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Emily Deming collection

 Collection
Identifier: Collection 149

Scope and Contents

Contains various news clippings, programs, brochures, photographs, and correspondence. The news clippings are photocopies and include articles on the theater, historical landmarks, and the Symphony. Some of the other holdings may be photocopies, but are primarily the original programs or publications collected by Deming. The programs from ballet, theater, symphony, and other musical events represent select events, and are by no means comprehensive within the broad date ranges. The brochures were produced by Heritage Hill, Welcome Home for the Blind, and First (Park) Congregational Church. The photographs depict Gerald R. Ford at the opening of Welcome Home for the Blind and an autographed picture of Selena Royle. The correspondence is with Selena Royle's sister Josephine and Gerald R. Ford. (4 signed originals are in the security file/Safe. Two signed copies of the program are still in 149-1-4. 4/3/2007)

Dates

  • 1925, 1940s-1986

Creator

Biographical / Historical

Emily Deming (ca. 1902-1998) worked as an executive housekeeper at Blodgett Hospital. She was active in the Lions Club. She was a patroness of the visual, musical, architectural, and theatrical arts. In this capacity, she was close to the local theatrical element, collecting information on Selena Royle and Spencer Tracy, who went on to success beyond Grand Rapids. Her involvement in the community led her to deal with such prominent people as former President Gerald R. Ford.

Extent

1.5 Linear Feet (Two boxes)

Language of Materials

English

Abstract

Emily Deming (ca. 1902-1998) worked as an executive housekeeper at Blodgett Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan and was a patroness of the visual, musical, architectural, and theatrical arts. This collection represents her personal collecting of materials gathered during her interactions in support of the local arts in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Included are programs from various fine arts events, New York 1925/1926 correspondence from Josephine F. Royle and Selena Royle, a scrapbook, and various other memorabilia. An autographed picture of Selena Royle, who was a famous actress of the 1920s and 1930s, is available, as well as photos of Representative Gerald R. Ford at a Welcome Home for the Blind ceremony. The memorabilia also includes brochures from First (Park) Congregational Church, the Heritage Hill Association, Welcome Home for the Blind, and Celebration on the Grand.

Immediate Source of Acquisition

Emily Deming, April 17, 1991; accession number 1991.008

Title
Finding Aid for the Emily Deming collection
Status
Completed
Author
Katie M. Visner
Date
September 1992
Description rules
Describing Archives: A Content Standard
Language of description
Undetermined
Script of description
Code for undetermined script

Repository Details

Part of the Grand Rapids History Center Repository

Contact:
Grand Rapids Public Library
111 Library Street NE
Grand Rapids Michigan 49503 USA
616-988-5497