Natalie Bayard Brown papers , 1877-1950

(bulk 1897-1950)

Series 1. Correspondence, 1897-1950
This series contains correspondence received and sent, the majority of which is correspondence between Natalie Bayard Brown and members of her immediate family: her son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren. There is surprisingly little correspondence from friends, acquaintances and siblings. Likewise, there is limited correspondence concerning Natalie’s charitable contributions, church related topics, civic responsibilities, memberships, political activities, Brown University, real estate holdings and purchases. There is a significant amount of correspondence between Natalie Bayard Brown and her financial advisors at 50 South Main Street. Due to the unique and familiar relationship between Natalie Bayard Brown and George and Frank Matteson, this correspondence details investment strategies in addition to a great deal of personal information.

Subseries A. Engagement
On the event of her engagement to John Nicholas Brown in August 1897, Natalie Bayard Brown received an abundance of congratulatory notes and hearty well wishes. A popular member of Newport and New York society, Natalie Bayard Brown returned from Paris at the time her engagement was announced, and partook in the Newport summer season.

See also:

• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 6. Scrapbooks
• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 7. Clippings

Subseries B. Wedding
Following a month long engagement, the couple was married at Trinity Church in Newport on September 8, 1897. A wedding breakfast reception followed at the home of Natalie’s maternal aunt, Mrs. Augusta King. The newlyweds then traveled to Europe for an extended vacation. This subseries contains many congratulatory telegrams as well as a guest list and gift register.

See also:

• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 2. Financial, Subseries C. Personal Expenses, Bills, for trousseau purchases, receipt for wedding gown included.
• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 8. Photographs, for wedding photographs.

Subseries C. Death
Natalie Bayard Brown died at her home, Harbour Court, on March 27, 1950. On the advent of her death, her son, John Nicholas Brown, received numerous sympathy letters, notes, telegrams, and cards from family, friends, business associates and political leaders. This subseries contains details regarding the funeral in addition to several obituaries. On April 3, 1950, the Rhode Island General Assembly issued a resolution to commemorate the life of Natalie Bayard Brown, and to offer condolences to her son, John Nicholas Brown.

Sub-subseries 1. Telegrams

Sub-subseries 2. Cards

Sub-subseries 3. Letters, 1900-1970

Sub-subseries 4. Funeral

5. Miscellaneous

Subseries D. Family
This subseries contains correspondence between Natalie Bayard Brown and members of her immediate family: John Nicholas Brown (1861 - 1900); John Nicholas Brown (1900 - 1979); Anne S.K. Brown; Nicholas Brown; John Carter Brown III; Angela Bayard Brown; the Brown Family; and the Dresser Family.

Sub-subseries 1. John Nicholas Brown (1861-1900)
The correspondence between Natalie Bayard Brown and her husband, John Nicholas Brown, is quite personal and loving. He wrote to her frequently while away on business trips and while she was confined in their New York home due to her advanced stage of pregnancy.

Sub-subseries 2. John Nicholas Brown (1900 - 1979)
There is a great deal of correspondence from Natalie Bayard Brown’s son, John Nicholas Brown, in this collection. Although some letters were written as a child, the majority of the correspondence comes from later years. John Nicholas Brown, his wife Anne S.K. Brown, and their children vacationed in Southern California, the United States West or in Europe. While away from home, John Nicholas Brown wrote extensive letters to his mother. This correspondence reveals a very close and loving relationship between mother and son.

Sub-subseries 3. Anne S.K. Brown
This sub-subseries includes correspondence written by Anne S.K. Brown to her mother-in-law, Natalie Bayard Brown. These letters are very newsy and a delightful read. One letter details the Coronation in May 1937. At the end of the letter, Anne asked her parents to forward the letter to Natalie Bayard Brown.

Sub-subseries 4. Nicholas Brown - RESTRICTED
This sub-subseries contains correspondence from Nicholas Brown to his grandmother, Natalie Bayard Brown.

Sub-subseries 5. John Carter Brown III - RESTRICTED
This sub-subseries contains correspondence from John Carter Brown III to his grandmother, Natalie Bayard Brown.

Sub-subseries 6. Angela Bayard Brown - RESTRICTED
This sub-subseries contains correspondence from Angela Bayard Brown to her grandmother, Natalie Bayard Brown.

Sub-subseries 7. Brown family
This sub-subseries consists of correspondence to Natalie Bayard Brown from members of her husband’s family as well as copies of correspondence sent by Natalie Bayard Brown to her relations by marriage. Included within this grouping are letters from Sophia Augusta Brown, Georgette Sherman Brown, Sophia Augusta Sherman and William Watts Sherman.

Sub-subseries 8. Dresser family
This sub-subseries contains correspondence between Natalie Bayard Brown and her siblings. Natalie was very close to all of her sisters and brother and they retained a good relationship for the duration of their lives. Represented within this collection are letters from her sisters, Susan (also known as the Viscountess d’Osmoy), Edith (who was first married to George Vanderbilt and then to Senator Peter Gerry), and Pauline (who was married to the Reverend George Merrill). Also contained within this grouping are letters to Natalie from her brother Daniel LeRoy Dresser.

Much of the correspondence between Natalie Bayard Brown and her brother deal with financial issues. She championed his candidacy for trustee. He was appointed trustee, but served only a short tenure due to his financial instability (See also: Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 3. Legal). The correspondence between Natalie and her older sister Susan, the Viscountess d’Osmoy, is fascinating in its own right, and contains some letters from John Nicholas Brown (1900 - 1979) as well. This correspondence details the family’s efforts to get the Viscountess and her companion, Mademoiselle Madeline Renard, out of Europe on the eve of World War II.

Subseries E. Friends and acquaintances
This very small subseries contains correspondence from a few friends and acquaintances of Natalie Bayard Brown from 1897 - 1937, and includes some undated correspondence.

Subseries F. John Carter Brown Library, 1904-1923, undated
This subseries contains correspondence between Natalie Bayard Brown, George Parker Winship, President Faunce of Brown University, and other members of the John Carter Brown library committee. Included are library annual reports, which detail expenses, income, book purchases, donations, and a copy of the formal agreement between Brown University and the John Carter Brown Library. Correspondence also exists regarding the alterations to the library in 1912 and the Librarian controversy. It details Winship’s resignation, Mr. Champlin Burrage’s brief tenure as librarian, and the hiring of Lawrence C. Wroth. Natalie was a member of the Committee of Management of the library along with President Faunce, D.B. Updike, and Col. Goddard until his death in 1916. Natalie Bayard Brown, wintering in Pasadena, California during the war years, was kept apprised of the library situation, via the post.

Subseries G. Brown University
In 1903, Natalie Bayard Brown contracted the Norcross Brothers Co., to build the John Nicholas Brown Gate at Brown University. The gate was designed by the Architectural firm of Shepley, Rutan & Coolidge of Boston. This subseries consists of correspondence from the contractors, architects and an official thank you letter from President Faunce.

See also:

• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 6. Scrapbooks
• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 8. Photographs

Sub-subseries 1. John Nicholas Brown Gate

Sub-subseries 2. John Hay Library

Sub-subseries 3. 150th Anniversary of Brown University

Subseries H. Charitable
This small subseries consists of a variety of charitable endeavors embarked upon by Natalie Bayard Brown. During her travels throughout Japan, Natalie hired a guide. She met his family, stayed in touch with them, and sponsored the education of his daughter, Hama, who was born with a disability. Natalie funded St. Dunstan’s School in Providence, and donated bear cubs to Roger Williams Park Zoo. Particularly fascinating are letters from Frau Kund to Natalie Bayard Brown. At various times, Natalie assisted Frau Kund in securing employment as a nanny. In 1938, Frau Kund asked Natalie for money so she could return to Germany. Her sons were enthusiastic supporters of the Nazi Party, and needed genealogical verification of lineage. She was panic stricken because she just found out that her grandfather was a Jew and she didn’t know how to tell her sons. So she wanted to return to Germany in order to explain the situation to them and to Hitler.

See also:

• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 2. Financial, Subseries D. Tax returns

Sub-subseries 1. Frau Kund

Sub-subseries 2. Hama Nishi

Sub-subseries 3. St. Dunstan’s, Providence

Sub-subseries 4. Miscellaneous

Subseries I. Church, 1902-1941, undated
This subseries contains a history of Emmanuel Church, Newport Rhode Island. Written by Anne Sherman, this pamphlet and typescript copy detail Natalie Bayard Brown’s contributions to the building, refurbishing and decorating of Emmanuel Church. Also contained within this subseries is correspondence regarding the General Episcopal Convention of 1925 in which Natalie Bayard Brown was a delegate along with her son, John Nicholas Brown.

See also:

• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 4. Writings and speeches.
• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 7. Clippings.

Subseries J. Civic
Natalie Bayard Brown devoted much of her personal time to promote the betterment of Newport. She was a prominent member of Newport Society and was a life long member of the Civic League. She served as President from 1912 - 1922, and proposed youth involvement and championed rights of mothers and children. She was a member of the Newport School Committee for more than a decade, and always pushed for school improvements.

See also:

• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 4. Writings and speeches.
• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 6. Scrapbooks.
• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 7. Clippings
• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 8. Photographs

Sub-subseries 1. Newport School Committee

Sub-subseries 2. Newport Civic League

Subseries K. Memberships, 1940-1945, undated
Natalie Bayard Brown was a member of a variety of organizations and clubs. She was a life long member and President of the Newport Art Association, where her paintings were exhibited in 1947. While wintering in Pasadena, California, she joined the Pasadena Music and Art Association. She belonged to the Women’s Foreign Missionary Society and the Providence Female Charitable Society. Interested in family history and genealogy, Natalie became a member of the Society of Colonial Dames and the Knights of the Most Noble Order of the Garter. During the war years, she was a member and President of the Maple Leaf Club. This group of dedicated women knitted hats, mittens, and sweaters for servicemen in the United States and Canada. She served as chair of the Women’s Committee for the Council of National Defense throughout the war.

Subseries L. Political
Natalie Bayard Brown was a prominent member of the Newport County Women’s Democratic Club. Elected club President in 1929, Natalie Bayard Brown wanted to get young people interested in politics and proposed establishing junior branches of the club. She campaigned for Al Smith during the 1928 election. She spoke on behalf on Gov. Smith as well as for her brother-in-law, Peter Gerry, who was running for re-election as senator from Rhode Island. Following the election, Natalie Bayard Brown hosted a Roast Duckling Dinner for all supporters of the campaign. She was elected an elector and on January 2, 1929, at the meeting of the Electoral College at the office of the Secretary of State, she cast her vote for Al Smith. During the election of 1932, Natalie Bayard Brown supported the candidacy of Franklin D. Roosevelt and campaigned for Theodore Francis Green. Natalie Bayard Brown was elected delegate to the State convention of the Democratic Party, which was held on October 7, 1932 for the nomination of the candidates for governor and other state offices. Contained within this subseries is correspondence from Rhode Island political leaders: Mortimer Sullivan, Mayor of Newport; Earnest Sprague, Secretary of State; Francis Condon, Congressman; and Theodore Francis Green, Governor. Also contained is a copy of an editorial written by Herbert C. Pell as well as a pamphlet by Pell, The Democratic Case, reprinted from the North American Review, November 1932. Campaign literature from the election of 1928 and 1932 has been preserved in Natalie Bayard Brown’s correspondence.

See also:

• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 4. Writings and speeches.
• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 6. Scrapbooks.
• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 7. Clippings
• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 8. Photographs

Subseries M. Real estate
A resident of Newport, Rhode Island, Natalie Bayard Brown kept her primary residence overlooking Newport Harbor at Harbour Court, presently the home of the New York Yacht Club. Harbour Court was built on the former Dickey Estate, which Natalie Bayard Brown purchased in 1903. Information can be obtained by examining the deeds, titles, contracts, building specifications, and related bills in Series 3. Legal, Subseries C. Newport properties; the funds for building Harbour Court came from the John Nicholas Brown minor account.

Contained within this subseries is correspondence to and from Natalie Bayard Brown regarding the King lot in Newport on Harrison Ave, and correspondence concerning Newport properties owned by Natalie Bayard Brown as rental properties: 2 Wellington Avenue, a lot at 39 Wellington Avenue, 1 and 5 Marchant Street, 33 South Baptist Street, 417 Spring Street.

When her son, John Nicholas Brown, enrolled at Harvard, Natalie Bayard Brown resided at 181 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston. She maintained this residence until 1942, dividing her time between Newport and Boston. Contained within this portion of the correspondence are letters between Natalie Bayard Brown and her real estate agents regarding the rental and sale of 181 Commonwealth. Additional correspondence and bills are related to repairs and renovations that took place at this residence.

In 1913, Natalie Bayard Brown purchased the farm of Henry Thomas located lakeside on Yawgoo Pond in West Kingstown, Rhode Island, for her son. Included with this correspondence is a pen and ink map of the area. Before purchasing this land, Natalie explored the possibility of purchasing other camps for her son, and this correspondence is contained in the correspondence/real estate/miscellaneous file.

Included within this subseries is correspondence between Natalie Bayard Brown and the North Burial Ground, Providence. The Brown family burial lot is located at the North Burial Ground, and in 1900, after the death of her husband, Natalie Bayard Brown contacted the Olmsted Brothers to landscape the area. Also contained is correspondence between Natalie Bayard Brown and J & R Lamb of New York City regarding the monument for her husband.

See also:

• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 2. Financial, C. Personal expenses, 6. NBB Special Account and 7. Harbour Court Account, used to pay the insurance premiums on properties owned by Natalie Bayard Brown.
• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 3. Legal, Subseries C. Newport properties.

Sub-subseries 1. Newport
Box 3, Folder 40-44

Sub-subseries 2. 181 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston

Sub-subseries 3. Camp Yawgoo, Rhode Island
Box 3, Folder 58

Sub-subseries 4. North Burial Ground
Box 3, Folder 59

Sub-subseries 5. Miscellaneous

Subseries N. 50 South Main Street, 1900-1932
This subseries contains correspondence between Natalie Bayard Brown and the business office at 50 South Main Street. George Matteson until his death in 1908 and Frank Matteson until his death in 1933 were the principle financial advisors of Natalie following the death of her husband in 1900. They were executors of the various trusts and handled the investments for the trusts. They corresponded frequently with Natalie regarding investment strategies, and notified her when issues arose affecting any of the trusts.

This correspondence from 1900 through 1903 has been preserved in the form of Natalie Bayard Brown’s personal files. It contains the originals from 50 South Main Street attached to Natalie Bayard Brown’s copies. The correspondence from 1903-1933 are the original office files that were kept at 50 South Main Street. It contains the copies of correspondence from 50 South Main Street attached to Natalie Bayard Brown’s original letters. Unfortunately, Natalie Bayard Brown’s personal files, which should have contained the original correspondence from 50 South Main Street, have not been located.

See also:

• 50 South Main Street Trading Syndicate records
• Estate of John Carter Brown, 50 South Main Street, records
• Brown Land Company records
• Counting House Corporation records
• Narragansett Land Company records
• Weybosset Land Company records

Subseries O. Purchases
This small subseries contains Natalie Bayard Brown’s Christmas lists for the years 1903 to 1905. Included on her lists are family members and friends. In 1896, Natalie Bayard Brown purchased a bicycle, from Pexster, Freres, French merchants. The correspondence regarding this purchase is located within this subseries.

Series 2. Financial
This series contains Natalie Bayard Brown’s financial records beginning in 1893 to her death in 1950, but it is by no means complete. Investments, Trust Income, Personal Expenses and Tax returns are represented in this series. Until his death in 1933, Frank Matteson was the personal financial advisor of Natalie Bayard Brown. He handled her accounts and authorized payment of her bills. Natalie’s personal secretary, Miss Charlotte Burleigh took care of the more mundane and routine accounts payable.

Subseries A. Investments
This subseries includes correspondence and financial information regarding Natalie Bayard Brown’s investments. Prior to the death of Frank Matteson, all investments were handled by the office at 50 South Main Street. After Matteson’s death, Natalie hired Henry F. Colt as her new advisor. She befriended Bryan Newkirk and heavily invested in his companies: Franco Oils and Vermilion.

Sub-subseries 1. Franco Oils/Vermilion (Canada)
The companies of Franco Oils and Vermilion prospected for oil in western Canada, specifically Alberta. Natalie Bayard Brown was interested in this area of investment, and became friendly with the promoter, Bryan Newkirk. American born of Dutch descent, Newkirk promoted the value of oil investments. In 1938, prior to investing, Natalie had a background search conducted by Dun & Bradstreet regarding the character of Bryan Newkirk. Natalie Bayard Brown and Newkirk visit on occasion, most usually in New York City. They corresponded quite frequently until 1943. Newkirk sent many Canadian newspaper clippings to Natalie Bayard Brown to show her the progress of the oil exploration and exhumation.

Sub-subseries 2. Henry F. Colt, 1933-1942
With the death of Frank Matteson in 1933, Natalie Bayard Brown lost her financial advisor and she turned to Henry F. Colt for advice. She gave him power of attorney in 1934 and the management of her financial portfolio. Colt made decisions regarding Natalie Bayard Brown’s investments, and Kent Matteson, Frank’s son, carried out the orders from the office at 50 South Main Street, Providence. During World War II, Henry Colt was a Lieutenant Colonel working for the War Department, Office of the Quartermaster General

Sub-subseries 3. Miscellaneous
Before her marriage in 1897, Natalie Bayard Brown received a small inheritance from her grandmother’s estate. From 1893 to her marriage, Natalie Bayard invested her money in bonds, sugar commodities and the Delaware and Hudson Canal Co. In 1916, Natalie Bayard Brown purchased 100 shares of stock, investing in the Big Jim Gold Mining Company. The company failed that same year.

Subseries B. Trust income, 1901-1950
Cashbooks and a ledger book detail Natalie Bayard Brown’s trust income and all financial transactions. A complete run of Cashbooks exist, beginning in 1901, and end with her death in 1950. A ledger book for the years 1923 to 1937 is also available. Natalie Bayard Brown, as widow of John Nicholas Brown, was a beneficiary of the John Nicholas Brown under will trust. These books were maintained at 50 South Main Street.

Subseries C. Personal expenses
Included in Natalie Bayard Brown’s personal expenses are accounts payable, a limited amount of accounts receivable, canceled checks, check registers, bank statements, balance sheets, vouchers, receipts and details regarding the NBB Special Account and the Harbour Court Account. The NBB Special Account and Harbour Court Account were managed by Frank Matteson at 50 South Main Street. Following Matteson’s death, the accounts were managed by Rhode Island Hospital Trust Bank.

Sub-subseries 1. Bills - Accounts Payable, 1893-1938, undated
These bills contain Natalie Bayard Brown bills prior to her marriage in 1897. Included are rent receipts for her Paris apartment from 1894 - 1896 at 15 Rue Vernet. Also accounted for are payments to the butler, other household help, seamstresses, dry goods vendors, clothing, western union telegraphs, stamps, envelopes, clothing, shoes, hats, dry goods, life insurance, silver, flowers, and pharmaceuticals. The quantity of bills tremendously increased in 1897 especially as the wedding approached. Natalie’s trousseau, consisting of wedding gown, linens and other sundries are included. A. Guerin & Texier imported several of her gowns. Also contained within this subseries are bills received by Natalie Bayard Brown after the death of her husband in 1900, until the settlement of the estate in 1901. Bills received by the couple while John Nicholas Brown was alive are located in the John Nicholas Brown papers. These bills run from May 1900 - March 1901 and include many of the everyday living expenses incurred by Natalie Bayard Brown and her infant son, John. Numerous merchants are represented: dry goods, fruits, vegetables, dairy, butcher; as well as the monthly bills: telephone, telegraph, gas light, secretarial help and domestic help. There are very few bills existing after the settlement of the estate; presumably, most regular living expenses were paid by the John Nicholas Brown minor account, NBB special account or the Harbour Court Account.

Sub-subseries 2. Bills - Accounts Receivable, 1900-1901
This sub-subseries contains bills generated by Natalie Bayard Brown and paid by the John Nicholas Brown, minor account. They are to compensate Natalie Bayard Brown for expenses incurred in the care and maintenance of her son. The bill for November 1900 covers the period from the death of John Nicholas Brown (1869 - 1900). The other bills cover November 1900 - January 1901, February 1901 and March 1901.

Sub-subseries 3. Canceled checks, 1897-1908
Following the marriage of Natalie Bayard Brown and John Nicholas Brown, the couple utilized the National Bank of Commerce in New York and Merchants Bank in Newport. After the death of John Nicholas Brown, Natalie used the Rhode Island Hospital Trust Bank and briefly used the Knickerbocker Trust Company in New York (1906 - 1908). Check registers exist for the National Bank of Commerce in New York and the Knickerbocker Trust Company, but not for the Merchant’s Bank and Rhode Island Hospital Trust. (See Sub-subseries 4 for corresponding check registers.)

Sub-subseries 4. Check registers, 1893-1909
In 1893, Natalie Bayard Brown received an inheritance from the estate of her grandmother and deposited the money in the New York Life Insurance and Trust Company of New York. No canceled checks exist for this bank. In 1897, Natalie and her husband banked at the National Bank of Commerce in New York, and most of these canceled checks have survived. Many times John Nicholas Brown wrote the checks and Natalie signed them. After John Nicholas Brown’s death in 1900, Miss Burleigh stepped in and many of the register entries are in her hand. (See Subseries 3 for corresponding canceled checks.) The entries for the Knickerbocker Trust Company were written predominantly by George Matteson for the years 1908 - 1909.

Sub-subseries 5. Bank statements, balance sheets, vouchers, and receipts , 1896-1942
This grouping contains bank balance sheets, vouchers and income statements of Natalie Bayard Brown prior to her marriage in 1897 until 1898. Also included are receipts from Daniel LeRoy Dresser for the living expenses of Natalie Bayard Brown prior to her marriage. Also contained are vouchers, bank account books, and bank balance sheets accumulated after Natalie Bayard Brown’s marriage to her death in 1950. The following banks are represented: National Bank of Commerce in New York, Merchants Bank, Knickerbocker Trust Company, Rhode Island Hospital Trust Company and the Providence Institution for Savings. (See Sub-subseries 3 and 4 for corresponding canceled checks and registers.)

Sub-subseries 6. NBB special account, 1915-1950
The NBB Special Account was managed by 50 South Main Street and Rhode Island Hospital Trust Company. It includes accounts payable, canceled checks, and trial balance book, but no check registers. This account covered Natalie Bayard Brown’s automobile purchases and expenses, as well as all types of insurance, namely auto, home, personal property, and workman’s comp. This special account paid for investments and legal expenses incurred from Edwards and Angell, in addition to some taxes. The Emmanuel Church construction and furbishing was handled by this account.

Sub-subseries 7. Harbour Court account
This special account was set up and administered through 50 South Main St., and was used to pay for the upkeep and maintenance of the Harbour Court estate. Included in this grouping are accounts receivable and accounts payable arranged by year and type of bill: repair and maintenance, garden, utilities, and stable. John Nicholas Brown deposited money into this account for his mother to cover these expenses.

Also included in this account are wage receipts for outdoor employees of Harbour Court, gardeners, groomsmen, etc. They were paid from this account even though the canceled checks are NBB special checks. The original order of these wage receipts has been maintained, alphabetical and then chronological. The wage receipts span a decade, 1932 – 1942, and record the employment of twenty-three men. The most long-lived employees were Timothy Brennan, James Grant, John Grant, Manuel Mello and John Watson.

Sub-subseries 8. Statements, 1928-1949

Subseries D. Tax returns, 1913-1952
These federal fiscal documents span almost a half a century and in many ways reflect or mirror the fiscal history of the country. In addition to the tax forms, this subseries includes related papers: worksheets, receipts, employee information, real estate holdings, a record of charitable contributions, and tax protests. There is a complete run of federal tax returns, 1913 – 1952, including the settlement of the Natalie Bayard Brown Estate, 1950 - 1952.

Series 3. Legal
This series contains legal documents concerning the settlement of various estates in which Natalie Bayard Brown was either an executrix or beneficiary. Additionally, there are records regarding the legal and financial difficulties of Daniel LeRoy Dresser, various Newport Properties, including Harbour Court, loans, bequests, Natalie Bayard Brown’s will and her estate settlement. Also found in this series are a few miscellaneous contracts, a mortgage deed, a trust indenture and leases for residences in Boston and New York City.

Subseries A. Estates
With the death of Susan LeRoy, Natalie Bayard Brown, as a beneficiary of her grandmother’s estate, received an inheritance. She authorized her brother to act on her behalf and transferred power of attorney to him in 1892. Natalie Bayard Brown was named executrix for Sabina Sartorius and Kate Conner, long time employees. She was a beneficiary of the estate of Georgie B.C. Heredia, a friend, and involved in the settlement of the estate of Marie Rambard, her Parisian landlady.

See also:

• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 8. Photographs, for a picture of Georgie B.C. Heredia, and pictures of Marie Rambard and Kate Conner.

Subseries B. Daniel LeRoy Dresser
Born in 1866, Daniel LeRoy Dresser was the only brother of Natalie Bayard Brown. He graduated from Columbia College, married Emma Burnham and had two children. At Natalie Bayard Brown’s request, he was made a trustee of the minor estate. He resigned as trustee due to his financial and legal difficulties. He was constantly borrowing money from his wealthy sisters, defaulting on various loans, and involving his sisters in his financial dealings.

Subseries C. Newport properties
Included in this subseries are legal documents concerning various Newport properties purchased by Natalie Bayard Brown. The properties were used primarily for rental income. 31 Old Beach Road became the permanent residence of the Viscountess d’Osmoy. Information regarding the purchase of the Dickey Estate in 1903 and the subsequent construction of Harbour Court is located within this subseries. These papers include the deeds, titles, contracts, building specifications, and related bills. On Christmas in 1931, John Nicholas Brown generously gave his mother Harbour Court. This Deed of Grant signed by both John Nicholas Brown and his wife, Anne S.K. Brown, gave Natalie Bayard Brown the exclusive right to occupy and enjoy Harbour Court for the remainder of her life.

Subseries D. Boston property
In 1919 Natalie Bayard Brown leased a residence at 181 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, when her son, John Nicholas Brown, enrolled at Harvard University. Included in this subseries are the lease, note and mortgage, and deed. Correspondence related to the rental and sale of 181 Commonwealth is located within Series 1. Correspondence, Subseries L. Real estate.

Subseries E. Loans
In 1910, Natalie Bayard Brown gave A.O’D Taylor $1,500 in the form of a note. He died shortly thereafter and his estate refused to honor the note, citing insolvency and lack of funds. The case was referred to William Sheffield for collection. Two years later, in August 1912, Natalie Bayard Brown granted a mortgage loan #1329 to Nellie Pickles for the sum of $2,000. This loan was paid in full. Natalie Bayard Brown guaranteed a note of $6,500 (dated March 5, 1948) for Emil Pflock and Frank G. Wheeler (dba Wheelock) that was subsequently cancelled. Another note for the two men in the amount of $5,706.44 was executed.

Subseries F. Bequests
This subseries contains a legal acknowledgment of the transfer of securities and cash of the Trust of the Estate of John Nicholas Brown under will from the trustees to John Nicholas Brown in 1925. Also contained are the details of the John Nicholas Brown under will bequests to Natalie Bayard Brown. In 1916, Natalie Bayard Brown, in conjunction with Rhode Island Hospital Trust acting as trustee, set up a trust for the benefit of her sister, Pauline Merrill. In 1927, an Indenture trust document regarding the Merrill trust was drawn up by the parties involved.

Subseries G. Legal counsel
Walter Edwards of the Providence firm Edwards and Angell was Natalie Bayard Brown’s legal counsel during the later part of her life. In 1934, Natalie Bayard Brown transferred power of attorney to her financial advisor, Henry F. Colt. In 1938, Natalie Bayard Brown gave Edwards power of attorney. Walter Edwards, John Nicholas Brown, and Henry F. Colt were the executors of the will of Natalie Bayard Brown.

Subseries H. Natalie Bayard Brown will
This subseries contains several copies of the will of Natalie Bayard Brown in addition to an extensive appraisal of her personal property.

Subseries I. Natalie Bayard Brown estate settlement
Contained within this subseries is correspondence, accounts payable, accounts receivable, receipts acknowledging distributions, account summaries, settlement agreements, bank statements and canceled checks regarding the settlement of the estate of Natalie Bayard Brown. Included among the account payables are funeral expenses and doctors’ bills. The accounts receivable detail stock liquidation sales of municipal bonds, blue chip companies, and speculative ventures. The receipts a/c distributions detail the bequests under will of Natalie Bayard Brown and includes signed receipts from each beneficiary. The account summary contains a formal listing of Natalie Bayard Brown’s assets, holdings, stock gains and losses and all income at the time of her death. Constructed by the executors, John Nicholas Brown, Henry F. Colt and Walter A. Edwards, this detailed typescript included worksheets and drafts. The settlement agreement was made between John Nicholas Brown, Henry F. Colt and Walter A. Edwards as executors, and John Nicholas Brown as Trustee and the Rhode Island Hospital Trust Bank and Fred M. Langton, Tax Administrator for the State of Rhode Island. This settlement agreement details provisions of the will, value of net estate, beneficiary listing and amount of tax paid. The bank statements and canceled checks from Rhode Island Hospital Trust Bank run from January 2, 1951 to April 14, 1953; however, no check register has been located.

Sub-subseries 1. Correspondence, 1950-1952

Sub-subseries 2. Bills

Sub-subseries 3. Receipts a/c distributions
Box 9, Folder 40-46

Sub-subseries 4. Account summary

Sub-subseries 5. Settlement agreement & delegation

Sub-subseries 6. Executors under will of Natalie Bayard Brown , 1950-1952
Box 2

Sub-subseries 7. Bank statements and canceled checks

Subseries J. Miscellaneous
This subseries includes contracts, leases, assignment of mortgages, and a copy of a trust deed. The signed contracts between Natalie Bayard Brown and the telephone company exist for the years 1901 - 1902. 1n 1919, Natalie Bayard Brown rented 18 Exeter Street in Boston. In 1903 - 1904, Natalie Bayard Brown rented two apartments in the Warrington in New York City. The Copy of the trust deed between Mary Augusta King and Rhode Island Hospital Trust concerns Dresser land in Newport, Rhode Island, that was held in trust for Natalie Bayard Brown and her sisters. One of the leases (encompassing 1901 to 1906) between Natalie Bayard Brown and Elizabeth Shepard for 35 Brown Street also included an inventory of items in the house.

Series 4. Writings and speeches
This series includes writings and speeches written and given by Natalie Bayard Brown. Natalie Bayard Brown was an influential member of society. She participated in numerous political, civic and church related activities, and frequently was called upon to lecture at functions. An effective public speaker, Natalie Bayard Brown had the ability to rally people to support her causes. Evidently, Natalie Bayard Brown enjoyed the art of writing, for she penned quite a few short stories.

Subseries A. Political
This subseries contains Natalie Bayard Brown’s writings and speeches concerning the elections of 1928, 1930, 1932. She participated in the democratic process on the national and local levels. She championed the candidacy of Governor Al Smith and Governor Franklin D. Roosevelt for the office of President of the United States. She supported the re-election campaign of Mayor Sullivan of Newport, and Sen. Peter Gerry of Rhode Island. She voiced her opinion regarding these following issues: the repeal of prohibition, immigration, and probation officers.

See also:

• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 1. Correspondence.
• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 6. Scrapbooks.
• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 7. Clippings.

Subseries B. Civic
Box 9, Folder 63-64
"Why has patriotism survived?", written by Natalie Bayard Brown, was a paper read at the Tuesday Club on January 12, 1937. In 1944, Natalie Bayard Brown read a paper at the Zion Methodist Church concerning the war and the anticipated homecoming.

See also:

• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 1. Correspondence.
• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 6. Scrapbooks.
• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 7. Clippings.

Subseries C. Church
On November 20, 1913, Natalie Bayard Brown delivered an essay about English Cathedrals at the Emmanuel Church parish house. Natalie Bayard Brown considered Ralph Adams Cram, architect of Emmanuel Church, to be the greatest church architect in the country. He authored English Country Churches: One Hundred Views Selected by Ralph Adams Cram, Architect, published in 1898 in Boston by the Bates & Guild Company. Also included in this subseries is an address on the General Convention of 1925 given at Trinity Church in Newport by Natalie Bayard Brown. This address detailed her attendance at the General Convention and her general observations.

See also:

• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 1. Correspondence.
• Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Series 8. Photographs.

Subseries D. Fiction
Natalie Bayard Brown wrote short stories. Some of these works are in manuscript form and some typescript form.

Subseries E. Miscellaneous
Contained within this subseries are two typescript copies of biographical sketches of John Carter Brown and John Nicholas Brown (1861 - 1900) written for the National Cyclopedia of American Biography, published in New York by James T. While & Co. Although the authorship of these articles is unclear, penciled corrections in Natalie Bayard Brown’s hand appear in one of the articles.

Series 5. Travel
This series contains eleven descriptive and wonderfully narrative travel diaries. The interior items removed from the diaries were placed in upright folders. Also, this series contains car mileage logs kept by Natalie Bayard Brown. These logs, although not as descriptive as the diaries, provide information regarding the travels or vacations of Natalie Bayard Brown.

Subseries A. Travel diaries, 1908-1929
Natalie Bayard Brown kept detailed diaries to record many of her extensive travels. These travel diaries in many instances provide a day-by-day itinerary of her travels in addition to observations of local people, customs and natural sites. Natalie Bayard Brown spent a great deal of time in Europe visiting family, friends and acquaintances as well as sightseeing. On a trip to Italy in 1908, she wrote that this was her first tour in an automobile. When travel to Europe was halted during the First World War, Natalie and her family traveled across the continent and wintered in southern California. On the way, the travelers visited many of this country’s most beautiful natural wonders. They saw the Painted Desert, the Petrified Forest, Yosemite and the Grand Canyon. After the signing of the Armistice in 1919, Natalie and her son traveled to Japan for an extended tour. Very impressed with Japanese culture, artwork and people, Natalie remarked, "how primitive in its habits and methods or lack of method that one wonders how they can as yet attempt to compete with the rest of the world, and yet on the other hand they have accomplished much in a short time..." In 1923, the Brown entourage embarked on a river trip up the Nile to Nubia. Along the way, they stopped at many historical and ancient sites. They saw the Pyramids, the Sphinx, and the Tombs of many kings and queens. They witnessed the excavation of the Tomb of Tutankhamen and saw beautiful objects extracted from the tomb. At the conclusion of the Nile journey, the group visited Palestine, toured historical and religious sites and departed for Europe. In 1929, Natalie Bayard Brown, her son, John Nicholas, and their traveling party departed for an extensive cruise throughout the Greek Islands, stopping in Greece to visit Athens, Sparta and the ancient ruins.

Subseries B. Car logs
Natalie Bayard Brown’s car logs provide a record of places visited, dates, distances traveled, weather and road conditions, and include some observations. They chronicle domestic and foreign travel, but in no way are as complete as the travel diaries. Among the places traveled, New England, Canada and Europe are the most frequented.

Series 6. Scrapbooks
Natalie Bayard Brown constructed scrapbooks to commemorate significant people, places and events that touched her life. She began creating scrapbooks in 1882 after the death of her parents. She constructed several family scrapbooks, a political scrapbook, several civic scrapbooks, a post card scrapbook and a membership scrapbook. In addition to newspaper and pamphlet clippings, the scrapbooks often include photographs, correspondence and telegrams.

Subseries A. Family
This subseries contains two family scrapbooks that record the history of the Brown Family. The first Brown Family Scrapbook begins with the death of John Nicholas Brown (1861 - 1900) and includes the construction of Emmanuel Church, the John Nicholas Brown Gate at Brown University and the John Carter Brown Library. The second Brown Family Scrapbook covers the period, 1910 to 1931 and records marriages, civic league activities, an article about Desmond Fitzgerald, and the moving of 50 South Main Street.

Subseries B. Family, friends, and acquaintances
This scrapbook, primarily containing newspaper clippings, begins in 1882. It features obituaries, engagements, weddings and other items regarding Newport and New York’s elite society. Interestingly, in one of the clippings, detailing the Watts Sherman/ Sophia Augusta Brown wedding, Natalie Bayard Dresser and her sisters are listed as guests. This scrapbook is in need of conservation and is in a very delicate state. The binding is broken and the pages falling out. A partial photocopy of the original was made, and all of the inserts and clippings found loose in the scrapbook have been placed in an upright folder.

Subseries C. Political
Box 28X, Folder 1
This subseries contain one scrapbook detailing the election of 1928. Natalie Bayard Brown enthusiastically supported the candidacy of Governor Al Smith during the election. She was an elector for Al Smith and cast her vote at the meeting of the electoral college.

Subseries D. Civic
These scrapbooks document the activities of the Newport Civic League from 1905 - 1914, and the Pasadena Civic League. Natalie Bayard Brown was a long-lived member and past president of the Newport Civic League. One entire scrapbook is devoted to the Child Welfare Exhibit sponsored by the Newport Civic League, March 24, 1913 to March 29, 1913.

Subseries E. Memberships
This subseries contains one scrapbook recording the activities of the Women’s Foreign Missionary Society Jubilee of 1911. Natalie Bayard Brown served as chair of the committee organizing the Jubilee. She received congratulatory letters regarding the success of the Jubilee, the envelopes of which were glued into the scrapbook. The correspondence within the envelopes was removed and placed in the correspondence series of the Natalie Bayard Brown papers, Memberships subseries. The glued envelopes remained in the pages of the scrapbook.

Subseries F. Postcards
Box 21C
This single scrapbook contains many unique postcards sent and received by Natalie Bayard Brown. Postcards depicting Newport, Providence and New York dominate. There are many series postcards and postcards catering to children.

Series 7. Clippings
Natalie Bayard Brown loved to collect newspaper articles about herself and her family. For important occasions, she would hire a clipping service, Henry Romeike of New York. This service sent to Natalie clippings from around the country regarding a particular event. Romaine included the name of the newspaper, address of the paper, date of publication and a copy of the article and mailed the clippings to Natalie at her home. These clippings have been filed in upright file folders or flat, depending upon the article size. They have not been photocopied onto archival bond. Natalie Bayard Brown clipped newspapers articles concerning family members, church related activities, the Newport Civic League and political activities. Also included in this series are entire editions of various newspapers. The newspapers, primarily concerning political activities, have been flat filed. The following papers are represented: Today: An Independent National Weekly, New York Herald Tribune, Sunday Star Magazine, New York Times, News Tribune, Providence Journal, Providence Evening Bulletin, Boston Herald, Boston Evening Transcript, Boston Chronicle, Newport Herald, Newport Daily News, Washington Herald, Washington Post, Washington Times, Baltimore Evening Sun. Among her papers, Natalie had a copy of an 1804 edition of Poulson’s American Daily Advertiser. This paper reported the Nicholas Brown financial donation to Rhode Island College.

Subseries A. Engagement

Subseries B. Wedding

Subseries C. Family

Subseries D. Church
Box 11, Folder 9

Subseries E. Civic
Box 11, Folder 10-11

Subseries F. Political

Subseries G. Miscellaneous
Contained within this group of clippings are various obituaries including those of Col. Goddard in 1916 and George Matteson in 1909, as well as a newspaper article about the excavation of King Tutankhamen’s tomb. The March 13, 1936, edition of the Evening Bulletin was saved by Natalie Bayard Brown. It headlined prewar activities in France; Natalie’s sister, Susan, resided in France. Also included are 1896 newspaper clippings concerning the activities of society in the United States. These clippings were mailed to Natalie Bayard Brown at her Paris apartment. A green leather bound clipping holder with multiple compartments is located in the subseries.

Series 8. Photographs
This collection contains wonderful photographic scrapbooks that correspond with the life of Natalie Bayard Brown. It includes pictures of family, friends, dwellings, Emmanuel Church and travels. Many of the photographs were taken by Natalie Bayard Brown and provide great visual documentation to accompany her papers.

Subseries A. Family

Subseries B. Civic

Subseries C. Travel

Series 9. Artwork
This series includes artwork created by Natalie Bayard Brown and her son (John Nicholas Brown), siblings (Daniel LeRoy Dresser and Susan, Viscountess d’Osmoy), and nephew (George Merrill). Natalie Bayard Brown’s artwork reflects her appreciation of the natural landscape and her enthusiasm for painting. John Nicholas Brown’s artwork consists of childhood works saved by his mother. The watercolor sketches by Daniel LeRoy Dresser are mostly of Newport, with some portraits and caricatures. The Viscountess d’Osmoy’s painting is of Natalie Bayard Brown’s poodle, Pom-Pom, and George Merrill’s drawing is of an urban horizon seen from the waterfront.

Subseries A. Natalie Bayard Brown

Subseries B. John Nicholas Brown (1900-1979)

Subseries C. Daniel LeRoy Dresser

Subseries D. Susan, Viscountess d’Osmoy

Subseries E. George Merrill

Series 10. Miscellaneous
Included in this series are various address books, autograph books, baby books, cards, ephemera, memorabilia and keepsakes belonging to Natalie Bayard Brown.

Subseries A. Address books
These books provide an alphabetical listing of Natalie Bayard Brown’s family, friends and selected merchants. In addition to the names, the address and phone numbers are included.

Subseries B. Autograph books
This subseries contains two autograph books dating from 1877 that belonged to Natalie Bayard Brown. It includes signatures of family members, friends and teachers.

Subseries C. Baby books – John Nicholas Brown
The baby books record the height, weight, illnesses, accomplishments, and gifts received by John Nicholas Brown (1900 - 1979) as a baby and child.

Subseries D. Cards
The cards include a Christmas card from Yamanaka and Company, Boston, and a business card from Dante Gambinossi Inc., 538 Madison Avenue, New York.

Subseries E. Death certificates
This subseries is comprised of two certificates verifying the death of George Matteson on November 16, 1908.

Subseries F. Keepsake
This subseries contains a Merrymount Press 1922 keepsake for Natalie Bayard Brown and Georgette Brown, presumably printed by Daniel Berkeley Updike, a family friend of the Browns.

Subseries G. Ledger
This undated ledger was kept during a trip to Europe that included France and Italy.

Subseries H. Magazines

Subseries I. Memorabilia
The memorabilia in this subseries highlights Natalie Bayard Brown’s honored place in society. Natalie Bayard Brown received an invitation to the inauguration and inaugural ball of Theodore Roosevelt held on March 4, 1905. The memorabilia related to the coronation of George V includes tickets to the Royal Progress and Coronation Procession and an invitation to meet the Duke and Duchess of Connaught. Natalie Bayard Brown also saved the Procession and Quadrille program and a menu from the Berkeley Hotel.

Subseries J. Notes

Subseries K. Pamphlets and printed material
Represented in this subseries is a 1935 rendition of the Newport Garden Association’s pamphlet, and a pamphlet commemorating a 1947 memorial service for James DeWolf Perry, Bishop of Rhode Island. The printed materials include a commemorative publication celebrating the opening of the Providence Public Library’s new building (crediting John Nicholas Brown with his generous donation) and a membership solicitation and Bulletin from the Society for the Preservation of New England Antiquities. While it is unconfirmed whether Natalie Bayard Brown was a passenger, a passenger list from the R.M.S. Aquitania lists Mrs. J. Nicholas Brown and John B. Brown (a possible misprint of his middle initial). The ephemera and notes include a humorous story, a sympathy card from Natalie Bayard Brown, prayer cards, an 1870 Café Voisin menu, a notice from the post office regarding the lack of a mail receptacle outside 181 Commonwealth Avenue, and an invitation to a lunch honoring the Prince and Princess of Sweden on June 16 in Newport, Rhode Island.

Subseries L. Photographs, 1931-1940
This subseries consists of black and white photographs, some of which have been colorized, of entries to the Newport Flower Show. Although the presumption is that the entries were those of Natalie Bayard Brown, there is no information to confirm that. Notes on the photographs indicated which entries won prizes at the show.

Subseries M. Postcards
The postcards are of a Ceylon Village at the Franco-British Exhibition of 1908 and Saint-Malo, on the Island of Grand Bé.

Subseries N. Published book
An 1898 edition of an obstetrics text that was owned by Natalie Bayard Brown.

Subseries O. Visits paid and received book
This bound book records the names and dates people visited Natalie Bayard Brown between 1912 and 1926.

Subseries P. Film - 16mm