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OVERVIEWMinnesota Historical Society Musser, Laura Jane, 1916-1989, creator. Laura Jane Musser and family papers. 1842-1989 (bulk 1880-1989). Personal papers documenting the careers and interests of Laura Jane Musser, her parents Richard Drew and Sarah Walker Musser, her sisters Alice and Mary, and related families. 44.25 cubic feet (44 boxes). See Detailed Description section for shelf locations. BIOGRAPHICAL NOTE Laura Jane Musser
Laura Jane Musser was born in Minneapolis, June 4, 1916, to Richard Drew and Sarah Walker Musser of Little Falls, Minnesota. She was educated at home until her seventh year, then attended a private school, and later graduated from Central High School, Little Falls in 1933. She attended Hartridge School in Plainfield, New Jersey, and Monticello College, Godfrey in Illinois (1934-1937). Musically talented, she lived, off and on, in New York City from 1937 until the death of her mother in 1953. She attended the Julliard School of Music, and took private lessons from prominent pianists. While in New York City she lived for a while at International House, where she met many foreign students and became interested in racial tolerance and equality.
Laura Jane had a wide variety of friends, among them the singer Marian Anderson and her nephew James DePreist Anderson, the young African American pianist Philippa Duke Schuyler and her parents, Hilda McCoy of the historically black Rust College (Holly Spring, Arkansas), actress Margaret Hamilton, and pianist Van Cliburn.
Returning to Little Falls permanently, she became involved in all aspects of the city's life. She taught piano, served on the school board (1975-1976), worked on historic preservation projects, and was a member of many civic organizations. She also participated in the work of the Minnesota Historical Society, Minneapolis/ Minnesota Orchestra, the Minnesota Arts Board, and similar groups. She died in Little Falls on November 12, 1989.
Richard Drew Musser
The son of Peter and Tamson (Rhodes) Musser of Muscatine, Iowa, Richard Drew Musser was born in Chinese Camp, Stockton, California, November 14, 1865. At the time Peter was engaged in a number of mining ventures in the area. He returned to Muscatine in the 1870s, where he organized the Musser Lumber Company. Richard D. was educated in the Muscatine public schools, and graduated from the University of Iowa in 1888 with a degree in civil engineering. While at the University he was a member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity, and of Company "C" of the University National Guard. Following graduation he worked as a tanner and in mines in the South, and finally entered the lumber business in the early 1890s. He worked first in the Musser Lumber Company's office in St. Paul, Minnesota and then moved to Little Falls, Minnesota where, with Charles A. Weyerhaeuser, he formed the Pine Tree Lumber Company. He held many offices in the company until his death, and was also associated with the Immigration Land Company, the Crow Wing Land Company, the Morrison County Lumber Company, and a number of other lumber and paper manufacturing firms.
Musser was also active in many other organizations in Little Falls: hospitals, the Little Falls Country Club, the Masons, the First Congregational Church, and other civic organizations. He was also a trustee of Carleton College for many years.
Sarah Walker Musser
The daughter of Thaddeus and Margaret (Otis) Walker, Sarah Walker Musser was born in Glens Falls, New York in 1879, and married Richard Musser in Cloquet, Minnesota, June 3, 1903. From 1897 to 1899 she lived in Berlin, Germany, where she studied German language and literature. In 1902 she came to visit her sister, Jane Walker Taylor, whose husband Huntington was a foreman in the Cloquet (Minn.) Lumber Company. At this time she met Richard Musser. After their marriage the couple moved to Little Falls, Minnesota.
Sarah Musser was active in Little Falls community life. She helped organize the Civic League, and was active in the Musical Arts Club, the Child Interest Club, and the First Congregational Church. She also served on the Minnesota State Board of Education in the 1920s and 1930s.
Sarah and Richard's first child, Peter, died at birth in 1910. They adopted a daughter, Mary, in 1915, and in 1916 Laura Jane was born. At some time before 1915, the Mussers became legal guardians of Alice Deppman, who lived with the family until her marriage to Edward Clark Davidson in 1921. Although she took the Musser name, it is not clear whether she was formally adopted by the Mussers.
SCOPE AND CONTENTS
The collection consists of correspondence; biographical and autobiographical materials; wills; financial records; newspaper clippings; diaries, scrapbooks and other volumes; school records; and related materials documenting the careers and interests of Laura Jane Musser, her parents Richard Drew and Sarah Walker Musser, her sisters Alice and Mary, and related families (Dudley, Dwelle, Huttig, Otis, Taylor, and Walker). A small collection of records of the Pine Tree Lumber Company and its successor, the Pine tree Manufacturing Company is also in the collection.
Extensive correspondence files of Laura Jane, her parents, and sisters give much information on family life, relationships among the members of the Musser and related families and information on births, deaths, marriages, and other data on all branches of the family. Diaries, especially those of Sarah Walker Musser, contain details of trips to Europe and other places. Also included in the collection are household receipts and similar materials relating to the Musser home in Little Falls, Minnesota, as well as correspondence files arranged by subject and individual.
Other papers of interest include four scrapbooks kept by Laura Jane documenting the careers of African American artists, including Marian Anderson, Dorothy Maynor, Philippa Duke Schuyler, and others (1938-1944), and correspondence and miscellany relating to pianists Van Cliburn and Philippa Duke Schuyler. The collection also includes Laura Jane's school papers (1928-1940) and correspondence and other papers relating to the Frank L. Baum family and the "Wizard of Oz books" (1914-1989).
ARRANGEMENT
These records are divided into the following five series:
Laura Jane Musser Papers, 1922-1989:
Background Materials Biographical Information Laura Jane Musser Correspondence Files Miscellaneous Personal Papers Papers Arranged by Individual Subject Files Oz Materials Sarah M. Walker Musser Papers, 1882-1953:Miscellaneous Personal Papers Diaries Other Volumes Correspondence Files Richard Drew Musser Papers, 1842-1958 (Includes the Pine Tree Lumber/Manufacturing Company records):Musser Family Materials Legal, Financial and Real Estate Records Miscellaneous Personal Papers Pine Tree Lumber Company/Pine Tree Manufacturing Company Correspondence Files Richard and Sarah Musser Papers, 1905-1959:Alice, Laura Jane, and Mary Musser Corresondence Musser Household Records Musser Family Papers, 1852-1956:Related Families Will and Estate Documents, 1901-1908 - Photographs Business, Family Friends, and Miscellaneous ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION Access Restrictions:
Some digitized originals are closed. Access and use requires the curator's permission.
Some of these files are located off site in Remote Storage. Advance arrangements are required in order to view the files.
Please consult reference staff for more information.
Preferred Citation:
[Indicate the cited item and/or series here]. Laura Jane Musser and Family Papers. Minnesota Historical Society.
See the Chicago Manual of Style for additional examples.
Accession Information:
Accession number: 14,999
Processing Information:
Digitized by: Minnesota Historical Society, August 2019, July 2021.
Processed by: Kathryn A. Johnson (1995) and Lara D. Friedman-Shedlov (1998)
Catalog ID number: 990017351840104294
CATALOG HEADINGS Topics:African American musicians. African American teachers. African American universities and colleges. Astrology. Benefactors -- Minnesota -- Little Falls. Children, Adopted -- Minnesota -- Little Falls. Environmental protection. Home economics -- Minnesota -- Little Falls -- Accounting Lumber trade -- Iowa Lumber trade -- Minnesota. Music therapy -- Minnesota -- Bemidji. Race relations. Religious tolerance. Women -- Education. Oz (Imaginary place). Places:Berlin (Germany). Europe -- Description and travel. Hawaii -- Description and travel. Little Falls (Minn.). Muscatine (Iowa). Persons:Anderson, Marian, 1897-1993, author. Atkins, Laura Musser McColm, 1877-1965, author. Avrit, Sally Taylor, author. Baum, L. Frank, (Lyman Frank). 1856-1919. Cliburn, Van, 1934-2013, author. Davidson, Alice Musser, author. DePriest, James Anderson, 1936- author. Dudley, family. Dwelle family. Hutte family. Huttig, Annie Mussner, 1862-1919, author. Huttig, Charles Henry, 1863-1913, author. Kapnser, Charles Gilbert, author. King, Mary Musser, 1915- author. Maynor, Dorothy, 1910- . Musser family. Musser, Peter, 1826-1910, author. Musser, Richard Drew, 1865-1958, author. Musser, Sarah Walker, 1879-1953, author. Musser, Tamson Rhodes, 1837-1896, author. Otis family. Schuyler, Philippa, author. Taylor family. Taylor, Margaret E., 1901-1982, author. Walker family. Walker, Otis Lawrence, 1882-1937, author. Weyerhaeuser, Charles Augustus, author. Weyerhaeuser family. Organizations:Charles A. Lindbergh House (Little Falls, Minn.). Hartridge School (Plainfield, N.J.). Minneapolis Symphony Orchestra. Minnesota Historical Society. Minnesota Orchestra. Monticello College (Godfrey, Ill.). Pine Tree Lumber Company (Little Falls, Minn.), author. Pine Tree Manufacturing Company (Little Falls, Minn.), author. Piney Woods School. Van Cliburn International Piano Competition. Occupations:Lumbermen. Pianists. Teachers. Types of Documentation:Autograph albums. Baby books. Birthday books. Report cards. Diaries. Guest registers. Photographs. Wills. DETAILED DESCRIPTION LAURA JANE MUSSER PAPERS
Laura Jane Musser's extensive correspondence, carried on throughout her life, forms the bulk of her personal papers. Correspondents include many relatives, friends, and prominent people whom she had met while living in New York, and Hawaii, and in her travels. She also maintained close contact with many individuals, organizations, and activities in Little Falls.
In the aggregate, the correspondence reveals many facets of Musser's personality, including her generosity to family, friends, and young artists; her gradual change in philosophy relating to religion, environmental concerns, and race relations; and tensions between her and her parents. Although these tensions are veiled in the correspondence, they are revealed, to some extent, in her correspondence with friends, and are alluded to in an incomplete manuscript autobiography, which she wrote for Mu Phi Epsilon (see box 1).
Correspondence and other documentation concerning Musser's support of young artists is of particular interest. She was well known for her encouragement of Van Cliburn, whom she met while living in The International House in New York, and brought to Minnesota for many appearances. Another pianist, Laura Jane Kargul of Detroit, daughter of Bernadine Zak, formerly of Little Falls, played for many musical ensembles in Detroit, graduated from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, and attended the National Music Camp at Interlochen, Michigan, all with some financial support from Laura Jane Musser. The correspondence with Kargul traces her educational experiences, and her performances in Europe and the United States with chamber and other small musical organizations. Another major correspondent was pianist Judith Savage Ulug, daughter of Everett and Alice Savage and a fellow Little Falls resident. Her letters describe Ulug's marriage to a Turkish businessman, her career teaching music at the University of Istanbul, and her performances throughout Europe with music groups, as well as giving interesting insights on life in Turkey. Golda Rosoff, a young Minneapolis pianist, became a close friend of Laura Jane. Musser visited Rosoff's North Minneapolis home many times, and became acquainted with her parents. Through this friendship Musser became more aware of Jewish life and religion and aspects of religious prejudice. She maintained her friendship with the Rosoffs after the death of Golda in 1936.
Her papers also reveal Musser's interests in many environmental and public service groups, among them Common Cause, Environmental Action, the Calypso Society, and the American Civil Liberties Union. She also maintained close contacts with individuals and organizations in Little Falls, including schools; a number of Catholic institutions, including St. Gabriel's Hospital and St. Francis Convent; the police and fire departments, including her donations to purchase equipment; and, in general, entering into the life and activities of Little Falls.
Background Materials Biographical Information
RESTRICTED
Background and biographical information on Laura Jane and her family includes family information, diplomas and other family documents, her reminiscences of people and events, and copies of her reminiscences as published in the Morrison County Record, 1982-1988. A folder containing biographical sketches and obituaries of a number of prominent individuals represented in the collection is also included.
305.F.15.1B 1 Biographical, Including Obituaries, and Family Information, 1950s, 1962-1991.
Digital version
Diplomas, Certificates, and Citations, 1961-1987.
See also Box 29.
Digital version
Reminiscences and Recollections: General File.
Digital version
Notes on Interesting People.
Digital version
Reminiscences published in the Morrison County Record and drafts of writings, 1982-1988.
Digital version
Excerpts from Published Biographical Sketches and Obituaries of Prominent Individuals Represented in the Collection.
Digital version
Laura Jane Musser Correspondence Files
RESTRICTED
There are very few letters for the years 1922-1930. From 1931 to 1989, each year's correspondence is organized into the following groups: Correspondence with immediate family (i.e. between Laura Jane, her parents, and her sister Mary, and later, Mary's husband Roger King, and their daughter Sarah); correspondence with other relatives especially her cousins, Margaret E. Taylor in Massachusetts, James M. Taylor in Hawaii, Sally T. Avrit in Alaska, the Otis L. Walker Family of Colorado, Thaddeus Walker in Wyoming, and Guilford and Lyal Dudley in Kansas); and other correspondence. The latter group is arranged so that correspondence with prominent individuals and letters of particular interest are in the first folders. Letters from Alice Musser Davidson are filed with that from "other relatives."
Some correspondents of interest in the collection include the following:
Adelaide Martin, a teacher and missionary in India and Burma. Letters include information on financial problems of the school, refugees, and other World War II matters, 1940-1942.
Lydia Lightfoot and her daughter Myra L. Wynne of North Wales. Their letters describe schools and life in Wales, where Myra and her husband were teachers, 1980-1989.
Edna and Hilda McCoy, teachers at Rust College, Holly Springs, Arkansas. Musser's friendship with these two women broadened her viewpoints toward African Americans and increased her support of interracial organizations, 1941-1989.
305.F.15.1B 1 General Correspondence, 1922-1930. 4 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
1931: Parents and Sister Mary.
Digital version
Other Correspondents. 2 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
1932: Parents.
Digital version
Relatives.
Digital version
Golda Rosoff.
Digital version
Other Correspondents. 2 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
1933: Parents and Sister Mary. 2 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Relatives: Margaret E. and James M. Taylor.
Digital version
Golda Rosoff.
Digital version
Other Correspondents. 3 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
1934: Parents. 2 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
305.F.15.2F 2 Parents.
Digital version
Relatives 2 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Relatives: Margaret E. Taylor.
Digital version
Golda Rosoff.
Digital version
Other Correspondents. 4 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
1935: Parents and Mary Musser. 4 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
Laura Jane to her Parents.
Digital version
Other correspondents.
Digital version
Relatives. 2 folders.
Including Margaret E. Taylor and Thaddeus Walker.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Golda Rosoff.
Digital version
Other Correspondents. 3 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
1936: Parents and Mary Musser.
Digital version
Between Laura Jane and her Parents.
Digital version
143.G.12.9B 3 Between Laura Jane and her Parents. 3 folders.
OPEN FOR USE.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Relatives: Margaret E. Taylor and Walker Family. 2 folders.
OPEN FOR USE.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Golda Rosoff.
OPEN FOR USE.
Digital version
Rosoff died in 1936.
Other Correspondents. 3 folders.
OPEN FOR USE.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
1937: Sister Mary and Parents. 3 folders.
OPEN FOR USE.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Relatives.
OPEN FOR USE.
Digital version
Other Correspondents. 4 folders.
OPEN FOR USE.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
1938: Sister Mary and Parents. 3 folders.
OPEN FOR USE.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Relatives: Margaret E. Taylor and Walker Family. 2 folders.
OPEN FOR USE.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Other Correspondents. 4 folders.
OPEN FOR USE.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
1939: Sister Mary and Roger King and Parents. 4 folders.
OPEN FOR USE.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
Laura Jane to her Mother.
OPEN FOR USE.
Digital version
143.G.12.10F 4 Relatives: Margaret E. Taylor and Walker Family. 3 folders.
OPEN FOR USE.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Other Correspondents. 4 folders.
OPEN FOR USE.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
1940: Sister Mary and Roger King and Parents. 4 folders.
OPEN FOR USE.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
Relatives: Margaret E. Taylor.
OPEN FOR USE.
Digital version
Other Correspondents. 2 folders.
OPEN FOR USE.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Between Laura Jane and her parents.
OPEN FOR USE.
Digital version
Other Correspondents. 9 folders.
OPEN FOR USE.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
Folder 5
Folder 6
Folder 7
Folder 8
Folder 9
143.G.13.1B 5 1941: Mary and Roger King and Parents. 5 folders.
OPEN FOR USE.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
Folder 5
Relatives: Margaret E. Taylor and Others.
OPEN FOR USE.
Digital version
Relatives: Maxine Y. Taylor and Others.
OPEN FOR USE.
Digital version
Other Correspondents. 9 folders.
OPEN FOR USE.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
Folder 5
Folder 6
Folder 7
Folder 8
Folder 9
1942: Sister Mary and Roger King and Parents. 4 folders.
OPEN FOR USE.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
Relatives: Margaret E. Taylor and Others.
OPEN FOR USE.
Digital version
Other Correspondents. 6 folders.
OPEN FOR USE.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
Folder 5
Folder 6
Including Vittorio Giannini.
1943: Mother and Father. 3 folders.
OPEN FOR USE.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
305.F.15.3B 6 Mother and Father and Sister Mary and Roger King. 2 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Relatives.
Including Margaret E. Taylor.
Digital version
Other Correspondents. 4 folders.
Including Vittorio Giannini.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
Folder 5
1944: Parents and Mary and Roger King. 5 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
Folder 5
Relatives: Margaret E. Taylor, and Others. 3 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Other Correspondents. 7 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
Folder 5
Folder 6
Folder 7
1945: Parents and Sister, Mary Musser King. 4 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
Relatives. 2 folders.
Including Margaret E. Taylor, King family, and Walker family.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Other Correspondents. 5 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
Folder 5
305.F.15.4F 7 1946: Parents and Mary Musser King. 4 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
Relatives: Helen King, Margaret E. Taylor, Laura Atkins. 2 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Other Correspondents. 7 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
Folder 5
Folder 6
Folder 7
1947: Parents and Mary Musser King. 4 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
Relatives.
Including Margaret E. Taylor and Laura Atkins.
Digital version
Other Correspondents. 7 folders.
Including Anne Brown and Hilda McCoy.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
Folder 5
Folder 6
Folder 7
1948: Parents and Mary Musser King. 5 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
Folder 5
Relatives: Alice Davidson, Guilford Dudley, Margaret E. Taylor, Laura Atkins and Others. 3 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Other Correspondents: Vittorio Giannini, Barbara Elfenbein, Thelma Votipka, Hilda McCoy, and Anne Brown.
Digital version
305.F.15.5B 8 Other Correspondents. 5 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
Folder 5
1949: Parents and Mary Musser King. 5 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
Folder 5
Relatives: Guilford Dudley, Charles Huttig, Margaret E. Taylor, Laura Atkins, and Alice Davidson. 2 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Other Correspondents. 3 folders.
Including Vittorio Giannini, Barbara Elfenbein, Thelma Votipka, Vincent Sheean, and Blanche Thebom.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
1950: Undated, 1950s. 2 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Parents and Sister Mary King. 3 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Relatives. 2 folders.
Including Guilford Dudley, Laura Atkins, Margaret E. Taylor, and Alice Davidson.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Other Correspondents. 8 folders.
Including Thelma Votipka, Hilda McCoy, Ruth Kobart, and Sadie Kohn.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
Folder 5
Folder 6
Folder 7
Folder 8
305.F.15.6F 9 1951: Parents and Mary Musser King. 3 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Relatives: Margaret E. Taylor, Alice Davidson, Laura Atkins.
Digital version
Other Correspondents. 5 folders.
Including Sophie Kohn, Thelma Votipka, and Reinhold Niebuhr.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
Folder 5
1952: Parents. 2 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Relatives: Margaret Huttig, Margaret E. Taylor, and Laura Atkins.
Digital version
Other Correspondents, including Sadie Kohn, Fritz Kreisler. 2 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
1953:
Four letters from Father, one from Margaret E. Taylor, three from Ruth Kobart, and from others relating to the death of Sarah Walker Musser.
Digital version
1954:
Two letters between Laura and Father and letters from friends.
Digital version
1955: Between Laura and her Father.
Digital version
Relatives: Margaret E. Taylor, Laura Atkins, and members of the Davidson family.
Digital version
Other Correspondents. 4 folders.
Including Thelma Votipka and Ruth Kobart.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
1956: Between Laura and her Father and Mary M. King.
Digital version
Relatives: Davidson Family, Margaret E. Taylor, and John M. Musser.
Digital version
Other Correspondents. 4 folders.
Including Thelma Votipka.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
1957: From Father, Davidson Family and Laura Atkins.
Digital version
Other Correspondents. 2 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
1958: Letters on Death of Father.
Digital version
Relatives: Roger and Sarah King, Helen King, Guilford Dudley, and Margaret E. Taylor.
Digital version
Others.
Including Sadis Kohn, Ruth Kobart and Thelma Votipka.
Digital version
305.F.15.7B 10 Other Correspondents. 5 folders.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
Folder 5
1959: Family: Richard Drew Musser memorials, Mary Musser King, and Sarah King.
Digital version
Relatives: Sally T. Avrit, Davidson Family, Huntington Taylor, Huttig Family, and Margaret E. Taylor.
Digital version
Other Correspondents. 12 folders.
Including Thelma Votipka and references to Van Cliburn concerts.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
Folder 5
Folder 6
Folder 7
Folder 8
Folder 9
Folder 10
Folder 11
Folder 12
1960: Family and Relatives: Mary M. King, Davidson and Huttig Families, Margaret E. Taylor, and Lyal Dudley.
Digital version
Other Correspondents. 4 folders.
Including Thelma Votipka.
Folder 1
Folder 2
Folder 3
Folder 4
143.G.13.7B 11 Other Correspondents. 5 folders. 1961: Relatives: Sally T. Avrit, Davidson and Huttig families, John M. Musser Family, Lyal Dudley, Huntington and Margaret E. Taylor. Other Correspondents. 8 folders.
Including Thelma Votipka and the Alaska Festival of Music.
1962: Relatives: Sally T. Avrit, Davidson Family, Lyal Dudley, Roger King, Huntington and Margaret E. Taylor, and Betty Musser. 2 folders. Other Correspondents. 8 folders.
Including Thelma Votipka, the Alaska Festival of Music, and References to Van Cliburn Concerts.
143.G.13.8F 12 Other Correspondents. 2 folders. 1963: Relatives: Davidson and Walker families, Lyal Dudley, Huntington Taylor, Margaret E. Taylor, and Sally T. Avrit. Other Correspondents. 6 folders.
Including Thelma Votipka, and Paul Hume (Washington Post music critic).
1964: Relatives: Huttig Family, Margaret Musser, Huntington and Margaret E. Taylor, and Sally T. Avrit. Other Correspondents. 5 folders.
Including Thelma Votipka and Abbott Lee Ruskin, St. Paul pianist.
143.G.13.8F 12 1965: Relatives: Huntington and Margaret E. Taylor, Sally T. Avrit, Lyal Dudley, John M. Musser, and Laura Atkins.
Laura Atkins died in 1965.
Other Correspondents. 3 folders.
Including Thelma Votipka, Rudolph Ganz, Vittorio Giannini, and Abbott Lee Ruskin.
143.G.13.9B 13 Other Correspondents. 4 folders. 1966: Relatives: Sally T. Avrit, John M. Musser Family, Margaret and Huntington Taylor, and Walker family. Other Correspondents. 5 folders.
Including Thelma Votipka.
1967: Relatives: Margaret E. Taylor, John M. Musser Family, a Walker Family. Other Correspondents. 4 folders.
Including Thelma Votipka and pianist Lili Kraus.
1968: Relatives: Sally T. Avrit, Margaret E. Taylor, John M. Musser Family, Lyal Dudley, and Walker Family. Other Correspondents. 5 folders. 143.G.13.10F 14 1969: Relatives: Davidson Family, Sarah King, Margaret E. Taylor, John K. Musser and Walker Families. Other Correspondents. 6 folders.
Including Thelma Votipka and Judith Savage Ulug.
1970: Relatives: Sally T. Avrit, Margaret E. Taylor, Betty Musser, and Walker family. Other Correspondents. 8 folders.
Including Thelma Votipka, Judith S. Ulug, and Carl Rowan.
1971: Relatives: Davidson Family, Sally T. Avrit, and Margaret E. Taylor. Other Correspondents.
Including Thelma Votipka and Judith S. Ulug.
143.G.14.1B 15 Other Correspondents. 3 folders. 1972: Relatives: Sally T. Avrit, Margaret E. Taylor, Huttig and Walker Families. Other Correspondents. 6 folders.
Including Thelma Votipka (d. 1972) and Mrs. Rudolph Ganz.
1973: Relatives: Sally T. Avrit, Margaret E. Taylor, and Huttig and Walker families. Other Correspondents. 6 folders. 1974: Relatives: Sally T. Avrit, Lyal Dudley, Margaret E. Taylor, and Huttig and Walker families. Other Correspondents. 2 folders.
Including Judith. Ulug and Mildred Dilling, Harpist.
143.G.14.2F 16 Other Correspondents. 4 folders. 1975: Relatives: Sally T. Avrit, Margaret E. Taylor, and Huttig and Walker Families. Other Correspondents. 6 folders.
Including Robert Hutchins.
1976: Relatives: Sally T. Avrit, Margaret E. Taylor, John M. Musser, and Walker Families. Other Correspondents. 8 folders.
Including Judith Ulug.
143.G.14.3B 17 1977: Relatives: Sally T. Avrit, Margaret E. Taylor, Huntington Walker, and Other Walker Family Members. 2 folders. Other Correspondents. 8 folders. 1978: Relatives: Sally T. Avrit, Margaret E. Taylor, and Walker Family.
Sally T. Avrit died in 1978.
Other Correspondents. 9 folders.
Including Judith Ulug.
1979: Relatives: Margaret E. Taylor and Walker Family. Other Correspondents. 3 folders.
Including Judith Ulug and Lydia and Myra Lightfoot of North Wales.
143.G.14.4F 18 Other Correspondents. 5 folders. 1980: Relatives: Betty Musser, Margaret E. Taylor, andHuttig and Walker Families. 2 folders. Other Correspondents. 9 folders.
Including Judith Ulug and Lightfoot-Wynne families of North Wales.
1981: Relatives: John M. Musser, Margaret E. Taylor, and Walker Family. Other Correspondents. 4 folders.
Including Judith Ulug and Lightfoot-Wynne Family.
143.G.14.5B 19 Other Correspondents. 4 folders. 1982: Relatives: Margaret E. Taylor and Huttig and Walker families.
Margaret E. Taylor died in 1982.
Other Correspondents. 8 folders.
Including Lightfoot-Wynne Family, Meridel LeSueur, and Judith Ulug.
1983: Relatives: John M. Musser, and Huttig and Walker Families. Other Correspondents. 6 folders.
Including Lightfoot-Wynne Family and Judith Ulug.
1984: Relatives: Walker Family. Other Correspondents. 3 folders.
Including Judith Ulug and Jacques Cousteau.
143.G.14.6F 20 Other Correspondents. 5 folders. 1985: Relatives: John M. Musser and Walker Family. Other Correspondents. 6 folders.
Including Lightfoot-Wynne Family, and Predag Muzijevic, Yugoslav pianist.
1986: Relatives: John M. Musser and Walker Families. Other Correspondents. 9 folders.
Including Predag Muzijevic, Laura Jane Kargul and Lightfoot-Wynne Family.
143.G.14.7B 21 1987: Relatives: Walker Family. Other Correspondents. 11 folders.
Including Muzijevic, Laura Jane Kargul, Lightfoot-Wynne Family, and author LaVeryle Spencer.
1988: Relatives: John M. Musser and Walker Family. Other Correspondents. 6 folders.
Including Jacques Cousteau, Laura Jane Kargul, Meridel LeSueur, Judith Ulug, and Lightfoot-Wynne Family.
1989: Relatives: Walker Family. Other Correspondents. 3 folders.
Including Jacques Cousteau, Laura Jane Kargul, Meridel LeSueur, Judith Ulug, and Lightfoot-Wynne Family.
143.G.14.8F 22 Other Correspondents. 3 folders. Miscellaneous Personal Papers 143.G.14.8F 22 Correspondence from Laura Jane Musser to Newspapers, Organizations, and Similar Groups, 1963-1989. 2 folders. Five-Year Diary, 1935-1939. 1 volume. Journal of Trip from Little Falls to Stockton, California and Back, Sept.-Oct., 1958.
Includes 2 notebooks.
Journal of European Trip, Aug.-Nov. 1952. School Papers: Intelligence Testing Information, Mary Musser (1932) and Laura Jane (1970). Report Cards, 1928-1940. Essays, Reports, and Similar Papers, Central High School, Little Falls, 1930s. 2 folders. The Girl Graduate Memory Book, High School, 1933. 1 volume. Essays, Reports, and Examination Books, College, 1935-1937. 2 folders. 143.G.15.3B 27 Financial Records: Income Tax Returns, 1958-1988. 4 folders.
(Incomplete)
Yearly Statements of Account, First National Bank, Minneapolis, 1947, 1955/56-1969/60. 2 folders. 143.G.15.4F 28 Yearly Statements of Account, 1960/61-1988/89. 10 folders. Camp Merriwyn, Lake Plantagenet, Hubbard County, Newsletters, 1927-1932. Literary Compositions by Laura Jane, undated. Script: "Hansel and Cretel," a play by Laura Jane presented in Little Falls, undated. Address Books, undated and 1952.
Includes 1 volume and 1 unbound item.
Christmas Card Lists, 1945-1969. Notebook containing lists of books, and music lessons given by Laura Jane, undated and 1955-1958. Autograph Books, 1923, 1928-l933, 1940-1941. 5 volumes.
Loose in box.
142.F.10.6F 29 Scrapbooks: Marian Anderson, Dorothy Maynor, Philippa Duke Schuyler, [ca.1939]-[ca.1940]. Marian Anderson and Dorothy Maynor, circa[1940]-[ca.1941].
First page contains an autographed program of Marian Anderson.
Marian Anderson, [ca.1940]-[ca.1944]. 2 volumes. Materials Found Loose in Scrapbooks: Marian Anderson autographed photograph and program. Programs and other printed Matter, 1940-1952. 2 folders. Newspaper Clippings, Marian Anderson, undated and 1943-1986. 2 folders. Laura Jane's Appointments to the Minnesota American Revolution Bicentennial Commission, March 7, 1974 and July 28, 1975. 2 items. Papers Arranged By Individual
Papers arranged by individual, 1938-1989, include newspaper clippings, programs, correspondence, and similar materials. Folders of particular interest include: Marian Anderson, James DePreist, Van Cliburn, Charles A. Lindbergh Family, Philippa Duke Schuyler and her parents, the James M. Taylor family of Hawaii, and Minnesota artist Charles Kapsner.
143.G.14.8F 22 Anderson, Marian and Family, 1941-1989. 3 folders.
(See also box 29 for scrapbooks)
Brink, Carol Ryrie, 1970-1982. 2 folders. Cliburn,Van, 1951-1963. 8 folders. 143.G.14.9B 23 Cliburn, Van, 1964-1986. 2 folders. DePreist, James Anderson, 1965-1987. 2 folders. Dickerson, Charles, 1982-1987. Kapsner, Charles Gilbert, 1978-1989. 9 folders. Kohler, Drew, Alice and Family, 1975-1989. 4 folders. Kraus, Stephanie, 1980-1988. 2 folders. Lindbergh, Charles A. and Family: Lindbergh Historic Site, Lindbergh Foundation: Celebrations, Correspondence, Printed Materials, and Newspaper Clippings from Hawaiian Papers, 1953-1989. 8 folders. Tripp, Reeve Lindbergh Correspondence, 1986,1989. 2 folders. Other Lindbergh Family Correspondence, 1980-1987. Russell, Anna, Concert, 1959-1960. 143.G.14.10F 24 Schuyler, Philippa Duke and Family: Biographical Information. Correspondence, 1939-1964. 7 folders. Miscellaneous Papers, 1938-1989. Photographs, 1930s, 1940. Sod, Wesley, 1983-1987. Taylor, James M. and Family, 1957-1989. 9 folders.
Including LeJardine Academy, Hawaii.
Subject Files
Subject Files detail Laura Jane's many interests and activities. Topics of particular interest include the Minnesota Historical Society (particularly the Lindbergh Historic Site), the Minnesota Orchestra, the Piney Woods Country Life School (Piney Woods, Mississippi); Mu Phi Epsilon National Music Sorority; the University of Minnesota, particularly the Kerlan Library of children's books; Contemporary Dance Playhouse (Loyce Houlton) and Ballet Borealis (Andahazys); the preservation of the Little Falls Depot, designed by Cass Gilbert; the donation of Musser land to the Mississippi Flats Recreation Facility (Little Falls, Minnesota); her support of African American colleges, universities, and organizations; and Native American activities, including her support of a music therapy project at Bemidji State College.
143.G.14.10F 24 African Americans: Colleges and Universities, 1947-1980. Organizations and Activities, 1941-1981 American Association of University Women, 1973-1987. American Friends Service Committee, 1964-1986. Committee of 100, 1943-1951. Contemporary Dance Playhouse (Loyce Houlton), 1960-1995. 2 folders. The Gilombardo Music School, Minneapolis, 1958-1963. International House, New York City, 1940, 1948, 1984. Julliard School of Music, New York City, 1941-1964. Lemonade Opera, New York City, 1948-1953. Little Falls Depot Preservation, 1933-1989. Metropolitan Opera in Minnesota, 1955-1983. 2 folders. Minnesota Ballet Borealis Foundation (Lorand Andahazy), 1960-1974. 2 folders. 143.G.15.1B 25 Minnesota Historical Society, 1959-1989. 2 folders.
Including the MHS Women's Organization.
Minnesota Orchestra, 1947, 1980. 4 folders.
Including Minneapolis Symphony Orchestra, and the Women's Organization.
Minnesota Women's History Interpretive Center, 1985-1988. Mississippi Flats Park and Recreation Facility, Little Falls, 1984-1985. Monticello College, Godfrey, Illinois, and Hartridge School, Plainfield, New Jersey, 1985-1965. Mu Phi Epsilon, Richfield Chapter, National Music Sorority, 1960-1987. 4 folders. Native Americans: Correspondence and Miscellany, 1950-1989. 3 folders. Highwater, Jamake (Primal Mind Foundation), 1980-1986. Indian Music Therapy Study Project, Bemidji State College, 1974-1976. Kanassetega, Jay, 1988-1989. The Piney Woods Country Life School, Piney Woods, Mississippi, 1939-1972. Political Correspondence, 1964-1989. 10 folders. 143.G.15.2F 26 Race Relations Organizations, 1941-1950. Refugees and Displaced Persons, 1944-1950. Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, 1962-1976. 2 folders. Schubert Club, St. Paul, 1964-1985. United Nations, 1946-1988. University of Minnesota, 1950-1989. 7 folders. World Government Organizations, 1941-1989. Oz Materials
Laura Jane was actively interested in the Wizard of Oz books. She maintained correspondence with a number of related individuals and organizations, including Matilda Jewell Gage, a niece of L. Frank Baum; members of Baum's family; actress Margaret Hamilton; and the International Wizard of Oz Club. The Gage materials are of special interest, as there is much information on Matilda Joselyn Gage, an aunt of Matilda Jewell, who was an early nineteenth century feminist. Information on her will be found in the Sally Roesch Wagner correspondence files.
143.G.15.2F 26 By Individual: Baum, L. Frank and Family, 1914-1987. Gage, Matilda Jewell, 1972-1986. 4 folders.
(See also: Wagner, Sally Roesch)
Hamilton, Margaret, 1932-1989. Hearn, Michael Patrick, 1982-1987. 4 folders. Maxine, David (Pumperdink Press), 1981-1985. Wagner, Sally Roesch. Correspondence, 1979-1989. 4 folders. 143.G.15.3B 27 Wagner, Sally Roesch. Newspaper Clippings, Programs, Magazine Articles and Similar Materials, 1979-1989. 3 folders. By Organization: Beyond the Rainbow, Judy Garland and Wizard of Oz Collectibles, St. Louis, 1983-1989. International Wizard of Oz Club: Correspondence and Miscellany, including Fred M. Meyer Materials, 1971-1989. 2 folders. Membership Directories, 1972-1988.
(Incomplete)
The Baum Bugle, 1967-1989.
(Incomplete)
The Best of the Baum Bugle, 1957, 1961 and The First Five Years of the Baum Bugle, 1984. Other Oz Materials: 143.G.15.3B 27 Manuscripts of Stories and Plays by Laura Jane Musser: "The Romance of the Silver Shoes," A novelette, 1972. "The Philosophy of L. Frank Baum as Shown in His Story, the Wizard of Oz," undated. "The Lost Countries of Oz," undated. Other Oz Manuscripts: "The Woozy of Oz," by Russell Andy Henry, undated. "The Wizard of Oz," Script of a play, no author, undated. Selected newspaper clippings, 1970-1988. Miscellaneous catalogs and related materials, 1984-1989. Extracts from publications, 1962-1973. Books, 1915, 1976. 142.F.10.6F 29 Poster: Wizard of Oz Day. 40th Anniversary of Publication, University of Southern California College of Continuing Education, May 12, 1979.
Autographs of Margaret Hamilton, Meredith Willson, and others.
Sarah Walker Musser Papers Miscellaneous Personal Papers 143.G.15.5B 30 Biographical and family information, obituaries, and funeral service, 1903-1953. Wills, 1933-1953. Estate Records: Miscellaneous, 1938-1957. 2 folders. Mary Musser King and Laura Jane Musser. Trust accounts, 1949-1956. Walker, Margaret E. Otis (Mother) Correspondence: Investments, 1907-1920. 4 folders. Lydia M. Otis Barber (Aunt) Estate Records, 1932-1935.
Includes her marriage announcement 1898.
Meditations, by Jessie Burrall Eubank, 1934. Astrological readings of members of the Musser-Walker families, by Elinor Billig, including correspondence, 1923-1944. 4 folders. Minnesota State Board of Education Correspondence, 1920-1934. 2 folders. Organizations and Clubs, 1918-1952.
Arranged alphabetically.
Speech Files and Other Activities, 1930-1938. Miscellany, including Newspaper Clippings, Certificates, Printed Materials, 1893-1952.
Includes Sarah Walker's Report Cards (1893-1896).
142.F.10.6F 29 Certificates, Programs, Diplomas, Appointments, and Similar Materials, 1897-1929. Voluntary Permanent Subscriber to the Shriners' Hospital for Crippled Children, Proclamation, undated. Musical Programs, Germany, 1898. 3 items.
Collected While Sarah Walker lived in Germany.
Visa from American Embassy in Berlin to Sarah Walker, January 10, 1898. Diploma, March 25, 1899.
From Berlin school for proficiency in German language and literature.
Minnesota State Board of Education: Appointments, April 24, 1919; January 24, 1924; and August 12, 1929. 3 items. Diaries
Sarah Walker Musser kept extensive diaries, including detailed description of her life in Germany (1898-1899), and her trips to Alaska (1929), West Indies (1930), California, Texas, and Mexico (1936, 1938), and to Europe (1937). There is also a complete set of five-year diaries (1920-1952) containing brief notes on her activities.
143.G.15.5B 30 Pocket Diaries, 1903-1919. 23 volumes. 143.G.15.6F 31 Berlin, 1897-1899. 1 volume. General, 1908. 1 volume. Trip to the West Coast, 1911. 1 volume. Diary Fragment, 1921. Diary-Log Book, West Indies, 1930. 1 volume. California, Texas and Mexican Trip, 1936, 1938. 1 volume. Europe, with Photographs, 1937. 1 volume. Diary Fragment, 1951. Five-Year Diaries: 1920/24 - 1950/52. 7 volumes. Other Volumes 143.G.15.6F 31 Memo Book, 1906-1943. 1 volume. Financial Record Book, Berlin, 1898-1899. 1 volume. Financial Journal, 1908-1957. 1 volume. Meetings, and Luncheon Lists Sheets, 1914. Minute Book and Membership Lists, Fish Club, 1942-1948. Includes 1 volume. 143.G.15.7B 32 Berlin: Lecture Notes, 1897. 1 volume. Notebooks, 1897-[1899?]. 4 volumes. Notebook, Lists of Names, 1899. 1 volume. Birthday Books: [ca.1800s]-[ca.1900s].
Photocopy.
1946. 1 volume. Baby Books: Laura Jane, 1916. 2 volumes. Mary Musser Diary [kept by Sarah Musser], 1915-1921.
Photocopy.
Notes on Music and Musicians, undated. 1 volume. Welch Weekly Plan Book, Margaret Sheridan, Central High School, Little Falls, 1922, 1923. 2 volumes. Correspondence Files
The early correspondence (1882-1903) details Sarah's life in New York State and in Berlin, Germany. There are letters from family and friends, particularly during her stay in Berlin. Also included are Sarah's letters to her aunt and uncle, Albert and Sarah Dwelle, Northwood, Iowa. They contain many interesting details of her activities in Berlin and her trips to other parts of Germany, and friends and acquaintances she met there.
After her marriage to Richard Musser, the correspondence continues with family and friends, detailing family life, births, deaths, marriages, social activities, and similar details. Many of the letter writers are also represented in Laura Jane's correspondence files.
143.G.15.7B 32 undated and 1882-1899; undated [between 1900 and 1919]. 18 folders. 143.G.15.8F 33 1900-1919. 27 folders. 143.G.15.9B 34 1920-1943. 27 folders. 143.G.15.10F 35 1944-1953. 16 folders. Richard Drew Musser Papers Musser Family Materials
See Box 44 (Musser Family Papers) for family photographs.
143.G.15.10F 35 Biographical Information, Obituaries, Funeral Service of Richard Drew Musser, 1896-1961. Musser Family Histories and Information on Musser Companies, 1897-1949. Transcript of Interview (1953) and Obituaries (1956): Clifton R. Musser. Biographies (undated) and Obituaries, and Memorials (1910): Peter Musser. Biographies (undated), Obituaries, and Memorial-volume (1919), Musser Library, Muscatine (1951): Peter Miller Musser. Other Musser Family Members: Biographies and Obituaries, 1932-1975. Correspondence: Peter and John Musser, 1842-1852. 142.F.10.6F 29 Detailed Musser Family Genealogical Chart, 1956.
Depicts family lineage beginning in 1773.
Legal, Financial and Real Estate Records 143.G.15.10F 35 Wills, 1942-1958. Estate Records: Miscellaneous Financial Records, 1958-1968. Investments, 1953-1957. Financial Records: Income Taxes: Correspondence and Returns, 1950-1958. Laura Jane Musser Trust, 1937-1960. Investments: First National Bank of Minneapolis, 1938-1957. First National Bank of Minneapolis, 1957-1959. 143.G.16.1B 36 First National Bank of Little Falls, 1956-1958. Other Banks, Insurance and Related Companies, 1929-1960. Summary Lists of Dividends, Securities and Related Items, 1950-1968. Yearly Statements of Account, First National Bank Minneapolis, 1954-1958. 2 folders. Dividends, Laura Musser Atkins, 1953-1954. Personal Property Lists and Miscellaneous Financial Records, 1901-1922. 143.G.16.2F 37 Pocket Memo Books, 1893/1894-1926. 12 volumes. Lumber Stock Book, 1895. Sales, Accounts, and Deposits, 1892-1896. Account Books, 1891/1892, 1897. 2 volumes. Financial Notebook, Records, [ca.1892]-1894. Real Estate Records: Land Contracts, 1912. 142.F.10.6F 29 Township Plats Showing location of Musser Lands: Plat of Townships 14-17, Ranges 1-3, Oregon: Property Owned by Wentworth and Drew Timber Company. Plats of Townships 14-17, Ranges 1-4, Oregon, Drew Timber Company, 1910 and 1923. 2 items. Crossbern, Nova Scotia: Lands owned by J. N. Cross, January 3, 1910. Township 28, Ranges 14-15; Townships 29, Ranges 14, 15; Township 30, Range 14; Unidentified, Showing Location of Timber Lands, undated. 5 items. Wilson, Wisconsin Plat, Lands Available, by Wilson-Johnson, undated. Miscellaneous Personal Papers 143.G.16.1B 36 Partial Inventory of his Library, undated. Little Falls Country Club, 1925-1943. Contributions (financial), 1909-1958. University of Iowa, 1884-1958.
Includes Beta Theta Phi Fraternity Materials and Biology Notebook. Includes 1 volume.
Invitations, 1883-1958. 4 folders. Certificates, Citations, Membership Cards and Related Materials, 1892-1957. 142.F.10.6F 29 Certificates, Passports, and Related Materials, 1887-1942: Floor Plan, First Floor, pencil sketch, unidentified, but may be of Musser Home, undated. First Sergeant, Company C and Captain, University Battalion, Iowa National Guard, appointments, May 2 and October 20, 1887. 2 items. Irving Institute, University of Iowa, Honorary Membership, June 13, 1888. Osman Shrine Temple, St. Paul, Admission, January 12, 1892. Passport, August 19, 1897. The Quarter Century Club of the Northwest Paper Company. Membership Certificate, [ca.1923]. Committee from Minnesota to Welcome Charles A. Lindbergh on his Return from Paris. Membership Certificate, June 3, 1927. Zurah Temple Shrine, Minneapolis. Life Membership, March 9, 1934. Ninth Federal Reserve District, Victory Fund Committee. Chart of Names, [1942?]. Photograph, unidentified, but may be Richard D. Musser at different ages. One photo of him as member of the University Battalion, Iowa National Guard, undated. 143.G.16.1B 36 Printed Materials, 1898-1952. Pine Tree Lumber Company/Pine Tree Manufacturing Company
The Pine Tree Lumber Company was organized in Little Falls in 1891 by Musser and Charles A. Weyerhaeuser. In 1909 the name was changed to Pine Tree Manufacturing Company. At various times, the board included representatives from the Weyerhaeuser, Laird, Norton, Denkmann, and other lumber interests. Companies associated with the firm included Potlatch Lumber Company, Northwest Paper Company, Northland Pine Company, Drew Timber Company, Payette Lumber and Manufacturing Company, Immigration Land Company, and O.L. Walker Lumber Company (Glenrock, Wyo.). Banks included Lumbermen's National Bank (Tacoma, Wash.), Muscatine Bank and Trust, and New England National Bank.
This small set of corporate records includes correspondence files; a complete set of pocket diaries, 1893-1926; account books and other financial volumes, 1891-1897; a sales book, 1892-1896; and a land contract book, 1912.
The correspondence files, 1891-1961, contain inventory sheets, statements, timber statistics, trial balances, stock sheets, and routine correspondence relating to the business.
143.G.16.1B 36 Corporate Records, 1889-1957. Correspondence and Related Materials, 1891-1921. 12 folders. 143.G.16.2F 37 Correspondence and Related Materials, 1922-1961. 4 folders. Subject Files: The Greenport Basin and Construction Company (Brighams), 1909-1911. Immigration Land Company: Price Lists by County, undated and 1913. Timberlands Lists by County, undated. 3 folders. Lumbermen's National Bank, Tacoma, 1901-1905. Merrill and Morrison-Merrill Companies: Minutes, 1948. Muscatine Bank and Trust Company: Miscellany, 1952-1955. New England National Bank: Liquidation, 1914-1938. A Symposium of Reserve Supply Company, 1956[?]. Roach and Musser Company, 1954-1957. Searle Lands, 1898-1901. O.L. Walker Lumber Company, Glenrock, Wyoming, 1909-1922. Other Lumber Companies, undated and 1903-1905. Printed Materials, 1891-1945. Correspondence Files
Richard Drew Musser's personal correspondence (1842-1958) details his early life in Muscatine, Iowa, and his schooling at the University of Iowa (1884-1888). At the beginning of the correspondence, there is a small group of letters (1842-1852) between Richard and John Musser. The brothers' correspondence relates to their tanning business in Pennsylvania and some personal matters. Most of the correspondence consists of letters between Musser, his parents, and his sister Annie and Laura containing family information and details on the Musser Lumber Company. After 1891, when Musser moved to Little Falls, the correspondence contains more information relating to the lumber business. This correspondence continues until 1920. After 1920 the correspondence relates to family matters, communications with friends, and and with associates. Throughout the correspondence, Richard is referred to as "Drew," probably to distinguish him from his uncle Richard (1819-1896).
143.G.16.2F 37 1842-1852, 1880-1884. 3 folders. 143.G.16.3B 38 1885-1900. 29 folders. 143.G.16.4F 39 1901-1963. 26 folders. Richard and Sarah Musser Papers Alice, Laura Jane, and Mary Musser Correspondence
Extensive correspondence files between Richard, Sarah, and their daughters. These letters complement those found in Laura Jane's correspondence files. The correspondence from Alice, 1909-1958, contains more information on her than what was found in Laura Jane's papers. There are report cards, tuition forms, and other papers (1916-1918) relating to her schooling at Miss Ethel Walker's School for Girls (Lakewood, New Jersey), her marriage to Edward Clark Davidson (1921), and subsequent correspondence with Alice's children and grandchildren.
Mary Musser's correspondence (1916-1958) includes letters between Sarah and Lyn Hartridge of The Hartridge School (Plainfield, New Jersey, 1930-1934) and from Pine Manor Junior College (Wellesley, Massachusetts, 1934-1937) with information on Mary's academic progress and descriptions of student life. In 1939 Mary married Roger King and, from that date until 1955, there are many letters from him concerning his career, their children and related matters. There are also a few school evaluation reports of the children. Roger and Mary were divorced in 1955. In 1957 she married Alan Gilmore.
Laura Jane's correspondence (1916-1935) is not as extensive as that of Mary's, but it does contain letters upon her birth; her schooling at Hartridge (1935) and Monticello College (1936), and her subsequent career in New York City and her visits to Europe and Hawaii.
143.G.16.4F 39 Alice Musser Davidson and Family, 1909-1958. 5 folders. 143.G.16.5B 40 Mary Musser and Roger King Family, 1916-1958. 22 folders.
Includes Mary's Report Cards, 1922-1937.
Laura Jane Musser, 1916-1935. 5 folders. 143.G.16.6F 41 Laura Jane Musser, 1936-1957. 4 folders. Musser Household Records
This section includes an extensive collection of receipts (19051923), arranged by date and by name, from various merchants in Little Falls and elsewhere, with information on food purchases, clothing, jewelry and gifts, household items, and similar materials. Also included are tax returns for household employees; correspondence and other records relating to the house furnishings and the garden; and correspondence relating to the purchase, construction, installation, and care of the home's Aeolian organ. At the end is a complete set of the home's guest registers (1903-1942).
143.G.16.6F 41 Household Receipts: A-Z, 1905-1909. 7 folders. A-Z, 1910-1914. 7 folders. A-P, 1914-1917. 4 folders. 143.G.16.7B 42 S-Z, 1914-1917. 2 folders. A-Z, 1917-1920. 7 folders. A-Z, 1921-1923. 9 folders. Other Household Expenses and Records: Miscellaneous Receipts, 1907-1910. Employer's Quarterly Tax Returns for Household Employees, 1951-1959. Furnishings and Miscellany, 1930-1987. 3 folders. Miscellany, 1905-1923. Musser House: Garden, 1914-1926. Aeolian Organ, 1930-1964. 143.G.16.8F 43 Guest Books, 1903-1942. 6 volumes. Musser Family Papers Related Families
Obituaries, memorials, diaries, financial records of the following families: Huttig, McColm, Dwelle, Walker, and Otis. Of special interest are: "Holiday in Europe," reminiscences of Charles Musser Huttig; Thaddeus Walker's diary, 1852-1854 (photocopy), with information on his law business, family information, and social activities; and one volume (photocopy) containing Harris Foster Otis' cash book, 1854-1871, and Otis L. Walker's diary, 1897-1900.
143.G.16.8F 43 Huttig Family: "Holiday in Europe": Reminiscences by Charles Musser Huttig, 1906-1948; and Newspaper Clippings, 1949-1952. 1 folder Memorial Volume, Annie Musser Huttig, 1920. 1 volume. "The Life of Charles Henry Huttig, 1863-1913," undated biography; obituaries and newspaper clippings, 1862, 1913; and memorial address, 1913. Funeral Service and Obituary: Edwin L. McColm, 1933. Walker-Otis Families: Genealogical Information: Walker-Otis Families.
Includes notes, charts, and volume.
Miscellaneous Family Records, including newspaper clippings and obituaries, 1900-1952. Thaddeus H. Walker Diary, 1852-1854.
Photocopy.
Harris Poster Otis Cash Book, 1854-1871; and Otis Lawrence-WaIker Diary, 1897-1900.
Diary is a photocopy.
Harris Foster Otis [?], and Others: Inventory of Goods (1852) and Accounts (1863-1869). 1 volume. Dwelle Family: Correspondence, 1904-1907. 2 folders. Financial Statements, 1903-1906. Will and Estate Documents, 1901-1908.Photographs
The collection includes 121 photographs, mainly of members of the Musser family, but also including photos of the Walker, Dudley, Taylor, and Weyerhaeuser families. Many are undated and unidentified, and some are partially identified by name.
143.G.16.9B 44 Laura Jane Musser, 1950-1984. 42 photographs.
Partially identified by place and date, including views of Venice, Europe, and Hawaii, and Laura Jane Musser Appreciation Day.
Musser Family, undated and 1870s-1949. 36 photographs.
Richard Drew, Peter, Tamson, Mary, and Sarah Musser, and the Musser home. Partially identified.
Mary Musser King and Daughter, undated, 1920s-1950. 3 photographs. Musser-Weyerhaeuser Family, 1903-1914. 9 photographs.
John Musser, Sarah Maud and Carl Weyerhaeuser, travel photos, and Little Falls Paper Mill.
Walker Family, 1897-1914. 22 photographs.
German friends of Sarah Walker, Jane Walker Taylor, Mary Walker Brigham, and Thaddeus Walker. Partially identified.
Miscellaneous Photographs, undated and 1908-1950s. 18 photographs.
Unidentified and partially identified, including Dudley Family.
Negatives, undated and unidentified. 35 negatives. Businesses, Family Friends, and Miscellaneous
Obituaries, memorials, newspaper clippings, publications, and printed materials relating to families and business associates including the Weyerhaeusers, various lumber companies, and historical information on Morrison County and Muscatine, Iowa.
143.G.16.9B 44 Weyerhaeuser Family: Frederick (1834-1914): Obituaries (1914) and information about him (1949). John Philip, Jr. (ca.1901-1956). Obituaries and a photograph. Rudolph M. (1868-1946). Obituaries. Miscellaneous Materials, 1942-1985. Lumber Companies: Boise Payette Lumber Company: Payette River Tree Farm, Photo Album, undated, 1950s [?]. 1 volume. Brigham, Ernest J.: Photo Album, December 31, 1918. 1 volume.
Logging scenes.
Northwest Paper Company: Publications, 1949-1950. Potlatch Lumber Interests: Newspapers and Publications, 1911-1952. Railroads and Lumbering in California Forests, Published San Francisco, 1884. 1 volume. 143.G.16.9B 44 Weyerhaeuser Companies: Newspaper Clippings and Publications, 1920-1955. White Pine: Architectural Monographs, Vol. 4, No. 5, 1918. 2 volumes. Miscellaneous Publications and Materials, 1941-1954. Morrison County: Historical Information Manuscripts by Valentine E. Kasparek and Others, 1938-1964. Mother Mary Ignatius, Belle Plaine (Missionary Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception), Printed Booklet (undated) and Newspaper Clipping (1950). Muscatine, Iowa: Miscellaneous Materials, undated and 1909-1977. Muscatine Iowa: The Pearl City, 1913[?]. 1 volume. A Tribute to Captain Fred Welker, 1910. Through 20 Years with Skelly Oil Company, 1919-1939, by Leonard Painter. 1 volume. Leather Postcards, addressed to Edith and Mary Martin, Minneapolis, 1906. 28 cards.