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TABLE OF CONTENTSInventory |
Guide to the Flushing Historical Society Collection First Addendum
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Descriptive Summary | ||
| Creator | Flushing Historical Society (Flushing, New York, N.Y.) | |
| Title | Flushing Historical Society Collection First Addendum, | |
| Dates: | 1795-1971 | |
| Abstract: | There are two sub-groups herein, namely, Internal Records of the Society, and Manuscripts Collected by the Society. There are several series within these sub-groups, especially in the latter. The collection measures about three and a half to four cubic feet, consists of both bound volumes and loose papers, totaling about 800 individual items. | |
| Extent: | 18 boxes, 9.8 cubic feet | |
| Identification: | Control # F-2a | |
| Location: | The material is located in the Archives at Queens Library. | |
Historical/Biographical Note
The Flushing Historical Society was founded in 1903 by persons interested in the history of the Village of Flushing, as well as the areas encompassed by the old township. Among some of the early officers or those who occupied offices for long periods were George W. Pople, Robert E. Parsons, George S. Halleran, Frank S. Pokorney, Frances Dondero, Henry L. Bogert and Fannie C. Lowden.
Over the years it began a rather active acquisition program to collect mementos of Flushing's past, and was responsible, as well, for publishing some pamphlets of Flushing. Sometime in the late 1960s, the Society, though not disbanded, became inactive.
The following are descriptions of the records creators found in this collection.
According to a brief history of the Flushing Institute found herein and published by the institute in 1903, the school was incorporated in 1827 and opened the following year with the Rev. Dr. William A. Muhlenberg, as director. The school functioned for the next several years undergoing various vicissitudes, none of which are pertinent here. Its real history did not begin until 1845 when Mr. Ezra Fairchild (d.1854) renewed the school which had become dormant. Upon his death, his son, Elias A. Fairchild (1825-1907), took over the directorship until the school’s closing in 1902.
Aside from the latter Fairchild, the only other name of long-standing connected with the school was Mr. Allen P. Northrop, who died in 1903 the year after the school's closing.
Flushing Institute was a school which attracted boys from not only the local area, but from many states, and several countries. It taught an age group which by modern parlance would be called junior. high and high school.
Upon the school's closing, graduates of the school immediately formed an alumni group called the Flushing Institute Association. The group held annual dinners to draw various members together and to keep alive their school's memory. As the years passed by, and membership waned, the Association became less active, finally dissolving in 1920s.
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Scope and Content Note
All of these manuscripts are described herein with one exception, namely, the Papers of John C. Riker. Because they had been donated earlier, and because of the large volume involved, it was decided to describe them separately and create a separate finding aid.
Some of the series described in this Addendum will be those which supplement materials previously acquired. Such a grouping would be, for example, the Prince Family Papers. Others will be series which are completely new to us. None but a miniscule amount is internal records, that is, records referring to the workings of the Society itself rather than those which were collected by them.
The sub-group Internal Records of the Society is described as follows. This very small group consists of those records originating with the Society, that is, those records which relate something of the organization and structure of the Society, and the events in which they were engaged. This small sub-group is very minor and consists only of the following four series.
Flushing Centennial Celebration - In 1937, Flushing Village celebrated the 100th anniversary of its incorporation. The few documents here in relate to this celebration. They consist of less than half a dozen letters dated October 1937 regarding such topics as expenses involved, participation of groups, and similar. Also included is a large folio size copy of a telegram from the Burgomaster of Vlissingen, Netherlands to John J. Halleran, chairman of the Celebration, as well as a notebook maintained by the Society in which several pages were devoted to listing names of individuals who paid for dinner tickets, seating arrangements and similar. Inserted into it are some letters or memoranda concerning the Centennial and several newspaper clips.
Flushing Tercentenary Celebration - In 1945, the Town of Flushing celebrated the 300th anniversary of its founding. The two documents herein consist of the program of the dedication of the Bowne House as a national shrine to Religious Freedom, and the program of the Opening Ceremonies of the Celebration.
Society Publications - As part of its activity, the Society published ca. 1930s - 1940s some pamphlets, especially under the series titled Famous Men of Flushing. Among these titles was “History of Prince Family and Linnean Gardens,” by William J. Halleran, and “A Discourse on the Amerindians who Inhabited Long Island. N.Y.” by August Kupka. In this small series are found typescripts of some of these titles, these being "reserve copies” or final drafts having news paper clippings on them. Also included are one or two letters and other drafts or carbon copies or background items.
Miscellaneous - This small series consists of several letters and some other items to or from officers or members regarding such topics as having an exhibit, a proposed civic center and the like. Though small in quantity, about 25 items dates cover from about 1903 to 1967.
As a part of this series, we have also retained a small envelope bearing the title, "Old labels that were on gifts". These miscellaneous labels, about a dozen in number, simply gave the name of the Individual who donated a gift to the Society (invariably these were artifact type Items -sword, shaving cup, etc.) and a few words about the significance of the gift. Said gifts are not part of this collection.
The contents of the sub-group Manuscripts Collected by the Society are described below.
All materials will now be described. In all, twelve different groupings exist, namely: Records of the Flushing Institute, Prince Family Papers, Sugden, Thomas D. Memorial Day Service, Drama Group, Hartel, Gertrude Typescripts, United States Selective Service Local Board 173 Miscellaneous Records, Long Island City Miscellaneous Documents, Long Island City Memorial League, Beard, Daniel Carter Miscellaneous Documents, Miscellaneous Documents, Miscellaneous Volumes, Non-Textual Items.
The series Records of the Flushing Institute are described below.
The records in this collection also include those of the Association. The Flushing Institute Records consist of the following sub series: Miscellaneous Documents, Catalogs, Proceedings and Printed Booklets, Scrapbooks, Minutes, Accounts and Photographs.
Miscellaneous Documents - The largest series of records, Miscellaneous Documents cover the years from the 1840s to the 1920s, that is, from the school's inception to just about the demise of the Alumni Association. Some letters to or from Mr. Fairchild are found in this series, as well as some circulars describing the school and similar documents.
1840s - Consists of a broadside dated July 184? explaining the purpose of the school, and written in French and Spanish as well as English; another broadside dated August 1847 listing names of students; a form letter dated Mar 1847 addressed to prospective students; and a form letter dated Jun 15, 1849 addressed to students about to celebrate the July 4th holiday.
1850s - Consists of two issues of The Institute Review, a four page student journal in manuscript dated l857; an issue of Arena, another student publication but imprint rather than manuscript and dated 1852; two letters; an affidavit or statement regarding the Kappa Delta Society; a listing of titles of several tableau evidently performed by the students; and a note regarding the times of closing exercises.
1860s - Consists of two letters addressed to Mr. Fairchild, one of which is from Henry A. Bogert stating that his son's eyes necessitate refraining 'from the use of Books for a while”, another a letter of complaint from Orange Judd about some mischievous play engaged in by the boys; an extract taken from The Flushing Journal of April 15, 1865; a receipted bill by Mr. Fairchild for having received a tuition payment from Mr. Edward Willets; and an announcement of closing exercises.
1870s - Consists of a letter from Mr. Fairchild evidently written to a graduate of the school now settled in New Jersey.
1880s - Consists of a receipted bill involving tuition payments made by Mr. S. C. Jackson; and a program of a theatrical performance put on by the students, and a manuscript poem dated Jun 20, 188?, apparently written by the “farmer-poet”, Bloodgood H. Cutter, titled "To the boys of Flushing Institute’.
1890s - A lengthy letter to Mr. Fairchild from former student John C. P. Randolph reminiscing about school days and commenting on home aspects of his life since.
1900s - Two letters from Mr. Fairchild to a former student, Stuart; a broadsheet containing (copies?) of obituaries of Dr. Fairchild taken from a few different newspapers; a typescript of a poem, The Flushing Institute Bell written by a former pupil upon the death of Mr. Fairchild; two notices of the Association’s annual meeting; and what appears to be fragments of a scrapbook (two issues of American Art Journal were used) containing a very few newspaper clips and an old program and copy of a poem.
N.B. 1910s on - These records are more properly those of the alumni group, the Flushing Institute Association.
1910s - Fifteen documents including several letters to officers of the Alumni Association from members on various topics. One of them reminisces about the Instituted former assistant principal, Allen P. Northup. Also a notice to attend the Association's annual dinner; a printed listing of former students with their last known address, as well as several notices of elections to membership In the Association.
1920s Postcard addressed to C. A. Fairchild (probably a son of Elias) advertising Auction Sale by auctioneer, Harry W. Heumann of "Furnishings of the Fairchild Institute”; a bill of sale resulting from said auction is also undated as is a list of the goods sold. Also included is members election notice and three letters to the Secretary regarding various dinners held.
1930s - There are only three documents in this file. One is an oblong broadside or announcement with the following written on it in bold print. This is the Historic Bell used for “Approximately One Hundred Years at Flushing Institute” and which will be presented by the Institute Association to the Flushing Historical Society at a Special Meeting to be held Monday Evening, May 23, 1938 at the Halleran Agency Office, 137-44 Northern Boulevard, Flushing. The other is a 1939 letter written by an officer of the Association commenting on the success of a dinner held in the hopes of revitalizing the Association. The third is a letter from Edwin Goodall regarding a 1928 motion to disband the association.
Undated - Typed list of former students with their last known address; several blank letterheads; three notes or letters expressing thanks to the Association upon receiving messages of condolences; what appears to be a calling card with the picture of the Institute on it; a printed advertisement notice for the Academy of Fine Art in Flushing; a ribbon used by the Institute's Eunomian Society; and a corrected typescript of two pages giving a rough history of the Association, probably typed in the late 1930s or early 1940s after it had disbanded.
Catalogs, Proceedings and Printed Booklets - Except for the first two categories, Catalogs, and School Closing Exercises, materials in this series are those originating from the Association. As with the previous sub series, this one is not very extensive either.
Catalogs - These catalogs list “Officers and Students” besides the customary description of courses pursued, regulations to be followed, and so forth. They generally average about 20 pages in length. Found here are catalogs for some years in the l840s and the 1870s. The earlier ones bear the name of Green-Brook Family School, the early name of the Flushing Institute.
School Closing Exercises - Programs of closing exercises held at the end of various terms. Most are single sheets and are headed "Order of Exercises”. Names of students are listed followed by the title of a poem or musical piece which they recited as part of the program. Also included is a name card of E.A. Fairchild calling attention to one of the exercises. These documents are dated from the l840s to the 1870s, with the vast majority being for the 1850s.
Proceedings of Annual Dinners - Booklets containing proceedings of several annual dinners held by the Association. One or two associated items also included. These items are dated during the first two decades of the 20th century. There are two proceedings for 1929 and 1923. Also included is a souvenir given out at the twelfth annual dinner (1915), said souvenir consisting of a reproduction of the 1845-6 "Catalogue of the Officers and Students of Green-Brook Family School", and a reproduction of an early 1845 print depicting the school and some of the surrounding greenery.
Flushing Institute History - A fifteen page booklet written by Henry D. Waller titled A Sketch of Flushing Institute. It was published by the Committee in charge of Re-union and Reception, June 13, 1903.
Elias A. Fairchild Memorial - When Elias A. Fairchild died in 1907, the Association wanted to erect a memorial to the man they held in such high esteem. This took the form of a stone over his grave in Flushing Cemetery bearing his name encircled in a wreath underneath which was a replica of the School. The item in this file consists of a booklet containing three photographs of the memorial.
Scrapbooks - There are two scrapbooks in this sub series, one being labeled as the No. 1 volume of the Association, the other as No. 2. Both are rather full. The first is dated 1902 to 1918, the latter 1918 to 1927. They contain newspaper clippings, booklets containing the proceedings of annual dinners, dinner menus, and some related material.
Minutes - Volume of minutes of meetings held by the Association from 1903 to 1928. These minutes are in typescript and bound In loose leaf volume.
Accounts - Account book listing dues paid by members of the Association between 1903 and 1908. A smaller section at the back of the volume was used to record expenses and income from 1912 to 1937.
Photographs - These photographs which number about 40 including several duplicates depict the exterior of the school building from one or two different angles; the principal and some members of the staff, and some students. A few are not readily identifiable, and may have been of some students in later life. Most photographs appear to have been taken sometime in the 1880s or thereabouts. Also included is a photograph album containing about 60 to 70 tintype photos depicting various students and a few teachers. These were probably taken around the l870s. They were all identified originally, but the plates became loosened from their places and slipped out.
The series Prince Family Papers are described below. The documents in this series refer to several members of the Prince Family. An attempt was made to try to divide as best as possible into several members of the family. However, it was not always clear as to where particular documents belonged, so that a few have been placed in certain groups on a tenuous basis.
The sub series Miscellaneous Documents contains the following sub sub series.
William Prince - A bill of lading involving some goods shipped by Mr. Prince on board the ship “Columbia” bound for Liverpool, dated 1823 and an heraldic name plate undated. Also an 1816 form letter addressed by Prince and Thomas Philips as a committee collecting pew rents, probably for St. George Episcopal Church.
William Robert Prince - For the most part, bills and receipts some of them made out to Mrs. Prince, are undated Also included are an undated photograph, an October 24, 1848 issue of the Flushing Pomologist and an October 22, 1842 issue of the Evening Tattler.
LeBaron Bradford Prince - Included in this very miscellaneous series are premiums presented to Mr. Prince as a child by Flushing Public School; receipted bills, several of which are made out to Edward M. Franklin or other individuals; some notices of foreclosures on Flushing property; some miscellaneous items such as a letter written by Mr. Prince to his brother William, a photograph of himself taken in later life; Thanksgiving Day Proclamation issued as governor of New Mexico; a transcript of a court case in which the firm of Prince and Gibson acted as lawyers.
Over and above these are five volumes, some of which have been attributed to Mr. Prince only tenuously for lack of proper identification. They are a register listing members of the International Order of Odd Fellows residing on Long Island; a Register of Republican party members residing on Long Island; an account book apparently listing cattle sold; a note book listing appointments; notations on the weather; notations on meetings to attend, and the like; and a very small account book virtually unused labeled “Cost of House and Well".
Charlotte Prince Henry - Receipted bills, a few of which are made out to Mr. Henry; some miscellaneous items including some business advertisement cards and a wedding invitation.
The sub series Published Books contains the following.
THE MINER’S GUIDE AND METALLURGIST'S DIRECTORY by J.W. Orton published in Cincinnati 1849 Contains bookplate and signature of William Prince.
ELEMENTS OF CHEMISTRY, by James Hyatt published in New York, 1856. Inscribed by Hyatt to W. R. Prince.
THE POMOLOGICAL MANUAL, PART I, by William Robert Prince published in New York, 1832, (2 copies)
THE POMOLOGICAL MANUAL, PART II, by William Robert Prince published in New York, 1831 (signature and bookplate of William J. Halleran)
WHOLESALE CATALOGUE OF AMERICAN TREES, SHRUBS, PLANTS AND SEEDS CULTIVATED...AT...LINNAEN BOTANICAL GARDENS AND NURSERIES...
ORDINANCE REGULATIONS published 1834? signature of William Prince on inside cover.
A NEW SYSTEM OF SWORD EXERCISE by Mathew J. O’Rouke published 1872. Signature of William Prince on inside cover.
The Sugden. Thomas D. Memorial Day Series is described below. In this series are found five small scrapbooks attributed to the Flushing artist, Thomas D. Sugden on the basis of several letters or notes written by or to him. The volumes consist mainly of newspaper clippings, though here and there other items such as a few photographs, announcement and pictures from magazines. The material in these volumes is dated ca. 1909-1920. Apparently, the volumes were com piled to foster the observance of Memorial Day to honor veterans of the Civil War, and then those of World War I.
The series Drama Group consists of a few newspaper clip pings, announcements, play bills, and some music and lyrics concerning some dramas put on by a theatrical troupe called The Red Ants of America, dated ca. 1910s – 1920s.
The series Hartel, Gertrude Typescripts typescript and some related drafts or memoranda regarding article written by Miss Hartel titled The Theatrical Colony of Newtown and Elmhurst.
The series United States Selective Service Local Board 173 Miscellaneous Records contains the following. Local Board 173 was located at 442 Tenth Avenue in Long Island City. These records consist essentially of some half dozen or so typed lists of men who registered in 1917 or 1918 for possible service in World War I. The lists appear to be typed carbons of the originals. Some lists contain several thousand names. Probably most lists contain the same names, but were used for different purposes, such as names filed "alphabetical”, or names filed by "order number".
The series Long Island City Miscellaneous Financial Documents consists of blank bonds or checks. More specifically it contains bonds issued for the Steinway Avenue Improvement; bond Issued for the Grand Avenue Improvement; checks issued on the Marine National Bank; checks issued on the Queens County Bank; checks issued on the Board of Examining and Supervising of Plumbers and Plumbing; checks issued on the Queens County Treasurer; check issued on the Department of Public Works; and receipt issued by the Board of Fire Commissioners. As stated, all forms are blank. They were printed in the 1880s and 1890s. Several duplicates exist for most.
The series Long Island City Memorial League consists of the following. The League was formed sometime after World War I to erect a memorial to those from the Long Island City-Astoria area who lost their lives in the War. This small series consists of several newspaper clippings dated in the 1920s; a photograph showing the officers of the League at the dedication ceremonies held in 1926; invitation to Mr. August Kupka to attend the ceremonies; and a program for the dedication.
The Beard, Daniel Carter Miscellaneous Documents consist of the following. Mr. Beard, nationally known artist and a founder of the Boy Scouts of America, lived in Flushing for many decades. This small series consists of a letter from him to the Society offering them some oil sketches; an invitation to him to be present at the formal opening of the Flushing Bridge in 1906; a program of the Dedication of the Daniel Carter Beard Memorial Square in 1943; a draft of the publication written by Laurence B. Halleran for the Famous Men of Flushing Series: and some miscellaneous related items.
The series Miscellaneous Documents, as their name implies, are not part of any group or series but, rather, stand independently. They are very varied in nature and include bills, certificates and letters. All concern Flushing, and though many years are represented, the majority are dated in the 1880s and 1890s.
General Ticket Agent Circular No. 7 issued by the Manhattan Railway Company, dated Dec 17, 1890 to all station men, regarding policy on refunding tickets.
Certificate of Appointment issued by the Manhattan Railway Company, dated Aug 5, 1892, to M. J. Connors as an irregular gateman.
Certificate of Appointment issued by the Manhattan Railway Company, dated Aug 5, 1892 to J. M. Hammond as an irregular gateman.
Bond issued by the Town of Flushing, undated, but probably 1890, to raise funds for drain age. This bond is blank, not filled in. (3 copies)
Complimentary ticket for the Flying Centennial Celebration at the New York City Airport in Flushing. Undated, probably ca. 1920.
Program of commencement exercises held June 21, 1889 by Flushing High School.
Wedding invitation issued by Mr. and Mrs. John W. Lawrence for the marriage of their daughter Fanny to Frederick B. Carter. Undated, but probably ca. 1890s.
Quit-Claim, dated November 29, 1831 between Sarah and William Sacket, Jr. of Huntington Township, and William Leverich 3rd of Newtown regarding land in Newtown.
Quit-Claim, dated January 15, 1822 between Hannah and Jacob B. Sacket, and Sarah and John L. Sacket of Newtown, with William Leverich 3rd regarding land in Newtown.
Quit-Claim, Involving several members of the Sacket Family of Newtown, and William Leverich 3rd regarding land in Newtown, dated Mar 26, 1827.
Quit-Claim, dated April 15, 1836 between various members of the Sacket Family of Newtown with William Leverich 3rd regarding land in Milford, Conn.
Tax bill, dated January 1, 1897 submitted by the Town of Flushing to Caroline Sanders. Receipted for payment received.
Tax bill, dated January 7, 1897 submitted by the Village of Flushing to Caroline Sanders. Receipted for payment received.
Tax bill, dated Dec 4, 1897 submitted by the Village of Flushing to Caroline Sanders. Receipted for payment received.
Tax bill, dated Dec 18, 1897 submitted by the Town of Flushing to Caroline Sanders. Receipted for payment received.
Tax bill, dated November 20, 1897 submitted by the Flushing Water Works to the Estate of R. Sanders. Receipted for payment received.
Dog license issued by the Village of Flushing to Mrs. Auffermonn, dated May 1, 1894.
Bill submitted by School District No. 2 (of the Town of Flushing?) to the Bayside Land Association for taxes due on various lots owned by them. Dated November 30, 1889, and receipted for payment received.
Broadside, undated but probably ca. 1860s, of the West Flushing Village Association, extolling the virtues of "The beauty of the Land, its healthy location, its easiness of access...".
Bill, dated Dec 4, 1897 of P. Sellers of Flushing to Mrs. McDonnell for rent due.
Water bill dated Jun 13, 1899 submitted to the estate of R. Sanders. Receipted for payment received.
Water Bill, dated October 20, 1899 submitted to Mr. John Geddes. Receipted for payment received.
Tax Bill, dated January 20, 1876 submitted to Stephen Smith. Receipted for payment received.
School Tax Bill, dated November 23, 1874 submitted to James (Bannan?). Receipted.
Village of Flushing Transfer Warrant dated Dec 29» 1891 issued for a sewer on Broadway.
Bill, dated July 1, 1903, submitted by The Flushing Journal to E. M. Franklin. Receipted.
Bill, dated Jun 26, 1903, submitted by funeral director W. C. Williams to E. M. Franklin. Receipted.
Broadside, dated April 3, 1858, addressed "To The Public", signed "Thuth" and dealing with political matters.
Proof Sheet of an article? titled "Plain Words are Best" dealing with political matters involving L. Bradford Prince.
Bill, dated Jun 17, 1903, submitted by George Smith, dealer in stationery and pianos, to Edward Franklin. Receipted.
Bill, dated November 9, 1907, submitted by D. S. Jones, coal and wood dealer, to G. (Cornell?) Receipted.
Bill, dated February 8, 1892, submitted by the North Side Coal Company to the Rev. J. J. Moore.
Bill, dated May 10, 1906, submitted by Anthony Fischer, liquor dealer, to Mr. John T. Halleran.
A.L.S. of A. W. Quigg of the Times Company, dated April 23, 1885 placing a bid to furnish various stationery supplies.
Program of performance given by the students of St. Michael's School on July 28, 1865 for the benefit of the Flushing Soldiers1 Monument Association.
Sheet containing three blank checks of the Flushing and Queens County Bank for the 1870s.
Four receipts issued to Mrs. Burk for having paid for subscriptions to the "Flushing Evening Journal" in 1896 and 1897.
Advertisement card issued by The Curio Shop.
Bill, dated Jun 15, 1903 issued by John Hepburn, a druggist, to Mr. E. M. Franklin. Receipted.
Tax Bill, dated April 7, 1874 to the Estate of S. C. Cox. Receipted.
Certificate, dated Jan 1868 Issued by the St. George's Church Sunday School.
Tax Bill, dated Jan 28, 1882 issued to Benjamin S. Brown. Receipted.
A.E.S., dated Aug 1, 1894 from the office of George B. Roe and Company, lumber and coal dealers, to Benjamin Fowler, apparently calling attention to some error.
Tax Bill, dated Jan 1, 1883 issued to Mr. W. R. Brown. Receipted.
Bill, dated November, 1860 issued by the P.C.P. and N.Y. Steam Perry Company to Mr. G. L. Smith. Receipted.
Bill, dated Jun 18, 1903, issued by Martin J. Kennedy, carpenter and builder, to Mr. E. M. Franklin, Receipted.
Sheet containing two blank checks of the Board of Education of School District No. 3, dated in the 1880s.
Bill, dated Jun 12, 1888, submitted by the "Flushing Journal” to the Board of Health of Flushing Town.
Bill, undated ca. 19071 issued by the "Flushing Daily Times" to John J. Halleran.
Invitation addressed to Mrs. George W. Pople by the Board of Trustees of the Queens Borough Public Library to attend dedication ceremonies of the Central Library on November 1, 1929.
Broadside, titled "The Second Annual Address of the Carrier of the Long-Island Times to his Patrons". Dated Jan 1, 1857.
Prescription label from the J. H. Whitson’s Drug Store. Undated ca. l880s-90s.
Prescription label from the C. H. Garretson apothecary. Undated. ca. l880s-90s.
Seven certificates of appointments or dismissals of personnel made by the General Ticket Department of the Manhattan Railway Company in 1892.
Copies of four indentures dated 1872 and 1873 between the Newtown and Flushing R.R. Company and various individuals.
Two New Year Greeting Cards, dated 1905 and 1906 bearing the names of several individuals. A note on the verso of one of them reads "Yrs ago we used these cards when New Years calling -We called on Friends -Using Coach and Horses with Coachman. A great day". Signed by William J. Halleran.
Sixteen Premiums presented to Jane Lawrence by the Flushing Public School between Jun 1849 and October 1851.
Subscription List in aid of the Flushing Clay Club. A note at the bottom of this document states that this was the "Original Subscription List of the 'Henry Clay Club” of Flushing, L.I.
Certificate of honorable discharge issued by Queens County Clerk’s Office to William J. Halleran from Mutual Engine Company No* 1. dated Mar 30, 1909
Certificate of Appointment of Samuel W. Field as a fireman of Flushing Village. Dated Jun b9 1862. (oversized)
Certificate of Membership (blank) in the Flushing Monument Association. Undated but ca. 1866. Attached is a newspaper clipping listing the names of Flushing Civil War dead to be inscribed on the memorial, as well as a ticket issued by St. Michael's School for the Soldiers' Monument Exhibition, (oversized)
Certificate of membership of John J. Wright as a Flushing Village Fireman. Dated November 13, 1861. (oversized)
Certificate for punctuality during the month of October 1872 presented by the Flushing Female Institute to student Jane Lawrence.
Three Certificates for punctuality presented by Flushing Public School to student Jane Lawrence for six month periods ending April 18, 1850 to May 1, 1851, and November 1851.
A.L.S. from students of the Queensboro Business Institute (29) signatures dated June 24, 1914 Flushing, to George W. Pople thanking him for his graduation address to them.
Roster of the Flushing Guards. The roster was probably done sometime in the late 19th century. It contains 29 names all written In stylish script.(oversized)
Menu of the First Annual Dinner of the Men’s Club of the Reformed Church of Flushing held November 15, 1904. Verso contains a dozen signatures.
Menu of the Annual Dinner of the Old Guard Mutual Engine Company held April 10, 1913.
Menu of the Fifth Annual Dinner of the Men’s Club of the Reformed Church of Flushing held November 17, 1908. Verso contains eight signatures.
Booklet titled Famous Men of Flushing. Bears a note written by William J. Halleran.
Report of a Flushing School Meeting held February 2, 1858.(oversized)
Transcript of a military record listing men killed while in the service of Light Battery, L of the 34th N.Y. Infantry. Dated July 5t 1865, Flushing. (oversized)
License issued by University of the State of New York to Alexander MacDonald Hepburn to practice optometry. Dated October 6, 1909
Typescript (38 pages) of a play titled In The Days of Noah. Time 1307. No date appears nor author, although the back cover has barely legible the name 0. S. Pentz. Perhaps this individual was the author.
Memorandum dated July 13, 1915 from Joseph H. Fitzpatrick to Mr. Mclntyre enclosing document titled Index - Typewritten Abstracts From Minutes of Meetings. Board of Trustees Village of Flushing. Borough of Queens from March 8. 1871 to September 21, 1875. The Index consists of only about a dozen pages and is probably not complete.
A.L.S. dated January 22, 1964 Newport, New Hampshire, of C. Wesley Hallett of the Clock Museum, to Mr. Frank Pokorny enclosing 8 photographs. These photographs (attached) are of documents (probably 3 different documents dated ca. 19th century) which were loaned by Mr. Pokorney to Mr. Hallett.
T.L.S., dated Aug 31, 1945, New York City, to the Society care of the Halleran Agency from naval architect John L. Bogert, enclosing (attached) a reprint of an article of possible concern to the Society.
Broadside titled "Laying the Corner-Stone of the Soldiers Monument, Flushing, N.Y. July 4, 1866".
Report titled "Memorial Field, Its Inception and Development". Undated but probably ca. 1930.
Program for opening night of the Keith-Albee Theater, Dated.1928.
Advertising flyer issued by the Hepburn Pharmacy. Undated but probably 1948.
Manuscript song sheet titled "My Dear Old Flushing Home", by Susie Pierce Mason. Undated, but presented to the Society in 1945.
Printed song sheet titled "Dreamy Long Island", by Frank Surgent, Jr. Dated 1945.
Political flyer titled "TO-NIGHT HEAR HARVEY HALLERAN SHUGRUE". Undated, but probably 1929.
Invitation (blank) to the Third Annual Ball of the Jamaica Volunteers. Dated 1839.
Ticket to the Eleventh Annual Dinner of the Men's Club of the Reformed Church of Flushing. Dated 1914.
T.L.S., dated July 7, 1938, Jamaica of Harry L. (Osias?) of the Georgian Construction Corp. to General Offices at Brooklyn explaining a new building available for renting. Descriptive brochure is attached.
Program of Testimonial Dinner tendered to the Honorable George U. Harvey by the Citizens of the Borough of Queens on Dec 18, 1928.
Certificate of Naturalization issued to Samuel Carpenter by the County Court of New York on July 26, 1856.
Postcard addressed to Mr. J. J. Halleran by the Bowne Park Improvement Association to attend a meeting of the Good Citizenship League. Dated January 15, 1906.
Invitation and ticket to the official opening on October 15, 1939 of the Municipal Airport at North Beach. Accompanying this is a sticker, possibly intended to be placed on car bumper, and a small map giving directions.
Postcard to Mrs. Halleran, dated Mar 31, 1906 from Sister Mary Rose acknowledging receipt of payment for tickets.
New Year Invitation Card used by the Halleran Agency and signed by Bill Halleran, to attend a party on December 31, 1949
Indenture (draft) involving Mary and Henry A. Peck of the City of Brooklyn. Dated ca. 1870s. Attached is a real estate prospectus titled "143 Lots -Formerly Peck Estate..." issued by the Halleran Agency, Undated, but probably ca. 1915-1920, and a Price List regarding the same property.
Photocopy, dated October 5, 1945 of the Dec 27, 1657 famous document, "The Flushing Remonstrance”. A typescript accompanies the photocopy.
A.L.S. of Anna H. Parsons to Mr. Pople enclosing a “99-year-old pamphlet in this tattered condition...for possible use in...the Flushing Historical Society”, (pamphlet not included)
Ribbon (in very poor condition) of the Newtown Fire Department at Glendale Schuetzen Park, 1901.
T.L.S., dated Jun 9, 1953 of Franklin P. Regan, Treasurer of the Bowne House Historical Society, to Mr. John P. Gering of Forest Hills thanking him for his past generosity to the Society.
Small maps showing automobile and transit routes to the New York City Municipal Air port (LaGuardia Airport). Undated but ca. 1930.
Small bird’s-eye map showing The New York Airport (Flushing Airport). Undated, but ca.1935.
Program of Saint George’s Church 250th Anniversary Celebration, 1952. Verso contains some manuscript notes listing "Flushing's Contribution to the USA and the world".
Form announcement to "Members of Memorial Field of Flushing, Inc.", dated May 21, 1929 regarding the First Annual Amateur Union-Track Meet, sponsored by the organization.
Form letter from Memorial Field of Flushing, Inc., Undated, to Its membership discussing a campaign for funds•
Catalogue issued by the Knickerbocker Auction Rooms in Manhattan, for sale of collections of three individuals, one of whom was John J. Halleran. Undated This is a marked copy indicating in pencil the prices achieved for various items.
Manuscript poem of the farmer-poet, Bloodgood Cutter addressed to three ladles of the Flushing Historical Society. It is written on three sheets and bears date of April 26, 1904. Original wrapper stated that item was presented to the Society by Miss Mary MacLeod in September 1948.
Account submitted by Silvanus Miller, Public Administrator, to the Estate of John G. Leake, dated September 22, 1827.
Bill submitted by the Eclectic Association to Mr. George (Yonle?) for dues, dated January 1, 1862. Receipted for payment received.
Typed eulogy In memory of Mary Cartwright Undated, perhaps early 1920s
Manuscript catalog or list of books owned by the Flushing Library Association. There are at least a dozen sheets. Undated, but perhaps ca. l870s.
Certificate of Discharge, dated February 11, 1863 issued to Private John Murphy from the 15th Regiment of the New York Engineer Corps.
Volunteer Descriptive List and Account of Pay and Clothing of Private John Murphy, dated Jan 18, 1863.
Muster and Pay Roll of Captain George H. Quarterman’s Company, Dated 1861.
Muster Out Roll of Captain Robert A. Stanton’s Company. Dated 1864.
Lithograph portrait of Anna Braithwaite. Undated probably ca. 1810-1840.
Lithograph portrait of J. J. (Gurney?). Undated, probably ca. 1810-1840.
Circular addressed "To the Voters of the Village of Flushing” by the Citizens Party. Nov 28, 1894.
A ballot? containing the names of about 25 or so individuals running for various offices. Undated, probably ca. 1890-1910.
Printed booklet of 21 pages titled "Address”. Penciled in that it was an address given in 1849 by S. B. Parsons.
Program of performance given at Hulst's Casino. Version contains the autographs of nine individuals Undated, probably 1910-1920.
Seating arrangement containing several hundred names of the Golden Jubilee Citizens Testimonial Dinner for the Rt. Rev. Eugene J. Donnelly. Undated, probably the 1920s.
Typescript of a play script titled "The Three Queens”. Undated, probably 1910s-1930s.
Catalog listing antiques sold at sale ordered by the executors of the late John J. Halleran. Dated. 1899
T.L.S. or perhaps a printed letter of Doctor Johnston MacLeod on behalf of the Flushing Hospital Aid Association, thanking all who gave their time and energy to make a carnival and circus a success. Dated September 1, 1909.
A brochure describing Flushing Hospital. Inside fold contains three pencil sketches of what may be part of the old building of the hospital since they do not appear to match the building printed in the brochure. Undated, but probably the 1910s or very early 1920s.
Auctioneer advertisement bill for sale of “300 Choice Residence Lots, at Eleanor, Flushing..., June 15th, 1895..."
Membership Certificate, Dated Jul 6, 1896 of Clarence F. Byrd as a member of Mutual Engine Co. No. l of Flushing.
Postcard, Dated NYC Dec 6, 1916 addressed to David L. Hardenbrook of Flushing to attend meeting of the Home Defense League.
T.L.S. Dated Jamaica, Apr 18, 1916 of Captain George G. Walden to unknown individual (David L. Hardenbrook?) to attend meeting of the Home Defense League.
Ticket to the 16th Annual Dinner of Flushing Chamber of Commerce, October 20, 1954, verso of which contains the signatures of three members of the Halleran Family
Three tax bills submitted by Flushing Village to Mr. John E. Tonsey Dated Jan 21, 1897
The series Miscellaneous Volumes contains the following. Like Miscellaneous Documents, Miscellaneous Volumes are those which are not part of any collection but stand independently. They too are very varied in nature and include scrapbooks, albums and account books.
Two albums, published by Frederick A. Stokes Company in 1902 titled A Guest Book, arranged by Florence L. Shaler and sub-titled Many Pigs of Many Pens. Consisting of about 100 pages, each page has a penciled drawing of a pig drawn by various individuals and signed and dated by them. One album was used between ca. 1904-1909, the other ca. 1911-1917. It is not known who owned these albums originally. Some of the names of those who signed the albums are recognizable as Flushing residents.
Scrapbook Identified as J (James) Laurence Cain, Ph.D., dated Summer 1884. it consists essentially of newspaper clippings with occasionally printed items such as listings of class officers. Mr. Cain evidently was a student at Columbia College and clips deal with this subject, as well as with some local Flushing politics in which Mr. Cain engaged in his later life. Clips are dated ca. 1880-1881 with a few extraneous documents dated several years later.
Two Visitor’s Registers maintained by the Nereus Rowing Club of Flushing - One covers period of 1879 to 1886; the other from 1884-to 1896. Pages are torn from both volumes and both have some rough sketches, and contain a newspaper clipping or two. References to parties and to the number of miles traveled are given.
Scrapbook titled "Flushing Volunteers” - Volume deals with volunteer firemen and contains newspaper clippings, a photo graph and a ribbon. Dated ca. 1900-1904
Photograph Album identified by an historical society member as the Pople Family Album. It contains approximately 125 photographs, most of them of individuals. These are principally small carte-de-viste photographs. The relatively few non-portraits are scenes of buildings or countryside, some of which are identified as being in Liverpool, or to a lesser degree, Perth. These were probably taken in the 1880s or 1890s.
Journal probably maintained by James Parsons of the firm of Kirby and Parsons in Manhattan. It is a rather full volume and contains accounts with numerous Individuals for "merchandise"• Among the objects mentioned are broad cloths, calico, thread, and lace, dated 1795 to 1799.
Minutes volume of meetings held by the North Shore Property Owners Association of Flushing during 1931 to 1933.
Ledger maintained by an unknown individual. It is a very full volume and numerous accounts are listed. Most of these appear to have been with individuals supplying grains such as flour and corn. Dated 1872 to 1874
Scrapbook, probably compiled by Mr. Harold Pusch of 26-20 141st Street in Flushing. Volume utilized was a receipt book of the Tuxedo Yarn Company at 36-16 Main Street in Flushing. Volume consists of newspaper clippings, as well as a few letters, local publications or newsletters, and some miscellaneous items. The vast majority refer to Whitestone. There are occasional references to one or two other areas in greater Flushing. Because the overwhelming amount of clips and other data were inserted into the volume loosely, they were removed for their better protection and placed in folders, dated ca. 1970s, a few items somewhat earlier.
Small notebook used as a scrapbook to contain newspaper clippings dealing with the Flushing Carnival and Circus held during June 1909. Included in the volume are also 2 hand-lettered envelopes stating that the Flushing Carnival and Circus … (was) "The Real Thing”. According to a note written on the original wrapper, the clippings were of articles written by Ellis Parker Butler, and the volume was donated by Mrs. John Clarke on September 18, 1950.
Small account book labeled as being The Estate of Benjamin A. Akerly, Rents 1833. The volume is not very full but contains some accounts dated from 1833 to 1836. A wrapper originally on it noted that the volume had been donated in January 1953 by Royal S. Pease.
Mercury Wheel Club of Flushing Scrapbook. Volume contains newspaper clippings dated in the 1890s concerning various races and events held by the Club.
Memorial Book issued by the Flushing Historical Society upon the death of its founder, L. Bradford Prince on December 8, 1922. Consists of several pages in script extolling the virtues of Mr. Prince. Signed by President, George W. Pople, and Secretary George S. Halleran.
Album presented to Edward E. Mitchell by the pupils of Flushing Public School No. l Consists of drawings in pencil presumably done by students. Undated, perhaps 1890s, or 1900s.
Account book used in connection with the assessing of land in the Town of Flushing ca. 1894-1895, Volume is not a very extensive one. Inserted into it are about 20 miscellaneous documents for the same approximate period consisting of such items as letters from the Queens County Board of Supervisors, memoranda and the like.
Scrapbook compiled by an unidentified individual (but most probably George Pople). This volume contains numerous newspaper clippings (a very few other type documents included) all of which in one way or another refer to the Town of Flushing, dated ca. 18991932, with most clips in the 1910s.
The series Non-Textual Items contains the following. The items in this group are composed of ribbons, medals badges, pins, and the like, all rather miscellaneous in nature. No doubt, they were donated by a few members and donated to the Society. Many are of a general nature, and really have no Flushing connection other than they were once in the possession of Flushing residents. We have made no attempt to ascertain if the medals are gold, silver or gold-plated, and we did not measure their size. Most, nevertheless, are probably about 2 ½ or 3" in circumference, ribbons generally are only two or three inches in length, and, generally speaking, are tattered and torn and in very poor condition. There are one or two duplicate items.
Firemen Badges - 78 varied sized medals, buttons, badges or ribbons in use ca. l880s-1910s. They were worn, for example, by firemen attending volunteer firemen conventions, especially perhaps by delegates. Not all are Flushing based but are of some other Queens communities and upper New York State perhaps, and not all are readily identified. Some are rather ornate and depict engines or men engaged in fire fighting stances. These items apparently are bronze or metallic. Some probably had ribbons attached which have long since disintegrated.
Butchers’ Badges - 9 badges worn by delegates or officers to Annual Conventions of the New York State United Master Butchers' Association. Some depict cattle, some Niagara Falls where some conventions were held. Dated ca. 1903-1909.
Flushing Hospital Badges and Buttons 15 badges and buttons used during fairs sponsored by the Flushing Hospital Fair Association dated ca. 1905-1913.
Flushing Tercentenary Button 8 duplicate buttons with printed wording “Flushing Tercentenary 1645-1945”
A. M. Hepburn Medals - 2 medals (1 gold? and 1 bronze?) with ribbons presented to A. M. Hepburn by the Amateur Athletic Union of the United States for achievement in basketball. The bronze was presented in 1900; the other in 1901.
Political Buttons - 3 buttons depicting President Wilson or Wilson campaign slogans. Also button with ribbon with the words “Combined Outing Republican Clubs June 8. 1907”; as well as a combination button/mirror with the words “The Two Most Popular People Find the Other One”. Dated ca. 1900s.
President Washington’s Inauguration Centennial Medals 3 medals of varying sizes issued in 1889 for the celebration of the centennial inauguration of President Washington.
The following are Miscellaneous Non-Textual items.
3 skate and coat checks used at roller skating rink on Amity Street in Flushing, ca. 1920
Small wooden gavel bearing notation that it was made of Cedar Lebanon Wood.
Small hatchet pin with inscription “Cannot tell a lie”. 1889?
Medal and ribbon with inscription “Rexall Silver Jubilee Convention. Boston 1928”
Name plate of A. M. Hepburn of Flushing.
Flushing High School pin celebrating Diamond Jubilee 1950.
Pin with wording “Has Anybody Here Seen Kelly” and attached miniature hat. Probably used in some campaign, ca. 1910? (2 duplicates)
Flag pin with inscription “Jersey City 3 Minutes From Broadway” ca. 1930s?
Memorial name plate bearing initials “F G” surrounded by a wreath.
Medal bearing inscription “The Mayor and Committee of Citizens of the City of New York to Honor and Welcome the Italian Royal Commission to the U.S. of America” June 1917 attached to ribbon.
Flag Pin bearing colors of the United States and Italian(?) Flags.
Picture button depicting Admiral Dewey?
Medal bearing inscription “Dewey’s Flag-Ship Olympia 5800 tons.”
Admiral George Dewey Medal.
Medal apparently issued by the Governor of the Netherlands. Perhaps issued in 1876 to commemorate American Centennial, Latin inscription.
Medal bearing inscription “A Safe and Sane Fourth of July” attached ribbon Dated 1913.
Medal with attached ribbon issued by the Foresters of America, ca. 1910s?
Medal bearing inscription “Continental Currency Seal. Whole Amount Issued 3,000,000 May 10, 1775”. Probably issued in 1876, 1901 or 1926 to commemorate American independence
Small teaspoon probably late 18th century Dutch. Back bears initials “I V”
Ribbon bearing words “Reception Committee Transit Celebration Flushing April 21.1923”
Ribbon bearing wording “Jackson Heights Fourth of July Association Second 1971”
Ribbon bearing wording “Reception Committee Flushing Institute Ass’n”
Ribbon with small button of Statue of Liberty bearing wording “W.S.S. 1919 Official”
Ribbon bearing wording “National Public School Celebration Columbus Day October 21st 1492-1892 Official Badge”
Ribbon with small American Flag on top worded “Committee”
Ribbon bearing wording “Flushing 1906”
Ribbon bearing wording “Judge”
Ribbon bearing wording “Parade Committee”
Ribbon bearing wording “Official Shinnecock Club Road Race Dec 31. 1916”
Pin and ribbon bearing wording “George Huntsman Post No. 50 N.Y.”
Pin and ribbon bearing wording “Judge”
Pin bearing likeness of President Harding and worded “In Memorial”
Pin bearing wording “Get Behind the Government Liberty Loan of 1917”
1939 New York World's Fair Commemorative Medal inscription on verso reads “Souvenir of the 150th Anniversary George Washington's Inauguration”
Lapel button(?) with initials “P.R.N.Y.”
Shield medal bearing an 1862 date. Probably Judicial in nature.
Pin in the form of an American Eagle 1930s?
Pin depicting the three Revolutionary War Fife and Drum figures. 1976?
Mirror advertising the ETTA-ANN Inc. beauty shop on Main Street Flushing, ca. 1950s?
Ribbon bearing the wording “N.A.A.O Regatta Wahnetah Boat Club Flushing. H.Y. Detroit, Mich. Aug 6-7. 1909”
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Administrative Information
Preferred Citation
Published citations should take the following form:
Creator of item, date of item (if known), identification of item, if a photograph its control number. The Flushing Historical Society Collection First Addendum, Archives at Queens Library, Queens Borough Public Library.
Provenance
Between October 1980 and February 1981, additional material was acquired from the Flushing Historical Society as the result of the death of its president and most recent active member, Mr. Frank Pokorney. Upon Mr. Pokorney’s death the Society, after many years of dormancy, ceased to exist altogether. Mr. Vincent Seyfried, a well-known local historian and collector, was in charge of clearing out the records of the Society, and with the consent of other members of a committee, very graciously donated materials pertinent to the holdings of the Archives at Queens Library. Among these were numerous books, pamphlets and photographs, besides the manuscript materials described in this inventory. As previously indicated, the Flushing Historical Society through its various members made a concerted effort to collect manuscript and other materials which would help preserve the history of their village and town* Quite often members would donate papers or objects which had been in their family's possession. With few exceptions, all of these items pertained to Flushing or were Flushing connected in some way. At one time most of the items had the name of the donor or collector attached to them, but over the years these usually became separated. We mention this merely in passing and as a point of information, and not to suggest that these identifications were of any great importance. Wherever we do know the name of any individual who made the donation to the Society, we will make mention of it, nevertheless.
Access Restrictions
Open for research without restrictions. Manuscripts are only available in the Archives at Queens Library, please call (718) 990-0770 for hours. Manuscript users will be required to complete the division's Manuscript Usage Form and deposit their photograph identification or Queens Borough Public Library card with a staff member. The identification will be returned to the user after she/he has returned the material. Manuscript users will deposit all their personal items behind the reference desk. Manuscript users must use the division's loose sheets of paper for note taking. To reiterate, no pen of any type is permitted. Paper and a pencil are available upon request. Manuscript users may be required to use special handling procedures depending on the conditions of the material.
Use Restrictions
Permission to publish materials must be obtained in writing from the:
- Archives at Queens Library
- Queens Borough Public Library
- 89-11 Merrick Boulevard
- Jamaica, NY 11432
- Phone: (718) 990-0770.
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Access Points
Subject Organizations:
- Flushing Historical Society (Flushing, New York, N.Y.)
Subject Places:
- Flushing (New York, N.Y.)
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Inventory
[The following section contains a detailed listing of the materials in the collection.]
