James Hazen Hyde papers
Call Number
Date
Creator
Extent
Language of Materials
Abstract
Collection consists of correspondence, diaries, scrapbooks, photographs, and other papers of James Hazen Hyde (1876-1959). The papers are especially strong in two areas: documentation of Hyde's efforts at expanding knowledge of French culture in America from circa 1894-1905 through the Cercle Français de l'Université Harvard and the Fédération de l'Alliance Francaise, and documentation of his activities as an expatriate living in France from 1906 to 1941. His correspondence includes a large collection of letters to and from his mother, Annie F. Hyde, from 1891-1921; documentation of Red Cross activities in France during World War I; and Hyde's ongoing initiatives to expand Franco-American cultural exchange. His correspondence and diaries (which date from 1922-1940) include extensive references to Hyde's social life, anecdotes and comments about prominent persons, especially diplomats, government officials, military officers, academics, journalists, industrialists, and those from cultural circles from France, the United States, and Britain. Most of the collection is in French.
Biographical / Historical
James Hazen Hyde (1876-1959) was born in New York City, the son of Henry Baldwin Hyde (1834-1899), who had founded the Equitable Life Assurance Company of the United States in 1859, and Annie (Fitch) Hyde (1845-1922). Hyde attended Cutler School in New York and entered Harvard College in 1894. At some point in his youth, Hyde picked up the nickname "Caleb" and correspondence from family and some friends used that name when addressing him.
A lifelong Francophile, Hyde joined the Cercle Francais de l'Universite Harvard, a society of students interested in French culture and literature and proficient in the language. While president of the club in 1897, Hyde received from his father $30,000 to form a trust to fund annual French lectures at Harvard under the auspices of the Cercle Francais. The first of these was delivered in March 1898 by René Doumic. Hyde's initiative led to him being named a member (Chevalier) of the French Legion of Honor in 1900. He would be promoted to the highest ranks in the Legion in the 1920s. In 1904, Hyde supported a counterpart program in France, whereby American academics from Harvard would lecture at the Sorbonne and France's provincial universities; Barrett Wendell was the first of these lecturers. (See the Harvard Register of 1905-06, page 88 (on-line) and, especially, Hyde's description to George Nettleton in this collection of the Cercle and later lectures and Hyde's involvement with them.)
After graduating from Harvard in 1898 with degrees in German and French, Hyde joined his father at the Equitable in the high-ranking position of Second Vice-President. At the time, Hyde's father, Henry, was president and controlling shareholder of the company he had founded, having built it into a firm with perhaps 600,000 policyholders and $400 million of assets. Henry died the following year, in 1899, at age 65, bequeathing to his son the controlling shares. Equitable's First Vice-President James W. Alexander ascended to the presidency and Hyde advanced to First Vice-President.
Over the next few years, Hyde expanded his financial interests, taking on directorships of various banking and other firms. His wealth also grew and his passion for French culture continued, both of which he flaunted. And his position as First Vice-President at Equitable put him in line to become company president. These factors culminated in Hyde's downfall as a businessman in 1905. In January of that year he hosted an ostentatious Versailles-themed costume ball for New York's wealthy elite. The extreme extravagance of the event led to not only general criticism in the press, but investigations into whether Hyde had misappropriated company funds for the purpose. Those at the Equitable looking to oust him from his position of power used the opportunity to deride him as reckless and unfit for the management of a financial firm. By the end of the year Hyde had resigned his position at the Equitable and his many directorships and sold his controlling interest in Equitable to Thomas Fortune Ryan. In December 1905, he sailed to France, where he would live until 1941, returning to America only when forced in the face of Nazi Germany's defeat of France.
During his years in France, Hyde leveraged his wealth to rebuild his reputation, remaking himself as a philanthropist, patron of the arts, and cultural ambassador. As a foundation, he expanded on the French-American cultural exchanges he had begun during his college years. In 1911, when Harvard formalized its own exchange of professors with the Sorbonne, Hyde redirected trust funds to support a continuing series of Harvard lecturers visiting the provinces. He maintained relationships with American diplomats, journalists, military officials, and others, acting as an unofficial guide to French culture and point of introduction to important French contacts. He traveled widely in Europe, and also to the Middle and Far East, enabling him to be a source of information for Americans new to the European scene. He delivered public remarks at times and wrote newspaper articles. During World War I, he gave over his home at 18 rue Adolphe Yvon in Paris to the Red Cross to use as a hospital and he worked as aide to Colonel Harvey D. Gibson, Commissioner for France of the American Red Cross.
After WWI, when the American Field Service created its Fellowships for French Universities, Hyde was on the Advisory Board. In the 1920s, Hyde was on the Executive Committee of the Continental Division of the American University in Europe, among other positions involving cultural exchange. As a philanthropist, among the many projects he supported were Albert Lythgoe's Egyptian archaeological expeditions and the acquisition and restoration of Madame Pompadour's residence at Versailles. He collected art, including a large number of allegorical prints now in the collections of New-York Historical Society. In recognition of his cultural and philanthropic services, Hyde was awarded the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honor in 1928 and was elected to the French Academy of Political and Moral Sciences in 1938, among other honors.
In 1913 in Paris, Hyde married for the first time and his wedding was emblematic of his French-American interconnections. His bride was Countess Louis de Gontaut-Biron, whose first husband, a member of the old French aristocracy, had died in 1907. She was American, her maiden name being Marthe Leishman, the daughter of a former United States ambassador to Germany. Hyde's best man was Myron T. Herrick, the American ambassador to France. The Hydes had one son, Henry Baldwin Hyde (1915-1997), and they divorced in 1918; the New York Times reported that the cause was Marthe's sympathies toward the Germans during World War I. Nonetheless, as Hyde's diaries show, Marthe and Hyde stayed in touch over the years, notably in connection with their son; Marthe sent congratulations to Hyde on the occasion of his promotion to Grand Officer of the Legion of Honor in 1923 (see Series V, Volume 3).
Hyde remarried in 1930, to Countess Ella Matuschka, who was also an American (from Detroit) and who was previously married to a German officer. Hyde left her in 1931 and was sued for divorce in 1932. That same year, Hyde married a third time to Madame Thome (nee Stephanie Dervaux?), whose husband, Andre Thome, had been killed at Verdun.
On his return to the United States in 1941, Hyde lived at the Savoy-Plaza Hotel in New York and summered in Saratoga Springs. Over time in the 1940s and 1950s, he donated his papers and some of his artwork to the New-York Historical Society. He died of pneumonia in 1959 at the Gideon Putnam Hotel in Saratoga Springs.
Arrangement
The collection is organized in eight series:
Series I. General Correspondence (1878, 1892-1939, 1953)
Series II. Correspondence with Annie Fitch Hyde (circa 1891-1922)
Series III: Correspondence Concerning Federation de l'Alliance Francaise (1898-1935)
Series IV. Diaries (1922-1940)
Series V. Cercle Francais and Other, Related Scrapbooks (1894-1905)
Series VI. Legion of Honor Letter Books (1921, 1923, 1928)
Series VII. Henry Baldwin Hyde Memorial Books (1874, 1894, 1899-1900)
Series VIII. Photographs and Certificates (circa 1880s-1953)
Scope and Contents
The collection consists of James Hazen Hyde's correspondence, diaries, scrapbooks, photographs, and other papers dating primarily from the 1890s, when he was an undergraduate student at Harvard, through 1940, shortly before he returned to the United States from France. Hyde's involvement with the Cercle Français de l'Université Harvard and the Fédération de l'Alliance Francaise in the 1890s-circa 1904 are well-documented in correspondence and scrapbooks. Hyde's diaries begin in 1922 and end in 1940, that is, for the latter half of his time residing in France. They include details of his social engagements, anecdotes and comments about prominent persons, descriptions of his travel, and visits to cultural events and institutions, and include clippings, theatre and opera programs, and other print matter related to his activities and interests.
Hyde's correspondence files extend principally from the 1890s to the 1930s, and especially pertain to his interest in Franco-American relations, e.g. American Field Service Fellowships, arranging American lecture tours by French professors and vice versa, and his work in the American Red Cross in France during World War I. Hyde's correspondents include diplomats, government officials, military officers, academics, journalists, industrialists, and those from cultural circles, though the extent and substance of each is uneven. The container list of the finding aid includes an inventory of the correspondents. Especially rich is a large collection of correspondence between Hyde and his mother, Annie Fitch Hyde, from 1891 to 1921. Much of the correspondence files include both incoming and Hyde's outgoing letters. Although the correspondence with his mother and others touch at times on financial and business matters, there seems to be relatively little on Hyde's activities as an Equitable Assurance Company officer or in his other commercial enterprises prior to departing the U.S. in 1905.
One set of bound volumes in the collection hold congratulatory letters to Hyde on his promotions within the French Legion of Honor in the 1920s. Another set are memorial books with condolence letters and other documents related to the death of Hyde's father, Henry Baldwin Hyde in 1899. There are a few family photographs and diplomas/certificates.
An extensive amount of the collection, likely well more than half, is in French. Some, especially print matter in the diaries, is in German.
Subjects
Organizations
Genres
People
Topics
Conditions Governing Access
Open to qualified researchers.
Conditions Governing Use
Photocopying undertaken by staff only. Limited to twenty exposures of stable, unbound material per day. (Researchers may not accrue unused copy amounts from previous days.) This collection is owned by the New-York Historical Society. The copyright law of the United States governs the making of photocopies and protects unpublished materials as well as published materials. Unpublished materials created before January 1, 1978 cannot be quoted in publication without permission of the copyright holder.
Preferred Citation
This collection should be cited as the James Hazen Hyde Papers, MS 319, New-York Historical Society.
Immediate Source of Acquisition
James Hazen Hyde made various donations in a piecemeal fashion to N-YHS over the course of the 1940s and 1950s. This collection includes most of the personal papers he donated. The various acquisition dates for the materials in Series III-VII are noted at the series level. All those materials were donated with Hyde's stipulation that they would not be made available until after his death, which occurred in 1959.
It is not clear when the correspondence in Series I and II was donated. At points in the 1940s and 1950s, Hyde informed N-YHS's director at the time that he was going through the correspondence to identify what he would donate (he was discarding "uninteresting and personal letters"), again with the stipulation that it would not be available until after his death. A list of notable correspondents is in the archive from 1959 so the correspondence was donated no later than then.
About this Guide
Repository
Series I. General Correspondence, 1878, 1892-1939, 1953, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
This series includes Hyde's incoming and outgoing correspondence dating primarily from his years living in France. Correspondents include both French and American politicians, diplomats, military officers, journalists, editors, writers, scholars, and others. Most of the correspondence is in French. Subject matter pertains to his interest in Franco-American relations, American Field Service Fellowships, American lecture tours by French professors and vice versa, his work for the American Red Cross in France during World War I, his social life, philanthropy, support for the arts and cultural endeavors, anecdotes and comments about prominent persons. Some correspondence dates from the 1890s and early years of the twentieth century, before Hyde left the United States for France. Letters from that early period generally concern business matters. The series also includes copies of some remarks given by Hyde in public presentations after World War I.
Several of the files include an index card with typed explanatory notes about the correspondent or subject. It seems likely that these were prepared by Hyde as he prepared the files for donation to N-YHS. This view is based on an exchange Hyde had with N-YHS director R.W.G. Vail in 1950 in which Hyde asked whether he should annotate the original documents with comments, to which Vail suggested the addition of typed memos to the file instead. (See N-YHS's institutional archive, General Correspondence record group (NYHS-RG 2).
The container list includes a detailed list of most of the correspondents in the series. All correspondents filed separately are listed and most correspondents in the "miscellaneous" correspondents are identified. Some correspondents are not listed because their name was illegible or because they were included in folders under another correspondent's name.
An attempt was made to note any potentially substantive subject matter at the folder level. However, a significant constraint on this was the fact that most of the letters are in French and the processing archivists could not read French.
Arrangement
The series is arranged alphabetically by correspondent.
Within folders for each correspondent, the original order appears to have been reverse chronological (i.e., latest documents at front of folder, moving backward in time to the earliest at back of folder). Generally, the documents remain in this order. However, during processing some select folders were re-arranged to chronological order to facilitate use.
Many folders include some undated documents. The presence of such documents was noted explicitly in the container list only if there were a substantial number of them and if these undated might not be fairly represented by the dated documents.
Processing Information
The series was inventoried by intern Aaron Roffman, with descriptive notes added by archivist Larry Weimer.
Adams, Charles F, 1896-1929, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Business associate and friend from Harvard. Discussion of financial matters. Hyde describes interest in Franco-American relations and living in France. Also includes letters from Charles F. Adams 2nd.
Allen, Henry T. (General), 1919-1923, inclusive
Scope and Contents
American general from World War I. Letters primarily concern arrangements to meet at various times and places. Various mentions of post-war issues, such as the timing of withdrawal of American forces.
Allenby, Edmund, 1930, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Donated to the British National Cadet Association, asked to do so anonymously. Hyde also refers to his coming marriage to Countess Matuschka.
American Field Service Fellowships for French Universities, 1920-1924, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Hyde was on the advisory board and the Paris Committee of this organization. Concerns the American Field Service Scholarship Fund, various other donations (including the proceeds of Georges Clemenceau's lecture tour in America), and organizational matters. Includes correspondence from one of the organization's vice-presidents, A. Piatt Andrew, some meeting minutes, publicity materials.
American Red Cross - Boulogne s/ Mer, 1918, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Stated commmunication was received and that further letters would not be necessary. Original communication not present.
American Red Cross - Miscellaneous, 1917-1918, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Secured a laboratory for Stationary Hospital 12, and other arrangements, including an African-American banjo player for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Several communications in French.
American Red Cross - Brest, 1918, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Involved with US military plans to reorganize the Red Cross system throughout France.
American Red Cross (Dans Militaires), 1915, 1918, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Primarily letters of thanks to Hyde for contributions toward Christmas dinners.
American Red Cross (Installation des Directeurs de Zones), 1918, inclusive
American Red Cross - Lyon, 1918, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Unsatisfactory care due to being short-staffed. Installation of new officers for the region.
American Red Cross - Marseille, 1918, inclusive
American Red Cross-Nantes, 1918, inclusive
American Red Cross (Papiers Divers), 1918, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Contains information on management, key contacts, and logistics for the American Red Cross.
American Red Cross - Paris, 1918, inclusive
American Relief Clearing House, 1916-1917, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Includes, among other matters, Hyde's reports on his trips to hospitals in the Verdun and Somme regions.
Andrew, A. Piatt, 1907-1926, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Includes, among others, letters on the stationery of the Field Service of the American Ambulance.
Azan, Paul (Colonel), 1917-1933, inclusive
B. Miscellaneous, 1901-1931, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Correspondents include, among others, Leon Bakst, French diplomat Barere, Henry Berenger, Leon Blum, Andre Blum, General Belin, Carl Boyd, Rene Boylesve, Captain Boutal, Comte Bonin-Longare, Andre Bellessort, Emile Borel, Philippe Bunau-Varilla, Henri Bremond, H. Berthon, V. Berard, Jean Babelon.
Bacon, Robert, 1912, inclusive
Baldensperger, Fernand, 1913-1935, inclusive
Bangs, John Kendrick, 1904-1905, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Two handwritten letters from Hyde: thanking Bangs for his note declining to attend Hyde's party because of a trip to Cuba (1904) and acknowledging Bangs's recent note and his friendly interest and courtesy (1905). (Source: These two letters were donated to N-YHS in May 2019 by Christine Durling, and added to the Hyde papers at that time.)
Barres, Maurice (de l'Academie Francaise), 1917-1919, inclusive
Barthou, Louis, 1910-1924, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Also includes correspondence with Pierre Loti.
Bayet, A, 1904-1914, inclusive
Bedier, Joseph, 1911-1935, inclusive
Bennett, James Gordon & Maud, 1912-1917, inclusive
Bergson, Henri, 1909-1934, inclusive
Berthelot, Philippe & Helene (2 folders), 1912-1930, inclusive
Bliss, Robert Woods & Mildred, 1914-1932, inclusive
Bocher, Ferdinand, 1896-1902, inclusive
Bourgeois, Emile, 1920-1929, inclusive
Boutroux, Emile & Aline (de l'Academie Francaise), 1907-1921, inclusive
Breasted, James Henry, 1924-1935, inclusive
Brisbane, Arthur, 1902-1923, inclusive
Brisson, Adolphe & Madeleine, 1910-1928, inclusive
Brunetiere, Ferdinand, 1897-1899, 1906, inclusive
Bucher, Pierre (Docteur), 1918-1920, inclusive
Byne, Arthur & Mildred, 1921-1934, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Friends living in "backward" Spain. Hyde recounts his travels to other countries.
C. Miscellaneous, 1910-1925, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Correspondents are General de Castelnau, Madame Colette, Edmond Clement, General Cadondal(?), M. Collignon, Yvonne Carteroux(?) of the Hospital de Madame Messimy.
Calmette, Gaston (editor of "Le Figaro"), 1902-1913, inclusive
Cambon, Jules (2 folders), 1900-1928, inclusive
Scope and Contents
The first folder contains extensive correspondence (in French); the second holds the program for the banquet held for Cambon (Ambassador of France) at Washington, DC, in 1902 by the Legionnaires in the United States (Hyde was on the Committee on Arrangements.)
Cambon, Paul, 1913-1921, inclusive
Capper, Arthur (U.S. Senator), 1925-1929, inclusive
Carrel, Alexis & Anne, 1913-1927, inclusive
Castellane, Boni & Anne de, 1906-1916, inclusive
Charmes, Francis, 1909-1913, inclusive
Chaumeix, Andre, 1910-1913, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Identified as editor of the Reveudes Deux Monds and a writer for the Journal des Debats.
Chinard, Gilbert, 1908-1921, inclusive
Chiappe, Jean, 1927-1935, inclusive
Clemenceau, Georges, 1915-1925, inclusive
Clifton, Chalmers Dancy & Wanda B., 1919-1939, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Extensive correspondence, in English, from Clifton commenting on U.S. politics, among other matters. Two programs from concerts conducted by Clifton (1929, 1933) are in the folder.
Coolidge, Archibald Cary (2 folders), 1896-1921, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Several of the letters are addressed by Coolidge to a Monsieur Gofflot, at the same address used by Hyde and stamped as received by Hyde. These letters to Gofflot are in French; the other letters in this file are in English.
Coolidge, Harold Jefferson, 1902, 1928-1933, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Among other subjects, includes biographical note of Archibald Coolidge written by Hyde at brother Harold's request. Also includes a 1902 map of Indo-China marked to show Harold Coolidge's proposed area for traveling and collecting in 1928.
Coquelin [Cadet?], 1904-1909, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Although these letters certainly appear to be from Coquelin Cadet (i.e. Ernest Alexandre Honoré Coquelin), there is one letter signed "Coq" and stamped by Hyde as 1918, years after Coquelin's death. However, other correspondence in this series bears a similar stamped date, which often seems clear that it is a mistake and is actually 1908. One letter, from late 1909, is to Jean Coquelin. All other letters are from 1904-1907 or undated.
Cortesi, Salvatore, 1914-1931, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Principally concerns arrangements Hyde made through Cortesi to visit the Italian front in 1916, which led to an article written by Hyde.
Crane, Charles R, 1909, inclusive
Cuyler, Thomas DeWitt (4 folders), 1899-1919, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Principally concerns various business matters related to the Equitable Life Assurance Society (e.g., considering acquiring land in Philadelphia for an office adjacent to the Arcade Building at Broad and Market), Franklin National Bank, Commercial Trust Company, Girard Trust Company, National Union Bank, Citizens National Bank of Cincinnati, and others. These are often related to investments, acquisitions, bank consolidations, loans, board meeting arrangements and naming of directors. Most of the letters are incoming from Cuyler and date through 1904. There are fewer letters from 1906-1919, are mostly incoming from Cuyler with some outgoing from Hyde, and are generally pleasantries, with some references to financial matters.
D. Miscellaneous, 1898-1931, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Correspondents include, among others, Marcel Dieulafoy, Charles Dumon, J. Depelley, Monsieur Delcasse, J. Delton, Colonel Denvignes, General Henri Duport, General Debeny, Colonel Dupuy, and photo postcard of and from Warrington Dawson.
Dard, Emile, 1908-1920, inclusive
Deane, R, 1919, inclusive
Deering, James, 1903-1916, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Principally includes an invitation to Hyde to join the Franco-American Committee of Patronage, with material related to the organization (1903).
Depew, Chauncey M., 1892-1908, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Trustee of Equitable Trust Company and U.S. senator. Principally involves expressions of support and other matters consistent with a relationship between an older mentor from the business and political world and younger man attending Harvard and starting his career.
Deschanel, Paul (Mr & Mme)
Diehl, Charles, 1926-1935, inclusive
Doumer, Paul, 1907, 1915-1930, inclusive
Doumergue, Gaston, 1925-1934, inclusive
Doumic, Rene & Helene, circa 1897-1913, 1927-1929, inclusive
Dubois (General), 1915, inclusive
E. Miscellaneous, 1909-1935, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Correspondents are C. Enlart, Eugene d'Eichtal, Governor of Pennsylvania George H. Earle and wife Huberta.
Edge, Walter E., 1929-1931, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Concerns Ambassador Edge's initiative to acquire copies of portraits of past ambassadors to exhibit.
Einstein, Lewis, 1914, 1924-1930, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Primarily concerns exchanges (1924-25) regarding Hyde's and Einstein's tapestries, and others.
Estournelles de Constant (Baron), Jean d'Janvier, 1902-1913, inclusive
F. Miscellaneous, 1902-1921, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Correspondents include, among others, Ambassador de Fleuriau, General Ferrie, General Feraud, David R. Francis (regarding the Louisiana Purchase Exposition Company), du Fonarre(?).
Fay, Bernard, 1920-1921, 1931-1934, inclusive
Ferrero, Guglielmo, 1908-1917, 1935, inclusive
Feuillerat, Albert, 1912-1931, inclusive
Finley, John Huston & Martha, 1911-1927, inclusive
Flat, Paul, 1915-1916, inclusive
Flers, Robert de, 1923, undated, inclusive
Flexner, Abraham and Anne Crawford, 1912-1932, inclusive
Foch, Ferdinand (Maréchal & Mme) (3 folders), 1908-1931, inclusive
Forain, Jean Louis, 1906-1907, inclusive
Ford, J.D.M, 1921-1926, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Several letters written on stationery of American University Union in Europe for which Hyde and Ford were on the Continental Division's Executive Committee. Concerns various academic matters, including arrangements for Ford's lectures in Europe.
Ford, Stanley H., 1933, inclusive
Fortier, Alcee, 1902-1907, inclusive
Franchet d'Esperey (Maréchal), 1917-1918, 1933, inclusive
Francois, Marsal F., 1916, inclusive
Francois-Poncet, 1929-1931, inclusive
Friant, Emile, 1913, inclusive
Frick, Henry.Clay, 1901-1903, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Principally relates to bank relationships and shared directorships between Frick and Hyde.
Fullerton, W.M., 1911, 1914, 1925, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Includes, among other matters, discussion by Fullerton concerning arrangements for the Exposition internationale urbaine de Lyon in 1914.
Funck-Brentano, Frantz, 1900-1929, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Includes clippings about Funck-Brentano from 1900 and 1904. Letters begin in 1904.
G. Miscellaneous, 1916-1935, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Correspondents include, among others, General Charles Grant, Marcel Gounouilhou, General Gamelin, V. Grignard, General Gourko, General Georges, Sacha Guitry (and wife, Charlotte Lysis).
Gage, Homer (Doctor), 1927-1930, inclusive
Scope and Contents
On the building of a dormitory for American students at Cite Universitaire in Paris.
Gardner, Isabella Stewart, 1908, undated, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Several letters from Gardner, all but one undated. Generally appear to concern pleasantries, invitations, general references to Fenway Court, and other social matters.
Garner, James Wilford, 1917, 1920-1921, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Primarily concerns Garner's lecture tour in France (1921) and related matters.
Gay, Walter & Matilda (Mathilde), 1921-1924, inclusive
Scope and Contents
All of the incoming letters are from Matilda Gay and concern various social matters and pleasantries. Includes a reference to pigeons acquired from Hyde for Le Briau.
Germain, Henri (Madame), 1903-1918, inclusive
Gibson, Hugh, 1922-1931, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Includes an invitation to Gibson's wedding (1922); letters concerning the arrangements and formalities for attending a Court Ball (1928), and a request by Hyde for a recommendation for a possible lecturer (1931).
Gillet, Louis, 1907-1934, inclusive
Giraudoux, Jean, 1907-1926, inclusive
Gould, Anna, 1906-1907, inclusive
Gouraud, Henri (General), 1911-1933, inclusive
Greene, Jerome D., 1899-1919, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Inquiries from Greene about a position with the Equitable (1899); letters of introduction from Greene; inquiries from Hyde as to Greene proposing him for club memberships; and other such matters.
Gregory, Eliot (2 folders), 1908-1915, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Extensive correspondence discussing travels, lectures, cultural matters, social gossip, and personal observations on various matters.
Guillaumat (General), 1918, inclusive
Guitry, Lucien, 1920-1921, inclusive
H. Miscellaneous, 1902-1904, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Only correspondent in the folder is G.G. Haven, concerning trusteeships and financial interests in banks.
Hale, Frederick, 1917, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Two letters from the U.S. senator from Maine in relation to American involvement in World War I.
Hallays, Andre, 1919-1925, inclusive
Hanotaux, Gabriel (Mr & Mme), 1912-1916, 1928, inclusive
Harbord, James G., 1917-1919, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Primarily concerns pleasantries and invitations.
Harjes, Henri H. & Ivy, 1916-1923, inclusive
Scope and Contents
A request for Hyde to add his name to a draft request for funds and men for Red Cross ambulance units (draft included in file); request for Hyde to join a committee to present a monument to France commemorating the battle of the Marne; and Harjes's decline of an unidentified proposal by Hyde (1923).
Harper, William R., 1902
Scope and Contents
Thank you letter for a donation to have guest lecturers.
Harrison, Alexander, 1908
Harrison, Burton
Harrison, Leland, 1921-1935, inclusive
Hart, Albert Bushnell, 1914, 1920-1926, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Concerns discussions over time regarding the possibility of Hart lecturing in France. The 1926 exchange includes Hyde's and Hart's perspectives on historical topics that are irritants in relations between America and France and would be best avoided in the lectures.
Harvard University (3 folders), 1908-1922, 1935, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Correspondents include, among other, Henry Van Dyke, Charles W. Eliot, Waldron H. Rand, Jr., A. Lawrence Lowell, Archibald Cary Coolidge, C.H. Van Tyne, Jules Coulet, James W. Garner, and Henry Munroe. The principal topic concerns arrangements for Harvard to send various professors to lecture in France. These arrangements, especially in terms of the specific professors selected, involve both institutional and geopolitical considerations. There are some documents concerning related efforts, such as lecturers sent to Spain and a 1908 plan for English assistants to be placed in German schools. The bulk of the correspondence ends in 1922; two letters from 1935 include one from James B. Conant responding to Hyde's inquiry about plans for a committee in France for Harvard's 300th anniversary celebration. Some letters are to/from French correspondents and so are in French.
Harvard Exchange Professors, 1912, 1924, 1929, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Includes letters to and from Larz Anderson regarding forming a Harvard Club in Paris (1912) and letters to and from two French correspondents concerning arrangements for Harvard professors teaching in France.
Harvard - Instructeurs Militaires, 1909-1919, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Correspondents include, among others, E. Boutroux, Edward Benedic, Jerome Green, Jean Bourguignon, Carl Boyd, Francois de Chevigne, Jules Cambon.
Harvey, George, 1903, 1916-1917, inclusive
Hastings, Thomas & Helen, 1906, 1923, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Concerns plans for a Marne battle monument in Paris.
Haumont, G., 1928-1931, inclusive
Hazard, Paul, 1914, 1922, 1931, inclusive
Hebrard, Adrien, 1908?-1914, inclusive
Helleu, Paul, 1921, 1924, inclusive
Henri-Robert (Maitre) (Attorney), 1909-1923, inclusive
Henrys (General), 1909-1911, 1918-1919, inclusive
Herbette, Louis, 1902-1907, inclusive
Herbette, Maurice & Denise, 1919-1920, 1928, inclusive
Herr, Georges (General), 1915-1932, inclusive
Herrick, Myron T. (3 folders), 1912-1929, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Much of the correspondence dates from the periods during which Herrick was American ambassador to France.
Herriot, Edouard (Mr & Mme), 1912-1918, inclusive
Hervieu, Paul, 1909-1913, inclusive
Hills, Laurence, 1921-1933, inclusive
Hochon, Louise, 1907-1923, undated, inclusive
Homolle, Theophile, 1908-1923, inclusive
Hopital Auxiliaire No. 79 (2 folders), 1915-1916, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Documents concerning Hyde's Parisian home at 18 Rue Adolphe-Yvon, which he made available as an auxiliary hospital during World War I. Correspondents include the Societe Francaise de Secours aux Blesses Militaires, the American War Relief Clearing House, and many others. Much of the correspondence is from or directed to the administrator of the hospital; this is not Hyde, but L.V. Gofflot. Most of the documents are in French.
House, Edward M. (Colonel & Mme), 1902-1903, 1916-1933, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Early correspondence concerns investments and directorships regarding Equitable. Also includes a preface written by Ernest Lavisse conncerning French heroism (1918), a proposal for an American Soldiers Memorial Hospital in France (circa 1920?), and other matters.
Humbert (General), 1918-1919, inclusive
Huntington, Archer & Helen, 1911-1926, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Primarily letters of introduction, pleasantries and the like, though Hyde in one letter (1920) describes the route of his travels in Spain with some observations.
I. Miscellaneous, 1914-1930, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Two correspondents: Issmett Riza Bey (1914) and General Issaly (1930)
Ishii, K (Ambassadeur), 1915, 1917, inclusive
Jaray, Gabriel Louis, 1910-1916, 1930-1932, inclusive
Joffre, Joseph and Henrietta, 1917-1929, inclusive
Jollivet, Gaston (Mr & Mme), 1912, 1918, inclusive
Jonnart, C, 1924, inclusive
Jouvenel, Henry & Colette de, 1914, inclusive
Jusserand, J.J. (Mr. & Mme), 1904-1928, inclusive
K. Miscellaneous, 1907-1929, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Correspondents are Frau Krupp, L.L. Klotz, Henrietta King, Moustafa, Kamel Pacha.
Kahn, Otto H. & Addie (2 folders), 1900-1929, inclusive
Scope and Contents
The documents from 1900-1909 primarily relate to the Conried Metropolitan Opera Company, the Metropolitan Opera, and the effort by Kahn and Hyde, among others, to develop a "New" or "National Theatre" in New York City. There are also references to Hyde in relation to the Equitable and his ownership of stock, letters of introduction, Hyde's travels in Asia and in Europe during the war, various social and investment matters, etc.
Kapurthala (Maharaja de), 1908-1919, inclusive
Kelly, Edmond, 1902-1904, inclusive
Kerney, James (2 folders), 1918-1933, inclusive
Knecht, Marcel, 1907-1922, inclusive
Knoblock, Edward (Edward Knoblauch), 1911-1931, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Knoblauch changes his surname to Knoblock in 1916. Early letters primarily concern a play of Knoblauch's. Later letters primarily concern art objects acquired by Hyde from Knoblock or with his advice.
Koechlin, Raymond, 1927-1930, inclusive
Kountze, William de Lancey, 1921-1922, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Kountze identifies art objects and requests Hyde's help in acquiring information about them, which Hyde agrees to.
L. Miscellaneous, 1904-1933, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Correspondents are R. de Lamerzan, Rene Lara, Monseigneur Le Roy, Le Coz, Edward Loftus, Louis Loucheur (one letter to James Kerney), H. livington-Sampson, A. de Laborde, Andre de Laboublaye, A.T. Long, Philip M. Lydig (concerning purchasing shares of the Metropolitan Opera Company), Sylvain Lears(?), E.A. Leblond(?), and Le Vert Coleman.
Labbe, Paul, 1917, 1925-1935, inclusive
Labori (Maitre), 1903-1904, inclusive
Lacaze, L. (Admiral), 1915-1926, inclusive
Lacour-Gayet, Georges, 1911-1924, inclusive
Lagrave, Michel, 1902-1903, inclusive
Lamont, Thomas W., 1919-1921, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Concerns funding of the monument of the Battle of the Marne, to be sculpted by Frederick William MacMonnies.
Lamy, Etienne, 1911-1914, inclusive
Langlois, Ch.V., 1921(?), 1929, inclusive
Lanson, Gustave, 1913-1929, inclusive
Lapeyrere, Boue de (Amiral), 1914, 1916, inclusive
Lapie, Paul, 1913, 1925-1926, inclusive
Lauzanne, Stephane, 1916-1927, inclusive
Lavedan, Henri (Mr & Mme), 1914-1929, inclusive
Lavisse, Ernest, 1908-1921, inclusive
Scope and Contents
See also the Edward House folder for a piece written by Lavisse.
Le Braz, Anatole, 1904-1923, inclusive
Lebrun, Albert (Senateur), 1921-1927, inclusive
Lecomte, Georges, 1909-1918, inclusive
Lee, Ivy L., 1919-1920, inclusive
Lefranc, Abel, 1908-1925, inclusive
Legouis, Emile, 1913, 1918, 1932, inclusive
Leland, Waldo G., 1924-1925, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Primarily concerns Leland's suggestions for funding and donation of materials for libraries at French universities, and for an exchange of professorships, both involving Harvard. Includes Hyde's detailed notes of a discussion between him and Leland on these subjects.
Lenotre, G., 1904-1906, inclusive
Le Roux, Hugues (Mr & Mme), 1900-1904, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Among other documents, includes two picture postcard of Le Roux "presente a Menelik la carte du Nil Bleu."
LeRoy, Lewis H. (Colonel), 1917, bulk
Leroy-Beaulieu, Anatole (Mr & Mme), 1903-1911, bulk
LeRoy, White J., 1902-1910, bulk
Liard, L., 1906-1913, bulk
Loubet, Emile (Mr & Mme), 1900-1912, bulk
Low, Seth, 1899, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Concerning lectures on life insurance to be given at Columbia.
Luchaire, Julien, 1913-1931, inclusive
Lyautey (Maréchal), 1909-1933, inclusive
Lyon, Georges, 1928, inclusive
Lythgoe, Albert, 1925-1926, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Concerns Hyde's donation to the Metropolitan Museum of Art,specifically in regard to support for Lythgoe's archaelogical work in Egypt. Lythgoe refers to some aspects of arrangements for the work. See also Edward Robinson folder below.
M. Miscellaneous, 1904-1931, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Correspondents McDougall Hawkes, General de Maud'Huy, Robert H. McCurdy, Langdon P. Marvin, Maurice Muret, Edwin H. Morgan, L'Abbe A. Mugnier, Le Contre-Amiral Mornet, General Meunier, G. Macon, Baron de Meslon, Henry Morgenthau, Prince Danilo de Montenegro, F.A. Mahan, Daniel Michend(?), Monsieur Mauricheau-Beaupre.
Mabilleau, Leopold, 1902-1904, inclusive
Mackay, Clarence & Katherine, 1903-1909, 1927, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Principally concerns activities related to the founding of a "National Theatre" in New York and Hyde's sale of his shares in the Metropolitan Opera Company to Mackay (1906-09). Also concerns Mackay buying shares in Equitable (1903) and other cultural matters (1927).
MacMonnies, Frederick, 1920, 1923, 1932-1933, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Primarily concerns MacMonnies acquiring a letter of introduction to see Marshal Foch, the Battle of the Marne monument, and pleasantries.
McCook, John J., 1878, 1904, 1910, inclusive
Scope and Contents
McCook forwards in 1904 an original 1878 memorandum written by Hyde's father concerning "Mutual's reduction in rates." The 1910 letter from McCook is a letter of reference for a Mr. Straus.
McCormick, Harold F., 1920s?, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Holds a single document: a statement surveying the history and recent prospects of the International Harvester Company in relation to its business activities in France, possibly in connection with granting a national honor to McCormick.
McCormick, Medill, 1918,1920, inclusive
Scope and Contents
US Senator from Illinois. Declined to speak in France due to concerns about the French public's sentiment toward American relations.
McCurdy, Richard A., 1901-1903, inclusive
Scope and Contents
McCurdy was president of the Mutual Life Insurance Company of New York. Though the references are somewhat obscure, the letters from McCurdy appear to concern bank investments and acquisitions for Mutual and the Equitable. Concerning growth of the Continental Insurance Company.
Madelin, Louis, 1907-1928, inclusive
Mahon, Patrice (Commandat & Madame), 1900-1912, 1917, inclusive
Maklakoff, M. (Marie and Basile), 1921-1929, inclusive
Male, Emile, 1920, 1927-1928, 1938, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Also includes correspondence with Georges Guiraud.
Mangin, Ch. (General & Madame), 1917-1919, undated, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Also includes two calling cards of Mr. MacMonnies, with written notes.
Manoury, H., 1914-1917, inclusive
Manzoni, G. (Comte), 1927, 1931, inclusive
Marbury, Elisabeth (Miss), 1903-1909, 1919-1920, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Early letters concern possible productions of plays. Later letters relate to Marbury seeking Hyde's assistance in receiving the Legion of Honor.
Marriner, J.T. (James Theodore), 1933, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Concerns the possibility of erecting a statue to the Marquis de Rochambeau, and a letter of introduction.
Martet, Jean, 1917-1918, inclusive
Martin, Germain, 1902-1933, inclusive
Martin, R. William, 1915-1918, inclusive
Matsui, K. (Mr & Mme), 1916-1919, inclusive
Maurois, Andre, 1926-1933, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Among other matters, list of names and meetings for Maurois in connection with his trip to America.
Menier, Gaston, 1911-1912, 1924, inclusive
Metman, Louis, 1921-1930, inclusive
Meyer, Arthur, 1910, 1923, inclusive
Michel, Andre (Mr & Mme), 1903-1908, inclusive
Mierry, Jean de (Commandant), 1921-1931, inclusive
Millerand, Alexandre (Mr & Mme), 1906-1932, inclusive
Millet, Rene, 1904-1911, inclusive
Mitchell, William (General), 1917-1927, inclusive
Photographic Negative of Unidentified Object, Undated
Scope and Contents
This negative was found during processing in 2018 at this point in the collection. It is not apparent what, if any, connection there is but the item was left as found.
Monaco (Prince & Princesse de), 1917-1922, inclusive
Monvel, Bernard Boutet de, 1909-1924, inclusive
Monvel, Maurice Boutet de, 1899-1912, inclusive
Monvel, Roger Boutet de, 1912-1914, inclusive
Morris, Gouverneur, 1915-1917, inclusive
Mounet-Sully, 1909-1912, inclusive
Moure, E.J. (Docteur), 1910-1931, inclusive
Munsey, Frank A., 1919-1921, inclusive
N. Miscellaneous, 1917-1935, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Correspondents are Brigadier General D.E. Nolan, General Nogues, General Nollet, General Nivelle, Leon Noel, and Pol Neveux.
Nettleton, George H., 1918, 1928-1931, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Concerns Nettleton's lectures in France sponsored by the Hyde Foundation. Some of the documents refer to the history of these lectures and Hyde's involvement.
Nolhac, Pierre de, 1903-1926, inclusive
Norton, C. E. and Grace, 1897-1898, undated, inclusive
Norton, Lawrence H., 1911-1924, inclusive
O. Miscellaneous, 1910, 1915, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Correspondents are the aide-de-camp of Prince Georges Romanowsky and John Ball Osborne. Mention of a tour of the World War I battlefront.
O'Brien, Morgan J., 1901-1908, 1918, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Concerns payment of a loan from the Equitable (1903), attempts by O'Brien to assist in arranging lectures (1907-08), a letter of introduction (1918), and other matters.
Ochs, Adolph S., 1899-1935, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Concerns advertising by Equitable in the Times (1899); the possibility of the Times establishing an international bureau (1900); a letter from Thomas Dewitt Cuyler regarding perceived antagonism toward the Pennsylvania Railroad by the Philadelphia Times (1901); and the Times's plans to move to a new location, the paper's financial status, encouragement to invest in the funding of the new building, the mortgage Equitable holds on the property, and aspects of the building's design (1902-04). Later correspondence (1908-35) mostly concerns letters of introduction, pleasantries, and compliments on written articles.
Ollivier, Emile, 1904, inclusive
Orliac, Marie d', 1913-1914, inclusive
Osler, William, 1908-1919, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Concerning the acquisition of books, particularly antique books in London, and invitations and pleasantries. Also asked for Hyde's assistance in enrolling his son in school in London.
P. Miscellaneous, 1901-1934, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Correspondents include, among others, Ferid Damad Pacha, Frank Puant, Comte Primoli, Georges Pallain, General Pelle, Ernest Perrin, Robert Pinot, Leon Pissard, Claude Pupier, Jean Psichari, M. Prou, Jean Pozzi, Monsieur de Pouydraguin (Comite France-Amerique), Francois Picavet, G. Perrot, H. Poincare, Ferdinand W. Peck (asking Hyde to be on a committee of arrangements for a banquet honoring French ambassador Jules Cambon in Washington), and Frederic C. Penfield. Discussion of a book on motoring (driving) in Spain. Menu for dejeuner at Presidence de la Republique (1 October 1918).
Painleve, Paul, 1915-1928, inclusive
Paleologue, Maurice, 1910-1919, inclusive
Parker, Gilbert, 1915, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Transmittal letters for pamphlets and other print matter to Hyde.
Peabody, Endicott, 1916-1918, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Hyde begins arranging to have his son attend Groton. Other letters with Peabody concern European travel.
Pelliot, Paul, 1914, 1928-1930, inclusive
Perate, Andre, 1919-1931, inclusive
Perkins, Dexter, 1911-1913, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Primarily concerns Perkins's fellowship at the Ecole des Sciences Politiques and his descriptions to Hyde of travels in Italy, northern Africa and Russia.
Pernot, Maurice, 1915-1929, inclusive
Perry, Bliss (Mr & Mme), 1909-1914, 1927, 1932, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Extensive correspondence from 1909-14 concerning Perry's lectures in France (arrangements, subject matter, reception in the various cities, plans to publish French translations of the lectures). In his letters to Perry, Hyde provides a great deal of historical context about these lectures. The correspondence largely ends in 1912. The few later letters include a request from Hyde for a letter of introduction (1914), request from Hyde for information about the Swiss school (Bellerive Institute) to which Perry had sent his son (1927), and a letter from Rachel Perry to the new Mrs. Hyde with very expressive congratulations on her marriage (1932) (see also Ralph Perry folder for other letters from Rachel).
Perry, Ralph Barton, 1921-1935, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Also includes letters from Rachel Perry.
Pershing, John J. (General), 1917-1921, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Hyde proposes to Pershing that an information bureau be created for university men coming to France (1917). This matter does not appear to be answered in these letters; the others are primarily invitations, thanks, greetings and pleasantries.
Persil, Raoul, 1914-1925, inclusive
Petain (Maréchal), 1916-1920, inclusive
Phipps, Eric (Sir), 1927-1933, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Primarily invitations, congratulations on appointments, letters of introduction requests, and greetings, but also describes a James H. Hyde traveling scholarship awarded by the Royal Society of Arts.
Picard, Emile, 1929-1932, inclusive
Pichon,Stephen, 1907, 1913-1919, inclusive
Pierce, Daniel T., 1918-1930, inclusive
Pierson, Blanche, 1907-1919, inclusive
Platt, T.C. (U.S. Senator), 1901, 1903, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Platt confirms to W.H. McIntyre that an award will be given the Cercle Francaise de l'Universite Harvard (1901). a frank of the National Express Company is given to Hyde (1903). Platt is asked to intercede with the Secretary of the Treasury for the National Bank of Commerce to continue as a depositary of funds, but finds that this need no longer exists (1903).
Poincare, Lucien, 1910-1920, inclusive
Poincare, Raymond, 1916-1926, inclusive
Polos (Federation des Polos de France), 1922, inclusive
Scope and Contents
The principal correspondent is General de Serrigny.
Porche, Francois, 1926-1929, inclusive
Porter, Horace (General), 1903-1907, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Primarily concerns the farewell banquet for Ambassador Porter given at the Hotel du Palais d'Orsay by the American "colony" in Paris (Hyde was on the Arrangements Committee). Includes the program/menu, clippings of news coverage, and correspondence.
Prevost, Marcel, 1907-1935, inclusive
R. Miscellaneous, 1913-1931, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Correspondents are Royal Military College (in connection with Hyde's gift of a bronze replica of Marshal Foch's death mask); Monsieur Regnault; Leon Renier; Louis Renault; A. Romanof(?); Henry Roujon; M. Ractivay(?); Gaston Rageot; Salvagio Raggi; Theodore Roosevelt (two invitations to receptions at the White House, 1903 and 1904; a typed letter signed and marked up by Roosevelt on Metropolitan letterhead in which he tells Hyde that if he should go abroad it would be best not to attend a banquet for him, at least until the war is over (May 10, 1917); Philippe Roy; Warren Delano Robbins; Alfred Richard (regarding the Foch death mask); Richard C. Richardson, Jr.; A. Ribot; Royal Society of Literature (M.H. Wagstaff).
Raleigh, Walter A., 1914-1917, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Primarily concerns Hyde's interest in joining the Bibliographical Society of London, and in getting information from Raleigh about placing his young son in an English public school, with Eton and Winchester under discussion.
Reau, Louis, 1924-1931, inclusive
Reay (Mr & Mme/Lord & Lady), 1910-1914, inclusive
Recouly, Raymond, 1915-1932, inclusive
Regnier, Henri de (Mr & Mme), 1900-1912, 1933, inclusive
Reinach, Joseph, 1910, 1912-1916, inclusive
Reinach, Salomon, 1911-1932, inclusive
Reinach, Theodore, 1916-1928, inclusive
Rejane (Madame), 1907-1919, inclusive
Revue de Deux Mondes - Centenaire, 1929, inclusive
Scope and Contents
The folder holds tickets, invitations, programs, menus and other ephemera related to the celebration of this centennial anniversary. Also holds some news clippings about it, including one referring to the fact that Hyde would speak at an event. An edited speech (in French) in the file is likely Hyde's remarks. Three letters are to/from Marcel Bouteron. See also the Rene Doumic folder.
Reynaud, Paul, 1917-1930, inclusive
Richepin, John, 1908-1919, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Among other subjects, makes reference to Winthrop Ames and the New Theatre (in French).
Robertson, William, 1919-1920, inclusive
Robilant, Marie de (General), 1918-1919, inclusive
Roberts, Elmer, 1913-1931, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Correspondent from The Associated Press's Paris Bureau. The 1915 letter includes a small photograph of Roberts; in his 1914-18 letters, Roberts comments on news he is hearing of military and diplomatic matters; from 1920-25, Roberts offers general thoughts about his meeting with Clemenceau and other matters; Roberts seeks to find information about French loans to America during the American Revolution and Hyde provides the detail.
Robinson, Edward & Elisabeth, 1899-1903, 1921-1925, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Primarily concerns Hyde's donations (Union Library in Boston, 1901, and Lythgoe's Egyptian expedition, 1925) or potential donations (University Club, Boston, 1899) to various cultural projects. Also Hyde requests a reference for a researcher for his book on allegories; Robertson provides the name of Phila C. Nye. Most letters are from Edward; two undated letters are from Elisabeth.
Rockefeller, Jr., John D., 1910, 1916-1922, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Primarily includes letters of introduction and related matters. Most substantively, Rockefeller introduces Hyde to Dr. Robert (or Richard) W. Corwin of the Colorado Fuel & Iron Company's Hospital. Rockefeller explains Corwin's mission to Europe to study the work of Doctors Carrel and Dakin to seek ideas for aiding those injured in mines; Hyde reports briefly back on Corwin's visit (1916). Rockefeller's letters date from 1916-18 and 1922. There are two 1910 notes from Edith Rockefeller McCormick, and these are generally courtesies.
Rod, Edouard, 1903-1908, inclusive
Rodin, Auguste, 1904(?)-1912, inclusive
Ronciere, Charles de la, 1922-1931, inclusive
Roussillon, Jean, 1931-1932, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Also includes a copy of one letter from Berthelot to Andre Tardieu.
Roz, Firmin, 1912-1929, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Includes, among many other matters, notes on a meeting with Kingsley Porter (1923).
Russell, Henry, 1909-1916, inclusive
Ryan, Thomas Fortune, 1903-1906, 1917, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Early correspondence appears to relate primarily to matters concerning directorships of a bank and to Hyde's appointment of certain Equitable stock in his will. Later (1917) letters from Hyde are letters of introduction.
S. Miscellaneous, 1902-1930, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Correspondents are Victorien Sardou; J.H. Sears: E.L. Spiers; Eugene Schneider; Jonkheer R. de Marees van Swinderen; George Saunders; V.P. Snyder of the Western National Bank, on various international financial matters (1902); Comte de Saint Aulaire.
Sabine, Wallace C. & Jane K., 1916-1917, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Seems to be concerned primarily with Sabine's involvement in medical and relief work, with Hyde offering support and introductions. Many of Sabine's letters are on the letterhead of the Clinique Miremont in Leysin. Included is a copy of a letter from Jerome Greene of the Rockefeller Foundation explaining their willingness to support any campaign against tuberculosis in France authorized by the government.
Sachs, Paul J., 1926-1935, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Among other matters, Hyde acts as intermediary for arrangements to bring Adolfo Venturi to Harvard to give courses in the Department of Fine Arts (1927); request that Hyde approach Bernard Berenson to give seminars at Fogg (1927); Hyde reports in outline on travels in Germany, apparently with letters of introduction from Sachs (1928); Hyde requests Sachs to give a lecture tour in the French provinces, which Sachs agrees to (several letters regarding this matter, 1932 and later); Sachs, on his own and at Berenson's suggestions, asks Hyde for letters of introduction to and information about various collectors in France (1933).
Schiff, Jacob, 1896-1904, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Primarily concerns financial matters, including investments in the Conried Metropolitan Opera Company and the Fifth Avenue Trust Co. Reference to directorships of the Western National Bank.
Schiff, Mortimer L., 1924-1930, inclusive
Serrigny, B. (General), 1917-1921, inclusive
Scope and Contents
See also the folder Polos (Federation des Polos de France) for additional correspondence with Serrigny.
Sharkey, Joseph E., 1912-1934, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Sharkey is a correspondent for The Associated Press, and the correspondence with Hyde primarily concerns their observations about people they meet and world affairs. In a 1913 letter, Sharkey offers observations of Governor Woodrow Wilson; from 1913-1921, Sharkey is in the Tokyo Bureau and writes about the war and other matters in the Pacific; from 1925-1934, Sharkey is in the Geneva Bureau and the exchanges relate to European affairs.
Sharp, George C., 1932, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Concerns the possibility of acquiring a portrait of Sharp's father for the American Chancery.
Sharp, William G, 1915-1922, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Primarily includes invitations, courtesies, letters of introductions and the like. Perhaps the most substantive is a February 1917 letter in which Ambassador Sharp expresses his full support for Woodrow's position on freedom of the seas.
Siegfried, Jules, 1902-1922, 1931-1935, inclusive
Societe Francaise de Secours aux Blesses Militaires, 1915-1917, inclusive
Stillman, James, 1908, 1915, 1917, inclusive
Stokes, Anson Phelps, 1929, 1933, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Stokes describes the Institute of International Education and requests a donation (1929), and Stokes notes the success in France of Paul Sachs's lectures, with other comments (1933).
Stone, Melville E., 1909-1924, inclusive
Storrs, Ronald (Sir), 1931, 1933, inclusive
Strong, Eugenie (Mrs. Arthur Strong), 1914-1933, inclusive
T. Miscellaneous, 1912
Scope and Contents
Holds one letter, from Thouvenel.
Talleyrand, Duchess de, 1911, undated, inclusive
Tardieu, Andre (3 folders), 1906-1935, inclusive
Thenault, Georges (Capitaine), 1921-1933, inclusive
Thiebaut (at French embassies in Washington DC and in Bern), 1900-1903, inclusive
Thurwanger, Camille, 1907-1913, inclusive
Tirard, Paul, 1919-1930, inclusive
Tittoni, T., 1916, 1918, inclusive
Townsend, Reginald T., 1918-1919, inclusive
Tucker, Mona, 1953
Scope and Contents
This standalone letter from Tucker to Hyde was found in N-YHS's institutional archives correspondence, and moved here by the processing archivist, which explains the outlying date.
Untermyer, Samuel, 1906-1908, inclusive
V. Miscellaneous, 1902-1925, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Correspondents are Comte de Vogue; Ernest Van Dyke; E.H. Vigier; Paul Valery; K.M. Venizelos; Comte de San Martino Valperga; Henry Vignaud; Howard Vyse.
Vacaresco, Helene, 1907(?), 1929, 1932, inclusive
Van de Vyvere, A., 1915-1916, inclusive
Van Dyke, Henry, 1908-1913, 1921-1922, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Primarily concerns arrangements for Van Dyke's lectures in France.
Van Dyke, Paul, 1919-1929, inclusive
Van Tyne, Claude H., 1913, inclusive
Vanderbilt, Alfred & Margaret, 1901, 1907-1911, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Concerns interest by Hyde in providing a prize for the Olympia Horse Show; there is also a letter concerning French interest in the New York Horse Show (1910-11). Holds two indentures/leases from Hyde to Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt for a stable in New York (West 58th Street between Broadway and Seventh Ave), 1907, 1909. Confirmation from Vanderbilt that he has signed papers for Equitable business matters.
Veber, Pierre, 1906-1908, 1918-1926, inclusive
Venturi, A. (Senatore), 1925-1927, inclusive
W. Miscellaneous, 1906-1933, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Correspondents include, among others, Edith Wharton (accepting a lunch invitation, 1915, and informing Hyde she advised Madame Borel to affiliate with Madame de Billy, 1917); W.A. White; Hugh Campbell Wallace; Post Wheeler; Morgan (?) Weinberg; Henri Welchinger; Henry White; Charles Wyndham.
Waddington, Mary King (Madame), 1907-1917, inclusive
Ward, J.Q.A. (John Quincy Adams), 1899-1902, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Primarily concerns the sculptor's work on a statuette of Hyde's father.
Watterson, Henry (Colonel & Mme), 1913,1916, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Hyde provides a detailed itinerary for his recommended travels in France.
Weill, Felix, 1921-1927, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Extensive correspondence, the bulk of which is in French. It appears to relate primarily to matters concerning the Federation de l'Alliance Francaise Aux Etats-Unis et au Canada. Weill is Secretary General and Hyde is a Vice-President; the letters from Weill are generally on Federation letterhead.
Westinghouse, George, 1901-1904, inclusive
Weygand (General), 1917-1933, inclusive
Wilson, A.H. Hutton, 1916-1917, inclusive
Scope and Contents
3 letters primarily concerning Hyde's request that he and a John H. Finley (and their chauffeurs) be permitted to visit the British front; Wilson says permission needs to be granted through the British Military Attache instead of him.
Wilson, H.B. (Admiral), 1918, inclusive
Winthrop, Henry Rogers & Alice, 1909, 1921, 1929-1935, inclusive
Scope and Contents
One letter relates to the Metropolitan Opera Company (1909). The other letters primarily concern an exchange of observations about relations between France and the U.S, and in the 1930s, observations about Germany and the European situation. References to Alice are to Winthrop's daughter and her engagement.
Wister, Owen, 1929, undated, inclusive
Wolfe, Elsie de, 1919-1926, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Primarily concerns de Wolfe recommending or commenting on certain furniture/decorative furnishings to Hyde.
Woods, Lawrence C., 1917-1918, inclusive
Zaharoff, Basil, 1927-1929, inclusive
Lecture at Nantes, 1917 July 4, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Hyde's remarks were on the occasion of a celebration of the arrival of American troops in France. The folder holds his remarks, which are in French, and an English translation of them under the subject title "Franco-American Historical Relations from 1776 until 1914," which apparently was delivered the next day at Major General William Sibert's request to his officers. An oversize poster announcing the event was removed to an oversize folder.
Lecture at Nantes (2 of 2). Oversize, 1917 July 4
Scope and Contents
Oversize poster for the event.
Article "The Antithesis of Kaiserism: The Royal Return to Brussels", 1918 November
Scope and Contents
An article or memoir written by Hyde describing his travels to Lille and elsewhere in Belgium shortly after the Germans left and as the royal family returned. In English.
"Lettres d'Alsace. Premiere lettre. L'Anniversarie de la Liberation Strasbourg", 1919
Scope and Contents
Article written by Hyde describing his travels in Strasbourg beginning 22 November 1919. In French.
Speech at the Centennial of the Ecole Centrale des Arts & Manufactures, Paris, 1929 May, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Text of Hyde's remarks, with related correspondence. In French.
Series II. Correspondence with Annie Fitch Hyde, circa 1891-1922, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
This series includes extensive correspondence, predominantly in English, between James Hazen Hyde (most commonly referred to here as "Caleb") and his mother, Annie Fitch Hyde (sometimes referred to here by her telegram name "Einna," which was the name used on the original files). There are a very few letters that are either from Hyde's father, Henry Baldwin Hyde, or include the father's notes added to some of Annie's letters. There are also a few letters to Hyde from his mother's caregivers, Camille (letters in French) and Rippe.
The earliest correspondence preserved in these files is primarily letters from Annie to Hyde. These are generally undated but the context indicates that these largely date from the 1890s while Hyde is away at school. Annie's letters make clear that Hyde routinely wrote to her, and she reciprocated with short affectionate notes about family updates, health, travels, and the like. By about 1899, typed copies of Hyde's letters appear in the files and for the balance of the files, Hyde's outgoing letters predominate, with occasional telegrams from Annie. There is relatively little correspondence for about 1903-1906, but there are many carbon copies of Hyde's letters to his mother from about 1907 to her death in mid-1922. Hyde wrote regularly to his mother, and these letters place on emphasis on noting who he dined or socialized with throughout the week, though the letters seldom mention the substance of conversations at these meetings. Hyde traveled with some frequency and he wrote in some detail about these trips, including those to Singapore, Guatemala, and many locations in Europe and in France. He wrote of lectures he gave, observations during World War I (though, as he notes, these are constrained by the censors), assistance given to the Red Cross during the war, his health, and the growth of his child, Henry. A certain tension surfaces at times in the letters, particularly over financial matters, which include Annie's sales of real estate, Hyde's finances, investments, and their handling of the Henry Baldwin Hyde estate.
Arrangement
The original order of the series was, roughly, reverse chronological. To facilitate use, the documents were rearranged to a chronological order. Undated letters, which are mostly from Annie and are likely from the 1890s-1900s, are in the opening folders. Pins were used extensively by Hyde to connect pages of documents; these were removed during processing so care should be taken during use not to mix the sheets up.
Processing Information
The series was processed by archivist Jennifer Gargiulo.
Correspondence with Annie Hyde (9 of 16 folders), circa 1891-1912, undated, inclusive
Correspondence with Annie Hyde (7 of 16 folders), 1913-1922, inclusive
Series III. Correspondence Concerning Federation de l'Alliance Francaise, 1898-1935 (bulk 1902-1908, 1922-1933), inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
The series includes correspondence concerning the Federation de l'Alliance Francaise aux Etats-Unis et au Canada and related organizations in France and the United States. The correspondence divides between two periods, from about 1900 to about 1915 and from 1921 to 1935. The gap relates to Hyde's relative lack of involvement in the Federation at that time.
For the earlier period, Hyde's correspondence is principally with the officers of the Federation, its affiliated chapters in various cities of the United States, and officers of the sponsoring Alliance in Paris. Much of this earlier correspondence is directed to or from L.V. Gofflot, the Secretary General of the Federation. Among the many correspondents are Felix Weill, J. LeRoy White, L. Fiedler, Henry Cachard, W.H. Perkins, Rene Millet, Camille Thurwanger, A. Bousquet, Maxime Ingres, Henry L. Rippe, F. C. de Sumichrast, Anatole Le Braz, Julien Tiersot, Vicomte G. d'Avenel, Robert Lebaudy, Alcee Fortier, M. Jusserand, George Lamouret, E.H. Goulesque, Frank L. Warren Jr., Camille Gorde, and Henry Bargy. In the later period, the bulk of the correspondence is with the Federation's President Frank Pavey and Secretary General Felix Weill.
The contents are primarily in French, though the later correspondence from Pavey is most commonly in English. The subject matter often concerns plans for lecturers from France to tour America, but administrative, governance, and financial matters are also discussed. The correspondence of 1922 includes reference to the reasons for Hyde reducing his activity in the Federation and his interest in re-engaging at that time.
Arrangement
The documents have largely been left as found by the processing archivist, with some changes. The material was largely ordered in reverse chronological sequence; this remains the case in most instances, though some documents wee re-arranged to a straight chronological order to facilitate use. Many folders originally had what seemed to be several documents of outlying dates; these were smoothed in most cases to focus folders on more narrow time periods. Also, many documents were fastened with pins, but these were removed.
Biographical / Historical
In 1902, Hyde perceived that there were various groups throughout the United States and Canada active in extending the knowledge of French language, literature and art in those countries. He consequently founded an organization linking all these societies together: the Federation of French Alliances in the United States and Canada (Federation de l'Alliance Francaise aux Etats-Unis et au Canada). Among the Franco-American societies affiliated with the Federation, and represented in this collection, was the l'Alliance Francaise de New York. A principal activity of the central organization was bringing French lecturers to tour the countries. Hyde became the first president of the Federation and the secretariat was located in the offices of the Equitable. In 1903, Hyde was succeeded in the presidency by Julian Leroy White of the Alliance Francaise of Baltimore. In subsequent years, with Hyde's departure from the Equitable and the United States, especially after about 1908, he was no longer involved with the Alliance or Federation, though he continued to be involved with cultural exchanges in France. In the early 1920s, new leadership of the Federation, notably President Frank D. Pavey, reached out to Hyde for financial assistance, eventually leading to Hyde's renewed engagement with the organization from 1922 forward.
Processing Information
The series was processed by archivists Jennifer Gargiulo and Larry Weimer.
Correspondence. Alliance Francaise de Paris (4 folders), 1898-1908, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Correspondence to Hyde from the Secretary General and others of the Alliance in Paris.
Correspondence. Federation de l'Alliance (4 folders), 1900-1908, inclusive
Scope and Contents
The first of these three folders holds undated documents, which appear to date from circa 1902-1908. The second folder of the set holds various documents found together by the archivist dating from 1904-1908. The third folder begins the more ordered run of dated documents, starting principally with 1902 (there is one document each from 1900 and 1901).
Correspondence. Federation de l'Alliance (7 folders), 1905-1906, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Among the many correspondents are Frank L. Warren, Jr., Felix Weill, J. LeRoy White, Camille Gorde, L. Fiedler, A. Bousquet, Maxime Ingres, Henry Cachard, W.H. Perkins, Rene Millet, Camille Thurwanger, Henry L. Rippe, F. C. de Sumichrast, Anatole Le Braz, A. Piatt Andrew, Julien Tiersot, Vicomte G. d'Avenel, Coudert Brothers.
Copypress letterbook., 1906-1907 January, inclusive
Scope and Contents
About 500 sheets of outgoing correspondence from Hyde and Gofflot. Correspondent index at back of volume.
Correspondence. Federation de l'Alliance (2 folders), 1907-1915, inclusive
Documents Divers. Federation de l'Alliance (2 folders), 1898-circa 1907, inclusive
Scope and Contents
These two folders hold, among other documents, print matter related to the University of Grenoble's Committee of Patronage of Foreign Students, Alliance Francaise a Cincinnati, Bulletins, lists of lecturers, descriptions of the Alliance, and other documents concerning the Federation de l'Alliance Francaise aux Etats Unis et au Canada and the Cercle Francais de l'Universite Harvard (post-Hyde student years).
Correspondence. Federation l'Alliance (3 folders), 1921-1926, inclusive
Correspondence. Federation l'Alliance (7 folders), 1927-1935, inclusive
Series IV. Diaries, 1922-1940, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
Hyde began maintaining a diary in early 1922, and he continued the practice until 1940 when the Nazis invaded France and he prepared to return to the United States after more than 30 years. Filling 94 loose leaf binders, the diaries' physical bulk consists of newspaper clippings and other print matter from American, French, British, and German publications glued to backing paper, sometimes with Hyde's brief, typed comments. A principal example are obituaries or other articles referring to a person's death; on these, Hyde typically recalled the extent of his relationship with the person, his impressions, and perhaps an anecdote. Threaded throughout the volumes are pages with Hyde's daily journal entries. These are typewritten, and references in the diaries (as well as occasional phonetic misspellings of English words) suggest that they were maintained by Hyde's secretaries at his dictation/direction rather than directly by his hand. The pages of each volume are numbered and many (perhaps all) volumes have an index to their content. The entries are in English, except that Hyde rendered quotations in French when, presumably, that is how he originally heard them, and in cases where Hyde used French to better express himself on a point. The clippings and other print matter are mostly English and French, but there are also a sizable number in German.
Each daily entry extends to no more than two typed pages, and typically they are less than one full page. The general content of the entries is fairly consistent: an outline of Hyde's activities for the day with reference to the names of individuals he dined with, traveled with, attended a cultural event with, or otherwise encountered during the day, and to his physical condition. To these Hyde would commonly add a brief judgment, such as whether a person was pleasant or attractive, conversation interesting or not, the quality of a theatrical performance, museum exhibition, or other cultural event. The range of Hyde's social connections is impressive and includes American, French, British, and German diplomats, politicians, journalists and editors, industrialists and financiers, military officers, art historians and other academics, and individuals from the worlds of classical music and the theatre. Despite the richness of his connections, Hyde is inconsistent at documenting the substance of his many conversations. He documents various anecdotes, gossip, points of history, and other items of interest he hears but these seem lean compared to the settings and individuals involved. He seems most descriptive when discussing visits to museums, performances and other cultural matters. He seems the most reserved in conveying insight into himself, his business/financial matters, and his opinions on geopolitical events. It may be that the intermediation of secretaries, as well as his status as a foreigner living in France and his travels in countries such as Hitler's Germany and Mussolini's Italy, called for discretion in deciding what to dictate and have written down.
Despite its shortcomings, the diaries do trace the experience of a wealthy, knowledgeable American expatriate in France from the years after World War I to the invasion of France early in World War II. Hyde's observations primarily concern geopolitics and culture, flavored with social gossip. Various observations, speculations, opinions about Germany and its relation to France and the rest of Europe are recorded here and there, and become more frequent and darker in the late 1930s, especially during the German annexations in 1938 of Austria and the Sudetenland. In this context, a notable thread that also appears increasingly over time in the diaries is Hyde's identification of individuals who are Jews; this is especially jarring as individuals Hyde often interacts with in the diaries (e.g., Hans Tietze) are suddenly referenced in that light.
Hyde frequently attends the opera and theatre, and even movies, perhaps especially when traveling to Berlin, Vienna, and London. The diaries include many of the programs he collected at these performances. The stage actors Sacha Guitry and Yvonne Printemps appear frequently in Hyde's diary and there are some programs from their performances of Guitry's plays.
In processing the diaries, the archivist skimmed Hyde's entries and attempted to identify any particular items of interest in the folder level scope notes below. The absence of any note at the folder level simply indicates that the above summary likely captures the general content of that volume. The folder level scope notes also outline when Hyde was traveling outside France; they do not necessarily document his travel within France or within a country he visited. The scope notes attempt to identify entries with some biographical significance concerning Hyde. These notes were developed within time constraints and so patrons should not rely exclusively on them.
Arrangement
The diaries are in their original chronological order, by volume. For conservation reasons, the diary pages were removed from the original binders and placed in archival folders. The folders, as presented in the container list, retain the content structure of the original binders, most of which were discarded. A few of the original binders were retained as examples and these are noted in the container list.
Immediate Source of Acquisition
Gift of James Hazen Hyde, September 1948.
Processing Information
The volumes were inventoried by intern Aaron Roffman; contents removed from the original binders and foldered by archival intern Alec Ferretti; and descriptive notes added by archivist Larry Weimer.
Diary, 1922 January-May (with original binder), 1922, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Among others, records meetings with Ambassador Herrick, Count Bertrand d'Aramond, Norwegian minister de Wedel-Jarlsberg, General Mangin, Andre Tardieu, Marshal Foch, Hughes Le Roux, former Ambassador Wallace, French minister Sarraut, financier Andre Benac (who tells an anecdote concerning Benac's view of what sparked the start of World War I), embassy counsellor Sheldon Whitehouse, Adolph Ochs. Travels to Spain in April-May, and records in detail conversations, art, impressions while traveling largely with the Bynes.
Diary, 1922 June-December (2 folders), 1922, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Summarizes his meeting with Georges Clemenceau (October 14), primarily concerning advice on Clemenceau's upcoming trip to the U.S.
Diary, 1923 January-March (2 folders), 1923, inclusive
Scope and Contents
In reaction to the death of Sarah Bernhardt, Hyde recalls her performances and his occasional meetings with her. Includes a letter from Associated Press journalist Joseph E. Sharkey with his typed article as submitted about Andre Tardieu, acknowledging that it was the outcome of a dinner with Hyde.
Diary, 1923 April-July (2 folders), 1923, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Includes summaries of discussions with Mortimer Schiff (of Kuhn, Loeb) and Ivy Lee about the economic situation in Europe, specifically an Austrian loan (Lee returns to the loan in detail in the diary for March 22, 1924). Includes a page of Vogue magazine that has a photo of Mrs. James Hazen Hyde and her son (page 136 of the diary).
Diary, 1923 August-October (2 folders), 1923, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Appointed Grand Officer of French Legion d'Honneur.
Diary, 1923 November-December (2 folders), 1923, inclusive
Diary, 1924 January-February (2 folders), 1924, inclusive
Diary, 1924 March-April (2 folders), 1924, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Recounted a story regarding antique furniture owned by a friend, which was taken by Germany and subsequently returned to its owners multiple times.
Diary, 1924 May-June (with original binder), 1924, inclusive
Diary, 1924 June-September (2 folders), 1924, inclusive
Diary, 1924 October-December (2 folders), 1924, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Traveled to Egypt and along the Nile wth Cook's Service, beginning in November. Visits the camp of Professor Reisner of Harvard with Madame Foucard, as well as several other ancient sites. Comments on the restrictions placed on foreign archeologists by the Egyptian government. Also visits the president of American University and others, and makes observations about the culture, architecture, military, politics, etc. The account of the trip continues in the next two diaries.
Diary, 1925 January-February, 1925, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Account of Hyde's visit to Egypt continues for this entire diary. On February 3, he meets with Professor Breasted who explains his process for photographing and documenting the hieroglyphics found (he meets with Breasted on later dates in the diary as well). Includes typescripts of letters from Ronald Storrs writing from Jerusalem seeking support for a cultural center that would unite peoples across the region's religions. On February 10, Hyde describes his meeting with King Fouad I.
Diary, 1925 March-April, 1925, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Hyde's Egyptian trip ends in early March. He goes to Italy, where he briefly meets the Pope in Rome (March 25); he returns to Versailles by early April.
Diary, 1925 May-July, 1925, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Page 47 of the diary is a supplement to the European edition of the New York Herald that includes some photos of Hyde's Paris residence.
Diary, 1925 August-October, 1925, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Attended the exhibition of Decorative Arts at least three times and is impressed with its beauty and influence.
Diary, 1925 November-December (with original binder), 1925, bulk
Scope and Contents
Traveled to Geneva, visited the League of Nations. Commented that Switzerland itself was a difficult country to govern due to it being home to a multitude of cultures and languages. Traveled on to Italy, specifically Milan and Rome. Begins to think that Germany can remain stable, however the disposition of Mussolini in Italy would lead to civil war.
Diary, "Supplement Coupures," October 1924-April 1926, 1924-1926, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Contains only newspaper clippings (in French) with little commentary and no diary entries.
Diary, 1926 January-March, 1926, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Attended a meeting for the committee of the statue commemorating the battle of the Marne, which included the sculptor MacMonnies. Ambassador Herrick also attended, and Hyde recounts favorable anecdotes Herrick told about Aristide Briand. Includes a letter from Franz Boas requesting financial support for the Emergency Society for German and Austrian Science and Art.
Diary, 1926 April-June (2 folders), 1926, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Travels to London for an extended stay. Has dinner with the American ambassador, Lady Astor, and many others. Visits theatres, museums, private collections, and shops for artworks. His diary about the trip extends briefly into July, in the next volume.
Diary, 1926 July-November (2 folders), 1926, inclusive
Scope and Contents
See also the following diary, which includes out-of-sequence pages for early July when Hyde was in London.
Diary, 1926 July, November-December; 1927 January, 1926-1927, inclusive
Scope and Contents
This diary holds the early weeks of July 1926, when Hyde was still in London, then jumps to November 1926. The gap months are in the previous volume. Travels to Genoa from late November to mid-December; this trip appears to be centered primarily on cultural visits. Afterward he goes to Rome, where his visit is the usual mix of politics, geopolitics, economics, culture, etc.; describes at length a pontifical mass he attended (December 31, 1926). On December 26, he dines with Countess Matuschka, who appears several times in later entries; she is likely the Countess he marries in 1930.
Diary, 1927 February-May (2 folders), 1927, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Account of trip to Rome continues to March; has glimpse of Mussolini on horseback and has a favorable impression.
Diary, "Voyage Londres" 1927 May-July, 1927, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Travels to London in mid-May and is there throughout this diary.
Diary, 1927 August-December (with original binder), 1927, inclusive
Scope and Contents
London trip ends at start of diary, on August 2.
Diary, 1928 January-March, 1928, inclusive
Diary, 1928 March-May, 1928, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Traveled to Berlin with side trips to Potsdam, begining April 12. Saw a "speaking cinema," went to the theatre, visited cultural sites and museums, shopped for artwork. Among others saw Friedlander, Kahn, Breasted, Wiegand. Makes reference to Berlin being a "paradise" for Jews (page 358 of the diary).
Diary, 1928 June-August, 1928, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Account of his trip to Berlin continues; leaves Berlin on June 25, stopping in Baden-Baden before arriving back at Versailles on July 16.
Diary, 1928 September-November, 1928, inclusive
Diary, 1928 November-1929 January, 1928-1929, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Includes many clippings (one with a photograph) concerning Hyde's receipt of the Grand Croix of the Legion of Honor.
Diary, 1929 January-February (with original binder), 1929, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Looked at past philosophical works, including Voltaire. Did not enjoy their works as a form of poetry, but understood this was contemporary writing for the 18th century.
Diary, 1929 March-April, 1929, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Travels to the Riviera for March and into mid-April. Extensive clippings on the death of Ambassador Myron Herrick, a major presence in Hyde's diaries.
Diary, 1929 May-July, 1929, inclusive
Diary, 1929 July-October, 1929, inclusive
Scope and Contents
On September 28, Hyde spends the day with Countess Matuschka, who tells him of some of her experiences during the years of World War I. She appears in several entries around this time. The diary includes a copy of the program for Guitry's "Histoires de France" performed at the Theatre Pigalle.
Diary, 1929 November-December (1 of 2 folders), 1929, inclusive
Scope and Contents
In November, visits Wiesbaden, Mainz, Frankfurt, Cologne, and elsewhere in Germany (at least in part with Herbert Haseltine and Raymond Recouly); makes several observations about German-French relations in the Rhineland and military matters, as well as cultural visits. On the occasion of Clemenceau's death, Hyde records various personal and second hand recollections of the former prime minister.
Diary, 1929 November-December (1 of 2 folders), 1929, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Substantive summary of Hyde's meeting with Minister of the Interior André Tardieu (December 5), principally concerning French-German relations, and Hyde's first meeting with and advice to the new US Ambassador, Walter Edge (December 18). In reaction to a newspaper piece recalling Henry Frick's death in 1919, Hyde expresses bitterness about Frick in relation to the "Equitable row."
Diary, 1930 January-March (with original binder), 1930, inclusive
Diary, 1930 April-June, 1930, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Hyde travels to Germany, including Frankfurt, Dresden, Nuremberg, and Munich, beginning on April 14 and continuing through the entire volume. Initially meets with French General Guillaumat who believes there will be another war with Germany, which is building a military superior to that of France. Most of the entries concern visits to private collections, museums, and residences.
Diary, 1930 July-September (2 folders), 1930, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Hyde's travels in Germany continue, in Munich, ending late July; he visits collections there with Countess Matuschka.
Diary, 1930 October-November, 1930, inclusive
Scope and Contents
In October, the Countess Matuschka visits Hyde in Versailles, seeing his house for the first time; on October 28, a passing reference to his engagement to her. A couple of related clippings (with pictures) at page 101-102.
Diary, 1930 December, 1930, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Includes Hyde's entry of December 8, the day of his wedding to Ella Matuschka; includes clippings, some with photos of the couple at the wedding, with Andre Tardieu.
Diary, 1931 January-February, 1931, inclusive
Diary, 1931 March-May, 1931, inclusive
Diary, 1931 June-August (2 folders), 1931, inclusive
Scope and Contents
On June 15, Hyde travels to begin a trip to London, returning to France in early July. On June 16, notes his decision to write a letter of separation from his wife, Ella, who is in Italy.
Diary, 1931 September-October, 1931, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Travels to Berlin and Potsdam beginning September 30, with Raymond Recouly for much of the trip, ending on October 21. Some individuals he visits voice negative views on the situation in Germany, referring to the Nazis, anti-Semitism, and the financial conditions. He saw a shop in Berlin where silk stockings were mounted on a wax nude figurine, rather than on legs only, and he found this indecent. He describes at length a play by Karl Heinz Martin he sees in the communist quarter of Berlin and comes away impressed.
Diary, 1931 November-December, 1931, inclusive
Scope and Contents
On December 1, meets the King of Spain at the Chateau de Champs with Dr. Hensler, Cahen d'Anvers, and others.
Diary, 1932 January-February, 1932, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Includes a panoramic night photo of Harvard across the water (page 49). Includes a photo of Hyde at the Institut d'Aix en Provence, February 18 (page 170).
Diary, 1932 June-August, 1932, inclusive
Scope and Contents
There is no diary in the collection for March-May 1932. This diary begins in June with Hyde traveling in Germany, until late June. Citizen's arriving late to an opera led to the belief that Germany had lost its sense of discipline since the Reich's takeover.
Diary, 1932 September-October, 1932, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Includes clippings, program, ephemera, and entries concerning the dedication of Frederick MacMonnies's Marne monument (early-mid September). Hyde is married for a third time, on October 8, to Mme. Thome (commonly referred to as "T" or "Tommie" in the entries). On October 17, they travel to London.
Diary, 1932 November-December, 1932, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Includes a "listes conferences et articles" from 1913-1918 by Hyde. Hyde's and his wife's visit in London continues, returning to France in early December.
Diary, 1933 January (with original binder), 1933, inclusive
Diary, 1933 February, 1933, inclusive
Scope and Contents
On February 7, Hyde learns of the suicide of Henry Rippe, his "confidential secretary and friend" and "last link with my American business friends."
Diary, 1933 March, 1933, inclusive
Diary, 1933 April-May, 1933, inclusive
Diary, 1933 June-August, 1933, inclusive
Scope and Contents
On August 17, Hyde dines with [Joseph] Duveen, among others, and recounts an anecdote told by Duveen of why he bought a picture at a Christie's auction from the Lord Baltimore collection at a price higher than its value.
Diary, 1933 September-October, 1933, inclusive
Scope and Contents
On September 30, Hyde and his wife ("Tommie") travel on the Orient Express, arriving in Austria, especially Vienna. They are there for the rest of the diary. Among other activities (mostly cultural), they visit various churches and other cultural institutions, often with art historian Hans Tietze. Among the programs in the diary from this trip are those from the Wiener Philharmoniker (featuring Arturo Toscanini) and from the Burgtheater (featuring Richard Beer-Hofmann's Faust).
Diary, 1933 November-December, 1933, inclusive
Scope and Contents
The Hydes's trip to Austria continues. On November 22, they travel to Berlin. They return to Paris on December 9. Hyde takes his son, Henry, now age 18, to the American Consulate to formalize Henry's intention to declare himself an American citizen.
Diary, 1934 January, 1934, inclusive
Scope and Contents
On January 22, Hyde's son is in a car accident in England, but survives. Hyde meets with Sato, the Japanese ambassador to France.
Diary, 1934 February, 1934, inclusive
Diary, 1934 March (with original binder), 1934, inclusive
Scope and Contents
The diary opens with a "memorandum" concerning the convention of 1932 between the U.S. and France on double taxation; the memo is dated "Paris, February 26, 1934" but its authorship is unattributed. The memo is in English, with a shorter French version. On March 3, Hyde visits Finance Minister Germain Martin at the request of American ambassador Straus; he summarizes the separate exchanges he had with Straus and Martin. On March 29, Hyde goes to Berlin with Helfer and Frank.
Diary, 1934 April-May, 1934, inclusive
Scope and Contents
The Hydes's trip to Germany continues, through April 23, when they travel on to Czechoslovakia and Prague. On April 29, Hyde meets with President Masaryk. Leaves Czechoslovakia on May 19 for Poland (Cracow/Krakow and Warsaw). Left for Berlin on May 31 at the diary's close.
Diary, 1934 June-August, 1934, inclusive
Scope and Contents
The diary opens in Berlin, but the trip ends on June 7.
Diary, 1934 September-October, 1934, inclusive
Scope and Contents
The Hydes begin a trip to London on October 29.
Diary, 1934 November-December (2 folders), 1934, inclusive
Scope and Contents
The Hydes trip to London continues until December 7.
Diary, 1935 January-February, 1935, inclusive
Diary, 1935 March-April, 1935, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Hyde travels to Berlin on March 11, meeting and traveling with Hensler for part of the time there. He traveled on to Budapest on April 8 and Vienna on April 20.
Diary, 1935 May-June (with original binder), 1935, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Hyde's visit to Austria continues; his wife, Tommie, joins him from Paris on May 6. Handwritten documents, in German, from conductor Carl von Alwin at May 12 and June 4. Includes an extended summary of Hyde's conversation over supper with Ambassador Messersmith on May 24. On May 30, Hyde travels with Tietze to Linz and the surrounding area; along the way presumably Tietze (the name is cut out of the diary) tells Hyde of the increasing police power in Austria; later travels with Tommie in Salzburg and other parts of Austria. Arrives in Munich on June 13, then returning to Paris on June 17.
Diary, 1935 July-August, 1935, inclusive
Scope and Contents
On August 18, Hyde receives notice that the German art historian Erwin Hensler died; Hensler appears frequently in Hyde's entries during his trips to Germany and here Hyde reflects on Hensler.
Diary, 1935 September, 1935, inclusive
Scope and Contents
On September 16, Hyde meets with General Charles Sherrill, who had met with Hitler as arranged by the German ambassador Koster (see September 17). Sherrill voiced optimism about Germany, noting everyone seemed prosperous under Hitler's regime. Hyde disagrees, but appreciates "the propaganda value of dictators."
Diary, 1935 September-November, 1935, inclusive
Scope and Contents
The diary opens on September 27, with Hyde traveling to Munich, where he visits Dr. Berliner, among others. On October 5, he goes on to Vienna, where he remains, traveling in the area, for the balance of the diary.
Diary, 1935 December, 1935-1936, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Hyde leaves Vienna on December 3 for Berlin (Tommie joins him there on December 12), where he remains for the balance of the diary. On December 21, Hyde is given a tour by Otto Meyer of the stadium and other buildings for the upcoming Olympics.Whether out of discretion or other reason, Hyde's entries for this trip seem to avoid almost all topics but cultural matters.
Diary, 1936 January, 1936, inclusive
Scope and Contents
The Hydes's trip to Berlin continues. A typescript of a letter to Hyde from Ambassador William Dodd is included at January 7, conveying a sense of potential danger to Germans who accept invitations from Dodd. On January 16, sees more of the Olympics facilities with Otto Meyer.
Diary, 1936 February, 1936, inclusive
Scope and Contents
The Hydes continue in Germany. Attends the "Horse Show" (VII. Internationales Reit-Und Fahrturnier); the program is in the diary. On February 6, visits the Harnack Haus (illustrated booklet included in diary). On February 7, is given a tour of Dahlem by Dr. von Cranach, who points out the building in which poison gas was invented; Hyde observes Cranach smiling as he said it. The Hydes left Berlin for Paris on February 25. At the back of the diary is a draft and corrected draft of a document "Impressions de Voyage," in French and presumably written by Hyde upon his departure from Germany.
Diary, 1936 March-April, 1936, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Diary includes the last day of February and May 1 in addition to the core March-April pages. Includes the checklist for the 1936 annual exhibition of the Cercle de l'Union Artistique. On March 11, Hyde met with Ambassador Straus and "left him some notes," possibly those found in the February 1936 diary. At page 93 are two original letters from Arthur Popham Pope, one to Hyde and the other to Mrs. Hyde, commenting at length on the European situation.
Diary, 1936 May, 1936, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Met with friend who had returned from Italy and was enthusiastic about its state after meeting with Mussolini.
Diary, 1936 June-July, 1936, inclusive
Scope and Contents
On June 4, Hyde takes the Orient Express to Vienna. On June 26 he goes to Semmering, Austria, for a few days before returning to Paris on July 3. At page 90, there is typescript of a letter from Louis Germain Martin (in French).
Diary, 1936 August-September, 1936, inclusive
Scope and Contents
At page 81, includes a handwritten poem from the Alwyns to the Hydes; written on stationery of Pavillon de l'Ermitage at Versailles. On September 3, Hyde finds in old files lists of the directors of the various companies he was involved with in the United States (lists are in the diary at page 95); these include American Surety Company, Commercial Trust Company of Philadelphia, Equitable Life Assurance Society, Metropolitan Opera Company, New Theatre, and several others. There are several clippings, programs, etc. related to the celebration of Harvard's 300th anniversary.
Diary, 1936 October-November, 1936, inclusive
Scope and Contents
The Hydes travel to Vienna on October 1 where they remain throughout this diary.
Diary, 1936 December-1937 January (1 of 2 folders), 1936-1937, inclusive
Scope and Contents
The Hydes continue in Vienna. Stayed until December 21, when they left for Munich.
Diary, 1936 December-1937 January (1 of 2 folders), 1936-1937, inclusive
Scope and Contents
On January 1, the Hydes leave Munich for Berlin where they stay for this diary.
Diary, 1937 February-March, 1937, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Visit in Berlin continues. On February 8, Hyde met General Goering at a dinner at the French Embassy. Tommie left for Paris on February 14, but Hyde remained behind. On February 28, Hyde attends the Opera Ball, which Goering also attends. Hyde returns to Paris on March 4.
Diary, 1937 April-May, 1937, inclusive
Diary, 1937 June-July, 1937, inclusive
Diary, 1937 August-October (with original binder), 1937, inclusive
Scope and Contents
The diary opens with the Hydes apparently attending the dedication of the American Meuse-Argonne War Memorial (program included), then traveling to Austria and Germany, starting in Salzburg and Munich; returns to Paris on August 24. (This diary begins a new form of binder for the documents, which was used for the balance of the volumes; the first three original binders were retained as examples, with the remainder removed to folders.)
Diary, 1937 November-December (with original binder)
Scope and Contents
On November 1, Hyde travels to Munich with Helfer, Perrot and Frank, then on to Vienna on November 4; Tommie joins Hyde on December 6.
Diary, 1938 January-February (with original binder), 1938, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Visit to Vienna continues until February 1 when the Hydes go to Berlin.
Diary, 1938 March-April (2 folders), 1938, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Hyde and his wife, Tommie's, travels in Germany continue. Goes to the Reichstag on March 19 to hear Hitler and Goering. Tommie returns to Paris in late March while Hyde goes on to London where he makes his typical rounds of embassies, social engagements, and cultural events, including going with Raymond Recouly to see "Nine Sharp" at the Little Theatre, among several others (programs included). On April 1, he attends a lunch given by the Foreign Press Association at which Viscount Halifax provides two anecdotes by way of illustrating the "English character." Tommie rejoins him in London in mid-April. The diary includes a picture postcard postmarked (with swastikas) from Austria featuring a drawing of Hitler. Hyde has meetings with Count Colleredo-Mansfield whose life in Austria has been ruined by the Nazis but is uncertain whether to return there or not.
Diary, 1938 May-July, 1938, inclusive
Scope and Contents
The Hydes continue in London. On May 10, attends a gala perfomance of the ballet at the Sadler's Wells Theatre, given in the Queen's presence (program included). The Hydes return to Paris on May 18. On May 20, Hyde meets with architect Patrice Bonnet who seeks to build a musical center at Versailles; Hyde provides counsel as to the geopolitical implications of his plans. The King and Queen of England visit France on July 22 and Hyde describes some of the related events; the diary includes a related program and an identification card with photograph of Hyde.
Diary, 1938 August-November (2 folders), 1938, inclusive
Scope and Contents
In August, Hyde stayed at Aix-les-Bains for health reasons. On August 9, Hyde has lunch with a Reverend Pere Gillet who describes the Pope's anger with the pro-Nazi attitude of Austrian cardinal Innitzer, who explains it as related to Hitler's promise of special treatment to Austrian and German Catholics. On August 19, he meets with French ambassador to the U.S. Comte de Saint-Quentin and Hyde documents various anecdotes he hears related to American-German relations. Hyde's sister dies and he attends her funeral in Paris at the American Cathedral on September 9. On September 16 sees the film "Jeunesse Olympique" and bemoans the contrast between nations working together on sports, but not in other realms. On September 30, Hyde meets with Hugo Burghauser who explains he escaped from Austria with only his musical instruments and clothes, and is headed for New York. As the Czechoslovakia situation intensifies, France begins to mobilize for war; workers appear at Hyde's home in Versailles to plan defensive trenches. On October 23, has lunch with Hans Tietze and his wife who left Austria just before the Anschluss and are also heading for the U.S.
Diary, 1938 December-1939 February (2 folders), 1938-1939, inclusive
Scope and Contents
The Hydes go to Cannes and the French Riviera in January. Visit Tardieu's new home at Menton on February 2 and provide description of it; the menu of their lunch is included.
Diary, 1939 March-April (2 folders), 1939, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Hyde travels to the Netherlands(the Hague, Amsterdam, Leeuwarden, etc.) beginning in mid-April, motors with Sarah Benton, visits bookdealers, antiquarians, and museums. On April 27, Hyde rides a diesel-electric train of the Netherlands Railways; diary includes itinerary, train description, and 3 photographs.
Diary, 1939 May-June (2 folders), 1939, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Hyde's trip to the Netherlands continues until about May 6, primarily visiting art museums.
Diary, 1939 July-August (2 folders), 1939, inclusive
Scope and Contents
On July 4, a newspaper article about an 1874 kidnap victim, Charley Ross, causes Hyde to recall that the event had created fear at the time in Hyde's father and "poisoned" Hyde's youth. On July 6, attends and describes Sacha Guitry's fourth wedding (invitation in diary). On July 13, meets with Pierre Verlet of the Louvre, who will be cataloging Hyde's collection on the four parts of the world. July 19 includes a transcription of a letter and related obituary Hyde received from Naomi DesVernay regarding the death of her husband, William, an African-American who apparently worked for Hyde around 1900 and had expressed admiration to his wife about Hyde. On July 28, the Hydes travel to Geneva and elsewhere in Switzerland. On July 30 visits the Palais de la Societe des Nations and comments positively on the building. Had meetings with archaeologist Arthur Evans who was staying in the same hotel. On August 3, Hyde documents his visit with Henry de Rothschild. Hyde returns to Paris on August 23, noting that the German-Russian treaty will "complicate the situation which is already bad enough." August 24 includes a notice from the American Embassy advising American citizens to return to the U.S. In the following days, members of Hyde's household staff are mobilized for war and leave.
Diary, 1939 September-November (2 folders), 1939, inclusive
Scope and Contents
France declares war on Germany and Hyde discusses the mobilization, his concerns about his exposure at his home in Versailles, his attempts to make himself useful as during World War I, and other matters related to the opening of the war, though he continues his walks, social rounds, lunches at the Ritz, visits to the cinema, etc. During this time, John Jay Ide is staying as a guest at Hyde's home in Versailles. On September 22 he meets with Lefeuvre, formerly of the French Embassy in Berlin, who described the departure of the staff from the embassy. On November 3, Hyde notes "War is a very fatiguing and depressing affair," which captures the general tone of many of his entries at this time.
Diary, 1939 December-1940 February (2 folders), 1939-1940, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Traveled to Switzerland (Bern) beginning January 10, returning on February 3, expressing comfort with being back with the French Army and Maginot Line. On February 6, sees the film "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington," which he likes.
Diary, 1940 March-April (with original binder) (2 folders), 1940, inclusive
Scope and Contents
March 21 includes a carbon copy of a letter from a Dean to E.B. Close of the American Hospital of Paris regarding the American Hospital's and the Red Cross's plans for relief in France. On March 28, sees the "Jewish propaganda film" Apres Mein Kampf les Crimes and provides an extended critique and impressions of key scenes. At page 168 is a carbon copy of a memo from Paul Azan of the Comite Militaire Franco-Finlandais titled "L'Action en Scandinavie"; numbered as 30 and dated March 15; the memo is updated by number 51 dated April 6, also here, and number 54 dated April 19 (at page 212). 10 sheets total, all in French. On April 11, Hyde meets with his lawyer, Robinson, to finish his new will. The diaries end at April 30, a few weeks before the German invasion of France.
Series V. Cercle Francais and Other, Related Scrapbooks, 1894-1905, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
The series includes seven scrapbooks concerning the Cercle Francais de l'Universite Harvard, one concerning the Alliance Francaise, one that has documents concerning both organizations, and one that relates to the visit of Harvard professor Barrett Wendell to France in 1905. The Cercle scrapbooks range from Hyde's entry in the club in 1894 to the end of his active involvement with it upon his departure for France in 1905. The first five Cercle scrapbooks, through 1900, are especially rich with correspondence and other documents reflecting Hyde's deep involvement as an energetic officer of the club and as the financial source for the annual lecture series he instituted in 1898. After 1900, the Cercle scrapbooks are mostly clippings with some ephemera. Nonetheless, the Cercle scrapbooks provide rich documentation of the organization's activities for the years they cover, notably in the expansion of the Cercle under Hyde from a local club catering to its members to one having a national and international reputation and impact. In addition to documentation of the lecture series, including the national reach of the lectures, the scrapbooks document the annual plays performed by the Cercle. Later years include images of the casts in costume. The scrapbooks do not hold any official records of the Cercle, such as meeting minutes or financial reports.
The one volume of material concerning the Alliance Francais includes mostly clippings for the years 1900-1903, but there is also informative program lists and other ephemera related to the Alliance's activities for the first few years of its existence. The Barrett Wendell scrapbook holds primarily clippings with some ephemera.
Immediate Source of Acquisition
All but the scrapbook concerning the Alliance Francaise were a gift of James Hazen Hyde in April 1947. The Alliance Francaise scrapbook was a gift from Hyde in October 1948, along with related correspondence (see Series III).
Processing Information
The series was processed by archivist Larry Weimer.
Cercle Francais de l'Universite Harvard Scrapbook (Vol. 1), 1894-1898, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Includes, among other subjects, extensive documentation (correspondence, meeting transcript, legal opinions) concerning the 1897 conflict between the Cercle (i.e., Hyde) and Professor F.C. de Sumichrast, and Sumichrast's resignation as member and officer of the club. This event led to Hyde, then Vice-President, becoming President of the Cercle and the manner of his assertion of its independence of the Harvard French Department. Includes documents related to Hyde's creation of a $30,000 trust fund for lecturers, and the appearance of the first speaker, René Doumic, funded by the trust.
Cercle Francais de l'Universite Harvard Scrapbook (Vol. 2), 1898, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Includes, among many other subjects, a November 15 letter from Adolphe Cohn to Hyde describing the founding and early years of the Cercle (1886-89). Includes documents related to Hyde's activism as president at attempting to expand the Cercle's reputation nationally and internationally; these include correspondence with Ferdinand W. Peck, the Commissioner-General for the United States to the Paris Exposition of 1900, requesting space for the Cercle Francais at the U.S. exhibit.
Cercle Francais de l'Universite Harvard Scrapbook (Vol. 3), 1899, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Among many other subjects, Hyde's efforts to have the Cercle represented at the 1900 Paris Exposition draw in U.S. Senator Thomas Platt and gain ground. Includes documentation of Edouard Roy's visit to the U.S. (Roy was the second lecturer funded by Hyde), including photographs of Roy on board a transatlantic steamer and the steamer's arrival (or departure). References to the Alliance Francais begin to appear in this volume as do Hyde's efforts to encourage the creation of other Cercles at other universities, including University of Pennsylvania.
Cercle Francais de l'Universite Harvard Scrapbook (Vol. 4), 1899, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Includes, among many other subjects, arrangements for the third lecturer funded by Hyde, Henri de Régnier. Hyde gets approval for the Cercle to be represented at the Paris Exposition; the scrapbook includes correspondence related to the arrangements.
Cercle Francais de l'Universite Harvard Scrapbook (Vol. 5), 1900, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Among other subjects, extensive clippings concerning the visit of Henri de Régnier to the U.S. Includes the cover page of "The Underwriter" insurance trade journal, featuring a profile photo of Hyde in connection with his appointment to the Legion of Honor; also many related clippings.
Cercle Francais de l'Universite Harvard Scrapbook (Vol. 6), 1900-1901, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Among other subjects, clippings related to the Cercle's medal-winning exhibit at the Paris Exposition, including an image of it from the press. Clippings related to Gaston Deschamps, the fourth lecturer funded by Hyde.
Cercle Francais de l'Universite Harvard Scrapbook (Vol. 7), 1901-1903, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Among other subjects, clippings related to the fifth lecturer funded by Hyde, Hugues Le Roux. Later pages of the scrapbook also include clippings related to Hyde's activities with the Alliance Francaise.
Cercle Francais and Alliance Francaise Scrapbook, 1898-1905, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Includes various documents related to the five lecturers selected and funded by Hyde in 1898-1902(René Doumic, Edouard Roy, Henri de Régnier, Gaston Deschamps, Hugues Le Roux), including itineraries, lecture topics, university contacts for lecture arrangements, publicity, and cabinet card photographs of Roy, Régnier and Deschamps. Includes similar documents for lectures arranged by Hyde under the auspices of the Federation de l'Alliance Francaise aux Etats-Unis in 1903-1905; lecturers represented are Leopold Mabilleau, André Michel, Anatole Leroy-Beaulieu, Vincent de Wierzbicki, Robert Dupouey, René Millet, and Frantz Funck-Brentano.
Alliance Francaise Scrapbook (Vol. 1), 1900-1903, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Clippings, membership lists, constitution and by-laws, invitations, lists of programs, and other ephemera. The circumstances of Hyde's election as president in 1902 are described in some English language clippings. (The binder refers to this as Volume 1 for the Alliance Francaise, but there are no other such volumes in the collection.)
Barrett Wendell Scrapbook, 1905, inclusive
Scope and Contents
Primarily clippings concerning the lectures in Paris of Harvard Professor Barrett Wendell. Also, an advertising piece for a performance of Barrett's play "Raleigh in Guiana." There are also a few Alliance Francaise documents in the scrapbook related to governance and Hyde's voting proxy.
Series VI. Legion of Honor Letter Books, 1921, 1923, 1928, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
7 bound volumes of cards and letters sent to Hyde upon his promotions within the French government's Legion of Honor (Légion d'honneur). Volumes 1 and 2 include letters from 1921 when Hyde was promoted to the rank of Commander (Commandeur). (He had first been elected to the Legion as a Chevalier in 1900.) Volumes 3 and 4 include letters from 1923 when Hyde was promoted to Grand Officer (Grand officier). Volumes 5-7 include letters from his promotion in 1928 to Grand Cross (Grand-croix). Volume 5 includes a letter and artwork from artist Ferdinand Bac. Most letters are in French, a few in German.
Arrangement
The volumes are in original order and binding. Within each set of volumes (1921, 1923, 1928), the letters are in alphabetical order by correspondent.
Immediate Source of Acquisition
Gift of James Hazen Hyde, April 24, 1957 (transmittal letter for donation is inside front cover of Volume 1).
Processing Information
The series was processed by archivist Larry Weimer.
Letter Books, Volumes 1-4, 1921, 1923, inclusive
Letter Books, Volumes 5-7, 1928, inclusive
Series VII. Henry Baldwin Hyde Memorial Books, 1874, 1894, 1899-1900, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
The series includes six oversize bound volumes of condolence letters and related documents in connection with the death of Henry Baldwin Hyde in 1899. Most of the letters appear to be from agents and others associated with the Equitable in the United States and abroad. The contents of the volumes are:
Volume I: Opens with a photograph of H.B. Hyde and a few photographs of the casket at the funeral (held at Fifth Avenue Presbyterian) and of the entrance to the Equitable building. Documents that follow include the text of Rev. Van Dyke's eulogy; Board resolutions from the Equitable and other companies/organizations regarding Hyde's death; text of speech by agent Joseph Bowes at an agents convention in July on the subject "What Mr. Hyde Has Done for the Life Insurance Agent"; telegram cables from agents, employees and insurance industry; and calling cards. In addition there is an extract of minutes from the January 1874 Equitable Board meeting with remarks concerning the death of Henry H. Hyde; an 1894 letter from Chauncey Depew to Henry Baldwin Hyde with complimentary remarks; and a 1900 letter to James Hazen Hyde from the Chamber of Commerce thanking him for a portrait of his father.
Volume II: Includes condolence letters addressed to Mrs. Hyde; these are in alphabetical order, with correspondents A-S in this volume.
Volume III: Conclusion of letters addressed to Mrs. Hyde. These are followed by letters addressed to James Hazen Hyde, correspondents A-J. Isabella Gardner and William James are two notable names that appear.
Volume IV: Continues with condolence letters addressed to James Hazen Hyde, correspondents K-S. Notable names are: Adolph Ochs of the New York Times writes of Hyde's support for him and the newspaper; U.S. senator T.C. Platt regrets he cannot attend the funeral; and George B. Post responds to Hyde's request for a meeting to discuss a monument to his father.
Volume V: Concludes the letters addressed to Hyde, correspondents S-W. Following these are condolence letters addressed to the principal officers of the Equitable (e.g., James Alexander, William McIntyre).
Volume VI: Concludes the letters addressed to Equitable officers (e.g., George P. Wilson, William Alexander). Includes on page 469 a copy of the outgoing letter Wilson sent to a few correspondents in which he discusses Hyde's final illness.
Conditions Governing Access
Volume I is exceptionally oversize and heavy, requiring two people to transport it to the Reading Room. Accordingly, a confirmed appointment is needed to view the volume in order that transport arrangements can be made.
Immediate Source of Acquisition
Gift of James Hazen Hyde, January 17, 1946
Processing Information
The series was processed by archivist Larry Weimer.
Memorial Book, Volume I, 1874, 1894, 1899, 1900, inclusive
Conditions Governing Access
Volume I is exceptionally oversize and heavy, requiring two people to transport it to the Reading Room. Accordingly, a confirmed appointment is needed to view the volume in order that transport arrangements can be made.
Memorial Book, Volume II, 1899, inclusive
Memorial Book, Volume III, 1899, inclusive
Memorial Book, Volume IV, 1899, inclusive
Memorial Book, Volume V, 1899, inclusive
Memorial Book, Volume VI, 1899, inclusive
Series VIII. Photographs and Certificates, circa 1880s-1953, inclusive
Extent
Scope and Contents
The series includes a small number of photographs and three certificates. The photographs include one by Peter A. Juley & Sons of an 1859 solicitation letter from Henry Baldwin Hyde requesting that the recipient purchase an insurance policy of the still being formed Equitable; three of Hyde on horseback or in carriages (1899-1903); one of Hyde as a boy in carriage with father in front of their Bay Shore, L.I. home (oversize); one of Henry Baldwin Hyde taken by Pirou of Paris (oversize, circa 1900); five of paintings of Hyde's father (Henry Baldwin Hyde, one oversize), mother (Annie Fitch Hyde), and grandfather (Henry Hazen Hyde); one of the exterior of Hyde's house in Paris when used as Hopital Auxiliaire 79 during World War I; and Hyde in New York with the president of Equitable and the pastor of Fifth Avenue Presbyterian (1950s). There are also photocopies of other photos of carriages; the originals of at least some of these can be found in the Department of Prints, Photographs and Architectural Collections' Subject File (PR 68) under the category "TRANSPORTATION - VEHICLES - CARRIAGES AND COACHES."
Certificates include: diploma from Harvard (1898), diploma from Princeton (1903), commission as Inspector at rank of Captain from American National Red Cross (1918), Foreign Service Certificate from the Red Cross for work as aide to the Commissioner to France from September 1917-February 1919, and recognition from Harvard for Hyde's efforts in promoting relations between Harvard and French universities (1923).
Immediate Source of Acquisition
The items in the series were donated at varous times in the 1940s-1950s by Hyde. The specific dates are noted on the back of most of the items. Items dated 1960 were donated by Hyde's estate.
Processing Information
Hyde's (and his estate's) donations of photographs and certificates were separated at the time and placed in various library collections based on format and content. During processing in December 2019, archivist Larry Weimer recovered some of these materials and placed them with the Hyde papers. These included two folders of photographs that had been in the general Portrait File and five certificates from the general Certificate File.