Description
This collection contains the papers of California writer Jennie C. Davis (1851-1946), chiefly dating from 1917 to 1942 and
including
manuscripts of her work, a draft of her autobiography, and correspondence, chiefly from Davis to her eldest daughter, as well
as
letters from literary figures, journalists, and artists. Subjects in collection include: Acorn Lodge in Wrightwood, Calif.;
Cajon Pass,
Calif.; Devore, Calif.; Jack and Charmian London; Lute Pease; George Sterling; American newspapers in Wisconsin; Railroad
Employees in the United States;
Reporters and reporting in the United States; Temperance Poetry; and World War I.
Background
Emma Jane Cook Davis (aka Jennie C. Davis, aka J.C. Davis, aka Mrs. Herbert Benton
Davis) was born on October 17, 1851, in White Pigeon, Michigan. Davis lived in
various locations growing up. At the age of four, her family moved to Iowa. When she
was fourteen, they moved to Indiana. After her father died in 1870, Davis inherited
a small amount of money. She obtained permission from her mother to use this money
to travel to New York City and attend Cooper’s Union Art Institute in 1873 on the
condition that she marry. She and Herbert Benton Davis married in September of that
year and Davis moved with him to New York. However, after a short attendance at the
institute, family obligations called the couple home.
Extent
356 items in 3 boxes + 3 oversize folders
Restrictions
The Huntington Library does not require that researchers request permission to
quote from or publish images of this material, nor does it charge fees for such
activities. The responsibility for identifying the copyright holder, if there is
one, and obtaining necessary permissions rests with the researcher.
Availability
Open to qualified researchers by prior application through the Reader Services
Department. For more information, contact Reader Services.