Finding Aid

 

For the

 

Ruth Blackinton Browne Collection

 

At the

North Adams Public Library

 

 

 

 

By Dawn Morin

 

June 2006

 

 

 

 

FINDING AID FOR THE RUTH BLACKINTON BROWNE COLLECTION

AT THE NORTH ADAMS PUBLIC LIBRARY

 

VOLUME:  Four (4) Linear Feet in 11 document boxes, maps in Flat Files. 

 

DATES:  1800s - present

 

ACQUISITION:  Estate of Ruth B. BROWNE

 

ACCESS:  Access to these materials by appointment.

 

COPYRIGHT:  Requests for permission to publish material from this collection should be discussed with the Special Collections Librarian.

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

Notes on the Collection

Historical Notes

Materials Descriptions

Box and File Listings

 

*Each item will be followed by an acquisition number if one has been assigned to that item, followed by a location if established, each in brackets.

 

                   Acquisition number key:

                             RBB = Ruth Blackinton Browne Collection

 

                   Location key:

                             FF = Flat File

                             VFV = Vertical Files in the Vault

 

                   Abbreviations key:

                             NAPL = North Adams Public Library

                             OPAC = Online Public Access Catalog

                             RBB = Ruth Blackinton Browne

                             WBB = William Bradford Browne

 

__________________________________________________________________________________

 

NOTES ON THE COLLECTION:  This extensive collection, donated by the estate of former Library Director Ruth Blackinton Browne and including much material collected by her father, William Blackinton Browne, contains photographs, both personal and genealogical correspondence, memoirs, deeds and legal papers, newsclippings, manuscripts, journals, scrapbooks and maps.  Many of the maps have been removed to the Special Collections flat file (FF).  The collection also contained numerous post cards which have been removed and added the Postcard Collection, and are listed in its database; and materials on the Hoosac Tunnel, which have been relocated to boxes with the Hoosac Tunnel Collection and listed in that collection’s finding aids.  All are attributed to the R. B. Browne Collection.

 

HISTORICAL NOTES:

 

Ruth Blackinton Browne was born in North Adams on July 17, 1913 to William Bradford Browne and Ruth Harriet (Blackinton) Browne.  Her father, who served for many years as the Northern Berkshire Register of Deeds, was an avid local historian and highly respected genealogist who wrote numerous pamphlets and articles about the area.  She graduated from Drury High School in 1931, and attended Simmons School of Library Science in Boston, receiving her B.A. in 1937.  She served as the North Adams Public Library’s Children’s Librarian from 1938 to 1941.  She then left the community to become Children’s Librarian at the Providence, RI. Library (1942-1944) and the Schenectady, NY library (1945-1950).  She returned to North Adams in 1951 to care for her parents.  She served as Head Librarian of the North Adams Public Library from 1955 to 1976.  She died March 22, 2002.  In addition, she was very active in the Congregational Church, Hoosac Tunnel Centennial Committee, Historical Commission, Main Street Beautification project, Council on Aging and Salvation Army Advisory Board.

 

Ms. Browne was a descendant of Sanford Blackinton, builder of the Houghton Mansion in which the library is housed, and Gov. William Bradford, governor of the Massachusetts Plymouth Colony.  Her father was son of Charles A. Browne, who invented the electric fuse used in construction of the Hoosac Tunnel.

 

 

MATERIALS – GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

 

The collection contains items that were in the personal possession of Ruth Blackinton Browne and donated to the North Adams Public Library after her death in 2002.  Some of what she had belonged to her father, William Bradford Browne, who was an avid genealogist and local historian.  Among the collection are original notes and deeds dating from the 1800s (some but not all have been specifically identified), many old family photographs, and correspondence from family members dating from the 1800s.  There is a collection of items relating to Elihu Hawkes, a local doctor who also had connections with the First Congregational Church.  There are many original deeds and notes in connection with property he owned and miscellaneous manuscripts that Hawkes had written.  There is much valuable genealogical information that William Bradford Browne had collected and compiled, included are old newspaper accounts and obituaries.  As often as possible, the family names are identified in this finding aid.  Many have connections to the local history. 

 

Ruth Browne was an active member of the First Congregational Church and collected many items of interest regarding the history of the church as well as the Church’s Coral Club.  In addition, Ms. Browne served on several reunion committees for Drury High School and collected information for the classes of 1912, 1925 and 1931, including pictures.  Because Ruth was also a librarian at the North Adams Public Library (1955 – 1976), she collected information on the library itself.  This includes numerous newspaper articles over the years. 

 

 

BOX AND FILE LISTINGS:

 

BOX 1 - BROWNE CORRESPONDENCE (1800-1900s)

 

          Poetry (Original Manuscripts)

-         Acostic on Benedict ARNOLD by his cousin

Correspondence to Snell BABBITT - 1800s

Family Correspondence with Index to some of the letters however, they are not in any particular order at this time.

          Original Documents of Albert BROWNE re: western lands in Michigan including Deeds

          Misc. Letters to Anne Elizabeth BROWNE

          TURNER to BROWNE Correspondence

         

 

BOX 2 - FAMILY PHOTOS

 

Folders of old family pictures and portraits.  (Some photos were provided by Sue HANLEY and were contained in a metal box)  - Include pictures of Agnes F. BROWNE, Frances HASKINS, Susan HASKINS, Frances E. BROWNE, Frank J. HASKINS, Ruth BROWNE, William B. BROWNE, Agnes Fleming MACCALLUM

 

          1 Folder of tintype family photos (3)

 

          1 Folder of Photos of Places:  farms and houses (Most all are identified)

                  

          1 Folder of family photos (Unidentified)

 

          Eleazer BROWNE Homestead Reunion Photos

         

          Various Old School/Class Photos:

(All are identified as well as most of the people or children)

                   - Walden District School

                   - Mark Hopkins School, 6th Grade Class Photo - 1926 (Most children identified)

                   - Drury Academy Class Photo about 1888 (Most children identified)

                   - Class Photo with Susan M. Haskins identified - date unknown

                   - Middle District School Class Photo - date unknown

- First Faculty of North Adams Normal School (1897) - Lyman Allen, Skeele, Murdock,      Pearson, Sliarus, Bartlett, Mrs. Allen Parker, Guss

 

          1 Folder of Misc. Photos (unidentified)

 

 

BOX 3 – ELIHU HAWKES MATERIAL

 

Misc. Manuscripts

          - Genealogy information for VAN DYKE and Elihu S. HAWKES

- Abstract of Title for lands owned by First Congregational Church by S. Proctor THAYER Jan. 1889

- Agreement between Dr. E.S. HAWKES and the deacons of the First Congregational Church

-         E.S. HAWKES and W. GOULD Deeds and Statements

-         Misc. Deeds and Notes

 

          Elihu S. HAWKES – Misc. Manuscripts:

- E.S. HAWKES Reminiscences of North Adams

- A statement regarding his land dealing with the Congregational Church

          Transcript Article dated 11/20/1934 and 11/24/1934.

-         The Medical Fraternity

-         Address to the ladies of the Martha Washington Society

-         Writing about baptism

-         Poem

-         Original Justice of the Peace Appointment of Elihu S. HAWKES

 

Resolutions on the Death of Dr. E.S. HAWKES and Joseph C. HAWKES

-         Hand written obituary for Dr. HAWKES

-         Resolutions

-         Deeds from Adams Bank

 

Misc. Deeds and Notes

                   - Copy of Last Will and Testament of Pardon HAYNES dated Dec. 26, 1833

 

E.S. HAWKES and W. GOULD Deeds and Statements

 

Maps and Surveys of Ashland Street – Maps in RBB FF, Drawer 5

 

HAWKES Old Deeds and Notes (2 Folders)

- Re:  Hawkes Property (+ related to 1st Congregational Church, Main and Ashland St.)

 

HAWKES Property – Main and Ashland Streets (Deeds and Notes)

 

Swamp property deeds

 

Papers relating to settlement with Adaline H. COOK and Elizabeth J. HUDSON

 

Abstract of J.L. HARRISON re:  First Congregational Church

 

HAWKES Deeds and misc. manuscripts relating to First Congregational Church

 

 

BOX 4 - DEEDS & MISC. MANUSCRIPTS (Includes fragile items)

 

Selected Deeds and Legal Papers:

 

1.       Elihu A. MCDONALD to William B. ARNOLD, Administrative Deed recorded Apr. 17, 1873 in Book 4, Page 195 filed in Vermont.  Property located in Glastonbury, VT.

 

2.     E.R. MORTON of Adams to Calvin B. COOK of Williamstown, Mortgage Deed dated Feb. 22, 1870 and recorded Feb. 24, 1870 in Berkshire County, Book 119, Page 387.  Property located in Adams, MA.

 

3.     Dennis THAYER of Clarksburg to Velorous CHILSON of Clarksburg, Quitclaim Deed dated May 3, 1864 and recorded Jul. 29, 1864 in Berkshire County, Book 99, Page 231.  Property located in Clarksburg, MA.

 

4.     Oliver ARNOLD, Shubel A. NASH, Orson WELLS, George W. BRADFORD and Larvina BLISS, Trustees of the Methodist Episcopal Church and Society in Adams to Larvina BLISS for $30, Slip 1, dated Jun. 13, 1846.

-         Conveyance to Geo. W. BRADFORD Feb. 16, 1852

-         Conveyance to C.A. STEWART Jun. 20, 1855

-         Conveyance to S. THAYER Jan. 1, 1858

 

5.     David RICHOMND of Adams to Elihu S. HAWKES of Adams, Warranty Deed dated Apr. 6, 1857; Recorded Apr. 9, 1857 in Berkshire County in Book 84, Page 153.

 

6.     Oliver HARRINGTON of Adams to John PATTERSON of Adams, Quitclaim Deed dated May 7, 1860.  No recording information.

 

7.     Truman P. SNYDER of Adams to George B. WHIPPLE and William H. SANFORD Mortgage Deed dated Oct. 4, 1860; Recorded Oct. 8, 1867 in Berkshire County in Book 110, Page 569.

 

8.     Josiah ROBINSON of Adams to PRESTON & BROWN, Sheriff’s Deed [Judgment against M. WHIPPLE] real estate in Adams dated Jan. 29, 1872; Recorded Feb. 19, 1872 in Berkshire County Book 123, Page 322.

 

9.     Reuben and Sarah M. WHITMAN of Adams to James HUNTER, et al., Quitclaim Deed dated Dec. 31, 1862; Recorded Jan. 2, 1863 in Berkshire County Book 94, Page 443.

 

10.  Mary M. TOMPKINS of Adams, wife of Albert D. TOMPKINS to Charlotte E. HODGE of Adams, Quitclaim Deed dated Feb. 6, 1862; Recorded Feb. 26, 1862 in Berkshire County Book 94, Page 287.

 

11.    Charles H. MORY of Stamford, VT to Myron HAYDON of Clarksburg, MA, Warranty Deed dated May 30, 1867.  No recording information.  Property located in Clarksburg, MA.

 

12.  Jory WITT of Adams to Mary J. MOOR of Adams, Warranty Deed dated May 8, 1869; Recorded May 26, 1869 in Berkshire County Book 117, Page 295.  Property located in Adams, MA.

 

13.  Edmond D. MERANVILL and William H. CAUGENG(?) of Savoy to Sarah L. WORTHINGTON of Colerain, Franklin County, MA – “to her separate use and contract without interference of her husband,” Warranty Deed dated Feb. 27, 1858; Recorded Apr. 15, 1858 in Berkshire County Book 85, Page 372.  Property located in Savoy, MA.

 

14.  Amasa W. RICHARDSON, W.W. FREEMAN, W.S. BLACKINTON, Levi L. BROWN of Adams to Mrs. Allis SLATTERY of Adams, Warranty Deed dated Mar 5, 1864; Recorded Apr. 5, 1864 in Berkshire County, Book 100, Page 381.  Property located in Adams.

 

15.  Abbott L. HODGE of Adams to Aoman L. MILLARD of Adams, Warranty Deed dated Feb. 2, 1869; Recorded Feb. 5, 1869 in Berkshire County Book 115, Page 257.  Property located in Adams, MA.

 

16.  Samuel B. KINGSBURY of Adams to David RICHMOND of Adams, Deed dated Apr. 2, 1855 (Copy of Original).  No recording information.  Property located in Adams, MA.

 

17.  Seymour A. and Mary G. GOODELL of New Ashford, MA to Norman G. BAXTER of New Ashford, MA, Warranty Deed dated Mar. 14, 1850; Recorded Mar. 16, 1850 in Berkshire County Book 71, Page 295.  Property located in New Ashford, MA.

 

18.  Benjamin SMITH of Adams and L.C. HOMER of Williamstown to Patrick BENK(?) of Adams, Warranty Deed dated Mar. 27, 1866; Recorded Mar. 29, 1866 in Berkshire County, Book 105, Page 565. 

 

19.  Dexter SMITH of Adams to “the inhabitants of the Northern Division of School District Number Five in Adams,” Warranty Deed dated Apr. 30, 1847; Recorded Feb. 10, 1873 in Berkshire County, Book 123, Page 493.  Property located in Adams North Village.

 

20. Nancy HARRINGTON of Adams to Sarah W. NOTINGHAM of Adams, Warranty Deed dated Oct. 23, 1868; Recorded Oct. 23, 1868 in Berkshire County, Book 114, Page 339.  Property located in Adams North Village.

 

21.  Benjamin W. COOK of Stamford, Bennington Co., VT, to Charles O. HALL of North Adams, Deed dated Apr. 5, 1864; Recorded Jan. 4, 1865 in Book 15, Page 588.  Property located in Stamford, VT.

 

22. Laruna BLISS of Adams to Johnson D. STEWART of Adams, Warranty Deed dated Feb. 14, 1852; Recorded Feb. 17, 1852 in Berkshire County, Book 70, Page 381.  Property located in Adams, MA.

 

23. John A. DAY of Stamford, Bennington Co., VT, to Gilbert STAFFORD of Stamford, VT, Quitclaim Deed dated May 2, 1857; Recorded May 2, 1857 in Book 13, Page 75.  Property located in Stamford, VT.

 

24. James M. PEAK of Stamford, Bennington Co., VT to Eli T. CLARK of Adams, MA, Warranty Deed dated Sep. 4, 1869; Recorded Sep. 8, 1869 in Book 23, Page 46.  Property located in Pownal, Bennington Co., VT.

 

25. Nuby HERRINGTON of Pownal, Bennington Co., VT to David RICHARDSON of Adams, MA, Quitclaim Deed dated Nov. 27, 1873.  No recording information.  Property located in Pownal, VT.

 

26. Alvin SANFORD of Adams to Oliver ARNOLD, Nathan B. BLISON and Harvey ARNOLD of Adams, Deed dated Jun. 8, 1830 (Copy of Original), Recorded Jul. 6, 1830.  Property located in Adams, MA.

 

27. William W. GALLAT of Adams to John W. HASKINS of Adams, Warranty Deed dated Apr. 13, 1867; Recorded Apr. 27, 1867 in Berkshire County, Book 110, Page 85.  Property located in Adams North Village.

 

28. Eleazer KETCHUM of Clarksburg to Ebenezer COPELAND of Stamford, Bennington Co., VT, Warranty Deed dated Jan. 29, 1864; Recorded Apr. 5, 1864 in Book 13, Page 567.

 

29. John STROUD of Stamford Co., VT to Peter Cullen of Clarksburg, Warranty Deed dated Mar. 16, 1864; Recorded Jun. 1, 1864 in Berkshire County, Book 102, Page 109.  Property located in Clarksburg, MA.

 

30. Jacob B. CHILSON of Clarksburg to Dennis THAYER of Clarksburg, Mortgage Deed dated Dec. 27, 1865; Recorded Dec. 9, 1871 in Berkshire County, Book 105, Page 366.  Satisfaction Notation on Deed recorded Aug. 21, 1873 in Book 105, Page 366.  Property located in Clarksburg, MA.

 

31.  Michael SANFORD and H. TOWNSEND of Adams to Fanny HICKS of Adams, Warranty Deed dated Aug. 1, 1868; Recorded Aug. 26, 1868 in Berkshire County, Book 114, Page 151.  Property located in Adams North Village.

 

32. James E. MARSHALL of Adams to ISAAC HEDGES of Adams, Warranty Deed dated Jan. 6, 1848; Recorded May 29, 1848 in Berkshire County, Book 66, Page 411.  Property located in North Adams, MA.

 

33. Michael SANFORD and H. TOWNSEND of Adams to John S. MUFFETT and Sarah MUFFETT of Adams, Warranty Deed dated Oct. 30, 1868; Recorded Feb. 25, 1869 in Berkshire County, Book 115, Page 333.  Property located in Adams, MA.

 

34. Lewis STAFFORD of Readsboro, Bennington Co., VT to David KEITH and Jackson W. WILEY of Readsboro, Warranty Deed dated Feb. 22, 1867; Recorded Mar. 19, 1867 in Readsboro, VT in Book 13, Page 286.  Property located in Readsboro, VT.

 

Folder of Misc. Manuscripts

 

Town of Adams Tax Assessment and List of Persons - September 1828 (Original – very fragile)

 

 

BOX 5a – GENEALOGICAL INFORMATION  (Books)

 

          RECORD BOOK (1908-1952):

          William Bradford BROWNE’S list of acquisitions noting when each piece was acquired and from whom; includes a description of the article.  Includes record of furniture and furnishings in the W.B. BROWNE home; record kept by William B. BROWNE and updated by Ruth B. BROWNE.

 

BOOK compiled by William Bradford Browne of Newspaper Obituaries, Articles and Signatures (Autographs):

All entries are of a genealogical nature.  An index is written in the front of the book and includes the names of:  ARNOLD, ALDEN, BABBITT, BARTLETT, BRADFORT, BENNETT, BROWNE, BLANCHARD, BYRAN, BISSELL, BROWN, BRADLEY-MARTIN, CARPENTER, COBB, DIGHTON, DUNGAN, EDSON, GARDNER, HOLDEN, HAVILAND, HUTCHINSON, JENKS, LATHAM, MOWRY, MARBURY, MAXEY, MINRO, OLDING, PETERSON, SAVOY, SCOTT, SHERMAN, VAUGHN, VALLETT, WARD, WARREN, WHITE, WHITMAN

 

BOOK OF OBITUARIES – Indexed

                   Names include BABBITT, BROWNE, JACKSON, JENKS, and TAYLOR

 

          FAMILY RECORD BOOK of Eleazer and Sarah BROWN of East Hoosuck [Hoosac]

 

GENEALOGY BOOK of BROWNE Family Genealogy and related families (Indexed) - (Much of the family information goes way back and some have connections to the Mayflower):

 

          ADAMS, ALDEN, ANDREWS, ANGELL, ARCHER, ARNOLD, AVERY, BABBITT, BABCOCK, BANGS, BARTLETT, BENNETT, BILLINGS, BISSELL, BLANCHARD, BOWERMAN, BRADFORD, BREWSTER, BROWN, BYRAM, CALLICOTT, CARPENTER, CHILD, CLARK, COBB, COLE, COOKE, CONGDON, COOPER, DAGGETT, DAVIS, DAY, DEANE, DENNISON, DELANO, DIGHTON, DOTEY, DRYDEN-MARBURY, EDSON, ELLIS, ENSIGN, EVERETT, FLEMING, FULLER, GARDNER, GARRISOON, GREENE, HALL, HARRISON, HAVILAND, HAWKINS, HEARNDEN, HEWITT, HICKS, HOLBROOK, HOWLAND, HUNTING, INMAN, JACKSON, JENKS, JOHNSON, KING, LUTHER, MACOMBER, MAKEY, MASON, MASTERSON, MCCALLUM, MERRICK, MOTT, MOWRY, MULLINS, MUNNO, MYERS, NICHOLS, PACKARD, PALMER, PEABODY, PECK, PERRY, PETERSON, PORTER,  PLUM, PRENTICE, RAYNER, REED, RICHARDSON, ROSS, SCOTT, SHAW, SHEPARD, SHERMAN, SHORT, SHUTTLESWORTH, SMITH, SOULE, STEVENS, TEFFT, THOMPSON, TILLEY, UPHAM, VAUGHN, VINTON, VOSE, WADSWORTH, WARD, WARREN, WATSON, WHITE, WHITMAN, WHITTEMORE, WILLIAMS, WILLIS, WILMARTH, WOOD, WOODCOCK

 

 

BOX 5b – GENEALOGICAL INFORMATION

 

Folder of Misc. Genealogy Information/Material: 

- Families of BABBITT, BLACKINTON, BROWN, CADY, JACKSON

- Scans of Wedding Day photos of Charles Albert BROWNE, Sr. and Susan (MCCALLUM) BROWNE – June 9, 1869.

 

          William B. BROWNE – Mayflower Book Plate

 

          BRADFORD Coat of Arms

 

          Bio of William B. BROWNE by his daughter Ruth Blackinton BROWNE

 

          Folder of JENKS Family Genealogy Information

 

          Folder of Correspondence re: publication of JENKS Genealogy

 

Folder re:  Stuart C. HASKINS including Genealogical Information on the HASKINS Family line; “The Story of My Life” and the HASKINS-BROWNE Connection by Stuart C. Haskins Sr.

 

“Song of the Months” by Stuart C. HASKINS with Resume and letter

 

Folder re:  Margaret P. HASKINS includes her personal Memoirs (wife of Stuart C. Haskins Sr.)

 

          Folder re:  Susan McCallum Haskins - Remembrances and Funeral Arrangements

 

          MCCALLUM Letters, Family Photos, Postcards and Misc.

 

Genealogical Family Fan Chart by William Bradford Browne tracing ancestors of Sarah BROWNE HASKINS (his sister) to the Mayflower period - RBB FF, Drawer 6.

 

          RUTH BROWNE’S Memoirs

 

          ISAAC BROWNE’S Memoirs

 

          Info on Ruth BROWNE

          Ruth BROWNE Receives Carol Hess Award

Ruth B. BROWNE – Memorial Service and articles around her time of death (March 23, 2002)

 

Misc. Folder Includes:

- “The Trail of the Captives” by William B. BROWNE (1948)

          Research on the exact route of the old Mohawk Trail to Canada, which was followed by the French and Indians in their attack on Ft. Massachusetts.  It was also the route followed by captives taken at the Fort as they were taken to Canada.

                   - Over Pathways of the Past

                   - Snell BABBITT Article reprinted from the Transcript Jan. 12, 1860.

- “An Old Time Bear Hunt – Thrilling Experience of a Youthful Sportsman on Pine Cobble” by John R. BLACKINTON.

 

 

BOX 6 – FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH

 

          Coral Club Information   

 

BOX 7 - FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH

 

          Rev. Elizabeth WHEELER

          "Three Chapters of Our Church History"

          Various reports and history information

          News Clippings

          Rose Window/Stained Glass Windows

          Notes on Ministers for "Historical Highlights and Happenings"

          Commemorative Booklets and Programs

          100th Anniversary Skit

150th Anniversary Program "What Our Church Means to Me"

Miscellaneous

 

BOX 8 – DRURY HIGH SCHOOL

 

          Class of 1912

          Class of 1925 (Reunions) - Donated by Roger CIRONE of Williamstown 7/3/2002

          Class of 1931 (Reunions)

          Class of 1931 (Reunions) Photographs - 45th, 55th, 60th

          Drury High School Carrot Awards 1987

          The Drury Casket (2 Original Newspapers)

                   March 30, 1858

                   January, 1859

         

BOX 9 - NORTH ADAMS PUBLIC LIBRARY

 

Misc. North Adams Library

North Adams Public Library Newspaper Articles

 

 

BOX 10 – MISCELLANEOUS

 

Bibliography of William Bradford BROWNE – Reference Materials

William B. BROWNE, “Over Pathways of the Past” Article listings with dates and page (2 copies)

          Local Business Ephemera (business cards):

                   S. WOODHEAD, Practical Plumber, 1886

                   C.F. BARDEN, Contractor and Builder (Built GAR Building) 1896

          Calico Fabric Printed in North Adams – 1835 by Caleb TURNER

          Newspaper Histories:

                   Berkshire Sunday Democrat

                   Hoosac Valley News

                   The Evening Herald

Info on Sons of Veterans, GAR Lincoln Camp 9; C.D. Sanford Post 79; Division of North Adams, MA

                   Roster

                   Constitution

                   Medals

          Cornerstone of G.A.R. Building in North Adams:  Correspondence and Dedication        

          North Adams Water System - History

          Rowe Atomic Plant – Short news article – date and source not identified.

          North Adams Regional Hospital – Advertisement for a Benefit in 1887

          North Adams State College Centennial Edition of the North Adams Transcript

                   - August 30, 1994                      

          Ruth BROWNE Donation Agreements

          North Adams History Items (Newspaper Clippings)

          Adams Quakers

          Mass MOCA

          Miscellaneous

          Framed Picture of William Bradford BROWNE

 

 

BOX 11 – MISC. ALPHABETICAL FILE BOX OF RUTH B. BROWNE

 

Folders A-Z of Miscellaneous Correspondence of RBB.  Some is of a genealogical nature and names include:  ARCHER, BABBITT, BLACKINTON, BURTON (Boy's of Bob Hill), DUNCAN, FURNESS, HOWE, HASKINS, HEGGIE, HINKLE, JARRETT, MCDONNELL, MARCHAM, MILLARD, SMITH, STEVENS.                                                 

 

SCRAPBOOKS

 

SCRAPBOOK 1:

 

SCBK

PAGE

DATE

ITEM

ITEM TYPE

SOURCE

1

4

Jun 7,

?

William B. Browne by Mary Lovering Holman

Letter to Editor

Transcript

1

4

 

"Mister Sawyer"

Partial Article

 

1

4

Dec 29, 1926

Genealogy by William B. Browne

News Article

 

1

5-6

 

Mayflower History Comes To Light – Newly Discovered Letters of John Eliot, Secured by an American Collector, Show that the Pilgrim Ship Made Many Voyages

News Article

 

1

6

 

Tyler House Oldest Homestead At Adams – Quakers Helped First Owner to Move Building Near Shop

News Article

 

1

7

Aug 22, 1926

Pilgrim Progress

Picture

 

1

7

 

Pilgrim Procession

Postcard

 

1

9

 

Seek Full Roster Of Soldiers of 76 from North Berkshire

News Article

 

1

9

Dec 22, 1922

Silver Wedding Anniversary Of Mr. & Mrs. John F. Arnold

News Article

Transcript

1

10

 

Easter And Life Everlasting

News Article

 

1

10

Apr 19, 1925

150th Anniversary Of Battle [Lexington and Concord] Observed by Sons And Daughters Of American Revolution in North Adams

News Article

 

1

10

Jun 27, 1925

Plan Was Detached From Book And Lost  by William B. Browne

Letter to Editor

Berkshire Eagle

1

11-12

Nov 3, 1921

Main Trails Of Hoosac Mountain

News Article

The Recorder

1

13

 

Wilder Gold Medal Conferred On                                 Lue Gim Gong of  North Adams

News Article

 

1

14

 

Indian Trail:  Mohawk Trail indicated in red; First road over mountain indicated in black

Map

Part of Topo-graphical Map

1

15-16

Nov 4, 1921

Indian Trails Of Hoosac Mountain                     Dated Oct 1921 (continuation of story on pages 11 & 12)

News Article

 

1

17

 

Lincoln And The Mass

News Article

 

1

17

 

Can Europe Save America?

News Article

 

1

17

 

Misconceptions As To America's Part  In The War (WWI)

News Article

 

1

18

 

The Debts And Uncle Shylock

News Article

 

1

18

1928

The British Pilgrims

News Article

 

1

19

 

Tell of Hancock's Earliest Settlers

News Article

 

1

10

 

Answers to Inquiries

News Article

 

1

20

 

Handsome Book Is Local Product -  Genealogy Of Babbitt Family  of North Adams        

News Article

 

1

21

1928

Highlights Of Local History [of North Adams] by William B. Browne

News Article

 

1

21

Jun 6,

?

English Views Of United States                                  by William B. Browne

Letter to Editor

Manchester Guardian

1

21

May 21, ?

English Views Of United States                                  by Stephen Bowden

Letter to Editor

Manchester Guardian

1

22

Sep 5-11, 1909

"Views Of Main Street" [North Adams]                                                                                          3 pictures, one dated 1850 and Aerial View of city on the back

Pictures

Transcript (old Home Week Supplement)

1

23

Feb 7, 1928

The English Press And America                                   by William B. Browne

Letter to Editor

Guardian

1

23

 

Uncle Sam, Imperialist                                            by G. Monroe Royce

News Article

 

1

23

May 21, ?

English Views of the United States by Stephen Bowden

Letter to Editor

Manchester Guardian

1

24

Aug 5, 1925

A Transcript Contribution To Authenticity Of Bixby Letter

News Article

Boston Evening Transcript

1

25

May 21, 1928

English Views Of The United States by William B. Browne

Letter to Editor

Guardian

1

25

May 15, 1928

London's :Glad Hander"                                        by Albert S. Crockett

Letter to Editor

New York Times

1

27

 

St. Paul's Universalist Church To Be Future Elks Home

News Article

 

1

28

Mar 8,

?

William B. Browne Named Register Of Deeds

News Article

 

1

28

May 1,

?

Unearths Deed That Was Recorded In 1807 [North Adams]

News Article

 

1

28

Feb 1929

Historical Photostats Are Given To Historical Museum  by William B. Browne [relating to history of Ft. Massachusetts)

News Article

 

1

28

 

41 Local Names Of Men Who Fought In  Battle Of Bennington {missing)

Article

 

1

29-30

1929

State Bar Pays Tribute To                                      Chief Justice J.A. Aiken

News Article

 

1

31

Nov 1928

Browne Is Elected Register Of Deeds – Has Margin of 909 Over Cyril Meyette

News Article

 

1

32

Sep 9, 1928

Lake/Mountain Picture - Not Identified

Picture

Boston Herald

1

33

 

Priscilla and John Alden

Photo from newspaper

 

1

34-35

 

Race Suicide Not Evidenced by 5,000,000 Alden Kindred - Reunion Of John Alden Family

News Article

 

1

35

 

Priscilla Alden's Kitchen

News Picture

 

1

36

 

Great Britain and The States - Independence Day Reflections – Our Reason for Thankfulness

News Article

 

1

37-38

May 1928

New Ashford 100th Anniversary Of  Church

News Article with Pictures

 

1

39

Mar 3, 1920

Are There Men Who Want An                              Anglo-American War?

Letter to Editor

Public Ledger

1

40

1927

James R. Savery Banquet Guest                               At Richmond Hotel

News Article

 

1

40

 

Exhibit Of Glass At Public Library [North Adams]

News Article

 

1

41-42

 

Transition Of Boston

News Article

 

1

42

 

Most Puritans Not Holy

News Article

 

1

43

 

New Bedford And Dartmouth Circa 1778

News Article with Picture

 

1

44

 

Ancient Masonic Quarters (Cole House in Cheshire) Included In July 4th Rally

News Article

 

1

45

 

George III And America                                             by Sir John Marriott, M.P.

News Article

 

1

46

Feb 7, 1928

Britain And America Strong Enough To Stop Warfare On Merchant Ships

News Article

 

1

47

 

Why Two Institutes?                                           Article on Genealogy

News Article

 

1

48

 

Principles Of Puritans Need Of World Today

News Article

 

1

49

 

Old Bradford House, 252 Years Old, Will Feature 200th Anniversary Week

News Article

 

1

49

 

Revolutionary War Graves Decorated (names listed)

News Article

 

1

50

Aug 13, 1927

150th celebration of the Battle of Bennington

News Article

 

1

50

Oct 20, 1926

Letter to Editor by I.S. Browne re: exploders to blast Hell Gate

Letter to Editor

 

1

51

 

John Quincy Adams Letter at Library [North Adams Public Library] – Written by President to Elihu S. Hawkes on May 28, 1844

News Article

 

1

51

 

Letter to editor re:  old glass display by Wm. B. Browne

Letter to Editor

Transcript

1

52

 

Finding Racial Origins

Letter to Editor

The Republican

1

52

 

Address on Tunnel for Woman’s Club [North Adams] by William B. Browne

News Article

 

1

53

 

Valuable Book Placed on File – Record of all Marriages of North Adams and Adams between 1760-1835

News Article

 

1

53

 

Old Soldiers Letter – Written from a Far Distant Land in 1836.

News Article

 

1

54

Dec 10, 1923

A Catholic Tribute to Puritan Pioneers

News Article

 

1

55

Jan 2,

?

Remembers First Trip Through Tunnel (Mrs. Augusta Sweeley)

News  Pictures

Springfield Sunday Union and Republican

1

56

 

First Woman to Go Through Tunnel – Mrs. Augusta Sweeley

News Article

 

1

57

 

High Honor for Native of This City – Dr. Charles A. Browne appointed Chief of U.S. Bureau of Chemistry

News Article

 

1

57

 

Who is She?

News Article

 

1

In Between Pages

Feb 28, 1922

An Ancient House Near Boston – Abraham Brown House, Watertown, MA

Brochure

 

1

58

Oct 29, 1923

Three Boulders Set up as Memorial to Mark Site of Indian Village at Top of Exeter Hill

News Article

The Evening Bulletin, Providence

1

59-60

 

Religious Sect Found Godly Prosperity, Peace Here

News Article

 

1

61-62

Feb 12, 1928

Antique Hunters Comb Garrets of Farm Houses in Berkshires

News Article with Pictures

 

1

63-66

 

Upper East Side, Newest Neighborhood in Providence, was Farm Land and Negro Village Before 1890; Picnic Grounds and Orchards Made it Paradise for Small Boys, Scenes of Juvenile Race Riots

News Article with Pictures

 

1

66

May 5,

?

American Libraries, by William B. Browne

Letter to Editor

Manchester Guardian

1

66

 

Heroes of Lanesboro

News Article

 

1

67

 

War Prisoner with General Burgoyne – Captured British Officer’s Picture of America a Century and a Half Ago

News Article

 

1

67

 

Tells the History of Bennington, VT

News Article

 

1

69-70

 

Ft. Massachusetts Historical Association – Interesting Addresses made in Odd Fellows’ Hall

News Article

 

1

71-73

 

Hoosac Tunnel, 50 Years Old, Caused Strife in Legislature for Over 25 Years

News Article with Pictures

 

1

73

 

Bakeovens and Boilers

News Article

 

1

74

 

Hill Town Neighbors by David Malcolm and response by Will B. Browne

News Article

 

1

75-76

 

Old Shorthand Records Puzzle Warwick Officials – Ancient Town Documents Written in Cipher as Far Back as 1648

News Article with Picture

 

1

77

Jun 2, 1929

Old Babbit Ax:  Factory had Quality Product

News Article

 

1

78

 

Photograph of Salford’s Charter

News Picture

Manchester Guardian

1

79-80

 

The Modern Quiet Aspect of Lexington and Concord a Hundred and Fifty-Four Years After

News Article with Picture

 

1

81

 

Reprint of Engraving of Battle of Lexington

News paper reprint

 

1

82

 

Pittsfield Remembers Famous Sons – Gov. George Briggs

News Article

 

1

83

 

Photos of Monuments – Massachusetts Memorial & Vermont Memorial

Photos

 

1

 

Aug 15, 1931

Dedication of Monuments erected by The Commonwealth of Mass. And the State of Vermont

Program

 

1

84

1931

Invitation to Dedication of the Bennington Battle Monument

Original Invitation

 

1

85

Feb 23, 1932

Brilliant Affair Honors Geo. Washington’s Memory

News Article

Transcript

1

86

Feb 22, 1932

1732-1932 Washington Bi-Centenary Banquet and Celebration held at Richmond Hotel in North Adams

Original Program

 

1

87

 

Our Hill-Town Neighbors by David Malcolm (re: dedication of Mt. Greylock)

News Article

 

1

88

June 30, 1933

Invitation to dedication of Mt. Greylock War Memorial

Original Invitation and Program

 

1

91-92

Apr 9, 1934

Early Berkshire Speculations in the “Guyandot Land Company” by William B. Browne

News Article

 

1

93

 

Governor Briggs Listed Among Country’s Great

News Article

 

1

94

 

King George and President Roosevelt

Newspaper Picture

 

1

95

 

To the Voters of the City of North Adams – Vote for Irving H Gamwell for Clerk of Courts and William B Browne Register of Deeds

Political Advertisement

 

1

96

 

Never Long Enough – why Gamwell and Browne should be elected

News Article

 

1

97

 

Vote to Re-elect William B. Browne Register of Deeds

Political Advertisement

 

1

97

Aug 18, 1949

Harry C. Browne, at 71st Milestone

News Article

 

1

98

Aug 19, 1935

Catamount Hill Reunion Draws Many to Colrain

News Article

 

1

98

1949

Susan B. Anthony House to be Sold

News Article

 

1

99

Aug 7, 1935

Historical Society Gets $10,000 Bequest-Plans Building for its Relics

News Article

 

1

100-102

 

Indian Trails and Early Roads Subject of Talk Given by William B. Browne

News Article

 

1

103-104

Sep. 1935

Cheshire Pioneers’ Graves Saved from Oblivion

Article with Pictures

Transcript

1

105-109

Jan 28, 1934

Clinton Q. Richmond Dies Suddenly of Heart Attack; President of Berkshire Street Railway and North Adams National Bank; Savior of North Adams State Teachers College; Builder of Richmond Hotel and Theater; Former State Senator – Tributes to Richmond

News Article with Picture

 

1

110-111

 

History of Industry in North Adams Given, by William B. Browne

News Article

 

1

112

 

Letter to Editor re: Grand Opera from New York, by William B. Browne

Letter to Editor

Manchester Guardian

1

113-114

Apr 26, 1905

The Story of the Blackinton Mill by O.A. Archer

News Article

 

1

115

Feb 13, 1936

Berkshire’s Syringe Bush by William B. Browne

Letter to Editor

Republican

1

115

 

Paul Revere, Craftsman

News Article

 

1

115

 

More About the Mayflower by William B. Browne

Letter to Editor

Transcript

1

115

Jul 29, 1930

Rector of St. John’s Church in Washington, Conn; Rev. George I. Browne

News Article

 

1

115

Aug 24, 1931

Remarks at Williamstown

Letter to Editor

Republican

1

116

 

Portrait of a well-known Dalton Priest; Rev. Dr. P.H. Gallen

Picture

 

1

117

 

Adams – Old Items Shown at Public Library – Letter from Pres. Jefferson among exhibits by William B. Browne

News Article

 

1

117

 

Retired Teacher Dies at 95 Years; Mrs. Rhoda A. Barnicoat

Obituary with Picture

 

1

118

 

A Presidential Visit in February 1899 – Pres. Roosevelt’s visit tomorrow recalls to occasion when Pres. McKinley…

Article with Picture

 

1

119

 

The Church and the School

News Article

 

1

119

 

Answers re: Genealogy and Local History Research

News Article

 

1

119

Feb 20, 1933

Mt. Greylock’s Name Believed to be Derived from its Frequent Adornment by Cloud or Mist by William B. Browne

Letter to Editor

Republican

1

120

 

Back to Gov. Bradford

Letter to Editor

Herald

1

120

 

The President’s English; William B. Browne writes letter to London Daily Times

News Article

 

1

120

 

Pride of Ancestry by William B. Browne

Letter to Editor

Transcript

1

121

 

As Lookers-On See US

News Article

 

1

121

 

The President’s English

News Article

 

1

121

 

Answers re: Arnold Descendants by William B. Browne

News Article

 

1

122

Sep 4, 1930

Indians Witness Bourne Trading Post Dedication

Newspaper Picture

New Bedford Evening Standard

1

123

 

Armorial Heirs Chide Upstairs at Round Table

News Article

 

1

124

 

Hall of Records Plans Approved for Berkshire County; Report is Made on Colonial Research done by Wm. B. Browne

News Article

 

1

125-127

1905

The Early Industries of North Adams and the Men who Laid the Foundation of Its Success

News Article

 

1

127

Nov 30, 1915

Old Journals Interesting – Early Newspapers of Adams

News Article

Transcript

1

128

Mar 4, 1938

Big Storm of ’88 Has Birthday Next Friday

News Article

 

1

129

 

Allowing for Some Stretching, Tall Blizzard Tales are True re: Blizzard of ‘88

News Article

 

1

130

 

Summer Street Fifty Years Ago and Eagle Street After Blizzard of ‘88

Newspaper Pictures

 

1

132

 

Windsor Print Works

News Article

 

1

133-134

 

Charles E. Wells Interestingly Outlines Conception and Execution of the Great Bore

News Article

 

1

135

 

Grave on Berkshire Hill is Carved From Big Glacial Rock

News Article with Picture

 

1

136

Dec 17, 1887

Baptist Church Reunion

News Article

Hoosac Valley News

1

137

Oct 7, 1940

Prominent at Church Observance of the First Congregational Church

Article with Picture

Transcript

1

138139

 

Calls for Vocal Faith at Church Anniversary; First Congregational Church

News Article

 

1

141

Jan 15, 1938

Mrs. Sheldon, 85, Scientist and Historian Dies

News Article

 

1

142

Feb 9, 1940

Just 65 Years Ago, Berkshire Proved That Oliver Wendell Holmes Could be Wrong – re: completion of Hoosac Tunnel

News Article with Picture

 

1

143

1947

Old Quaker Meeting House has Service – Ancient House of Worship Used

News Article with Picture

Transcript

1

144

 

History of the Pilgrims and Puritans

News Article

 

 

 

SCRAPBOOK 2:

 

SCBK

PAGE

DATE

ITEM

ITEM TYPE

SOURCE

2

17

 

Hawthorne At North Adams - by Bliss Perry

News Article

 

2

17

May 18,

?

Historical Statement Re: Irish Contributed A Larger Percentage Of Men To The Continental Army Than Any Race

Letter to Editor

Transcript

2

17

May 18,

?