Description
The collection spans several
generations of the Wood family, focusing on the personal life and business
activities of Colorado assayer Henry Ellsworth Wood (1855-1932). The bulk of the collection consists of
correspondence, including some 300 pieces from Henry Ellsworth Wood to his wife,
Belle Matteson McGinnis Wood. Subject matter includes the Woods' family life, mining in Colorado, business affairs, and the
Colorado River expedition with John Wesley Powell.
Background
Henry Ellsworth Wood (1855-1932) was born in 1855 in Joliet, Illinois, the son of William Cowper
Wood and Hannah Tucker Lawrence. The Woods hailed from a prominent Connecticut
family which included Oliver Ellsworth, the third Chief Justice of the United States
Supreme Court. In 1868, William accompanied Major John Wesley Powell’s expedition to
explore the headwaters of the Colorado River, hoping a trip to the West might
improve his health. Thirteen-year old Henry joined his father for much of the
journey. Having entered Yale University with the class of 1876, Henry left after two
years of study in mineralogy for a job with the Edgar Thompson Steel Works in
Braddocks, Pennsylvania.
Extent
726 items in 5 boxes
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.