Frederick W. Rhinelander family papers (MS.2011.2)

This collection contains approximately 35 letters and 67 photographs from the extended family of Frederick William Rhinelander of New York and Newport, as well as pieces from the Skinner and Cameron families.

The letters reveal domestic and business matters from Frederick and his wife, Frances Skinner Rhinelander to and from their children. Also, letters between the children from New York, Newport, St. Paul's School in Concord, NH and Harvard University. Other family names mentioned are Newbold, King, Jones, and Edgar.

Highlights include charming illustrated letters from Helen Rhinelander Cameron to her older brother Thomas "Maso," describing childhood activities in New York and Newport. Attending parties and playing games with friends and cousins such as Edith "Pussy" Jones, later Edith Wharton.

Other highlights include, attending theater productions at Madison Square by the actor Edwin Booth (brother of John Wilkes Booth); refusing to attend Theodore Roosevelt's wedding because of heavy rain.

Also included in the gift is an engraved copper plate of Skinner coat of arms, with several printed bookplates belonging to Thomas H. Skinner.