaile to Adam, 1927.
Hyde Back Stacks
(213)
Green, J. Frederick.
Photograph, undated.
1 item in 1
folder.
With an autograph note, signed,
from Green to Adam, 1929.
Hyde Back Stacks
(214)
Harmsworth, Cecil, 1869-1948.
Photograph, undated.
1 item in 1 folder.
With an
autograph note, signed, 1927 Dec.
Hyde Back Stacks
(215)
Lucas, E. V. (Edward Verrall), 1868-1938.
Photograph by Doris Ulmann, undated.
1 item in 1 folder.
With an autograph note, signed, from
Lucas to Adam, undated.
Hyde Back Stacks
(216)
MacKinnon, F. D. (Frank Douglas), Sir, 1871-1946.
Photograph, undated.
1 item in 1 folder.
With an autograph note, signed, from MacKinnon to Adam, 1927 Oct.
Hyde Back Stacks
(217)
Milburn, John G. (John George), 1851-1930.
Photograph, undated.
1 item in 1 folder.
With an
autograph note, signed.
Hyde Back Stacks
(218)
Morley, Christopher, 1890-1957.
Photograph, undated.
1 item in 1 folder.
With an
autograph note, signed, undated.
Hyde Back Stacks
(219)
Newton, A. Edward (Alfred Edward), 1864-1940.
Photograph, undated.
1 item in 1 folder.
With an autograph note, signed, from Newton to Adam, 1922 July 19.
Hyde Back Stacks
(220)
Newton, A. Edward (Alfred Edward), 1864-1940.
Photograph, undated.
1 item in 1 folder.
With an autograph note, from Newton to Adam, 1926 Apr. 7.
Hyde Back Stacks
(221)
Newton, A. Edward (Alfred Edward), 1864-1940.
Photograph, undated.
1 item in 1 folder.
With an autograph note, signed, from Newton to Adam, 1927 June 15.
Hyde Back Stacks
(222)
Newton, A. Edward (Alfred Edward), 1864-1940.
Photograph, undated.
1 item in 1 folder.
Photograph of a bust of Newton.
Hyde Back Stacks
(223)
Osgood, Charles Grosvenor, 1871-1964.
Photograph, undated.
1 item in 1 folder.
Hyde Back Stacks
(224)
Powell, Lawrence Fitzroy, 1881-1975.
Photograph, undated.
1 item in 1 folder.
With an
autograph note, signed, undated.
Hyde Back Stacks
(225)
Russell, Charles, Sir, 1863-1928.
Photograph, undated.
1 item in 1 folder.
Hyde Back Stacks
(226)
Tinker, Chauncey Brewster, 1876-1963.
Photographs, undated.
2 items in 1 folder.
Original
and reproduction.
With an autograph note, signed, from Tinker to Adam, 1927 June.
Hyde Back Stacks
(227)
Tinker, Chauncey Brewster, 1876-1963.
Photograph, undated.
1 item in 1 folder.
With an
autograph note, signed, from Tinker to Adam, 1928 Dec.
Hyde Back Stacks
(228)
Unidentified portraits. Photograph, undated.
7 items in 1 folder.
7 unidentified portraits.
VII. Printing plates
(229)
Copper printing plates used for the
illustrations in The R.B. Adam Library Relating to Dr. Samuel Johnson and His
Era,
1929.
113
plates.
Number 111 includes two small
plates in one folder. Number 113 includes one plate mounted on wood, and one plate
not mounted.