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University of Chicago Library

Guide to the Ryerson Family Papers 1803-1971

© 2006 University of Chicago Library

Descriptive Summary

Title:

Ryerson Family. Papers

Dates:

1803-1971

Size:

11 linear ft. (18 boxes)

Repository:

Hanna Holborn Gray Special Collections Research Center
University of Chicago Library
1100 East 57th Street
Chicago, Illinois 60637 U.S.A.

Abstract:

Contains the papers of Joseph Turner Ryerson, Edward L. Ryerson Sr., and Edward L. Ryerson Jr. Includes correspondence, family histories, articles, speeches, clippings, diaries, a scrapbook that includes photographs of the Chicago fire of 1871, photographs, awards and memorabilia. Papers document three generations of one of Chicago's most prominent families active in the city's business, cultural, and civic organizations. Subjects include the growth of the family's steel company, Joseph T. Ryerson & Son; life in Chicago; the University of Chicago; the Chicago Symphony; the Lyric Opera of Chicago; and WTTW-Channel 11. Correspondents include Norman Cousins, Richard J. Daley, Everett M. Dirksen, John Foster Dulles, Albert Einstein, Herbert Hoover, Richard Nixon, Adlai Stevenson, and Frederick Stock.

Information on Use

Access

Access to the Ryerson Family Papers is granted only with permission from George A. Ranney. Jr.

Citation

When quoting material from this collection, the preferred citation is: Ryerson Family. Papers, [Box #, Folder #], Hanna Holborn Gray Special Collections Research Center, University of Chicago Library

Biographical Note

The history of the Ryerson family in Chicago began when twenty-nine year old Joseph Turner Ryerson (1813-1883) arrived in the city on November 1, 1842. The youngest of ten children, Joseph Ryerson had been educated at the Quaker Classical and Mathematical Schools in Philadelphia. At the age of seventeen he took a position as a clerk in a business firm and his training in business continued until he decided to go west in 1842. His first Chicago venture was a joint one with the son of an old Philadelphia acquaintance, but Joseph soon bought out his partner, and the hardware firm of "Blaikie & Ryerson" became "J. T. Ryerson." Joseph married Ellen Larned in 1848 and his business prospered until his warehouse and stores, as well as all his family's personal property, were destroyed in the 1871 Chicago Fire. In the post-fire years, he reestablished his business with considerable success. He also devoted himself to recording the history of his family, particularly the life of his father, Thomas Ryerson (1754-1832), whose memoirs had been destroyed in the fire. Thomas Ryerson had fought in the Revolutionary War, then engaged in West Indian trade, initiated the settlement of Western Pennsylvania under the auspices of Robert Morris (financier and delegate to the Constitutional Convention) and established a successful hardware business in Philadelphia.

Edward L. Ryerson, Sr. (1854-1928) was the youngest son of Joseph and Ellen Ryerson. He was educated in Chicago and at Yale University. In 1876, immediately after graduation, Edward joined the family firm, henceforth known as "J. T. Ryerson & Son, Iron Merchants and Special Agents." Since his brother Arthur had chosen law as his profession, Edward assumed primary responsibility for the growth of the family business after his father's death. In 1879 Edward married Mary Pringle Mitchell, daughter of Donald Grant Mitchell (1822-1908) the noted New England essayist and lecturer who wrote under the name of "Ik Marvel." Edward Ryerson continued his father's interest in family history and was prominent in a number of civic organizations. He died in 1928.

Edward Ryerson, Jr. (1886-1971) was born in Chicago, and educated at the Hill School and at Yale University where he studied mechanical engineering. His marriage to Nora Butler took place in 1914. During World War I he served in the Signal Corps with the rank of Captain. He had entered the family firm in 1909 and, upon the death of his father in 1928, he and his brothers Joseph and Donald assumed the leadership of J. T. Ryerson & Son, Inc. In 1935 the business merged with the Inland Steel Corporation.

Although he derived satisfaction from his business activities, Edward Ryerson, Jr. took an equal interest in public affairs and at one time considered adopting the latter as his career. In fact, he actively pursued both civic and business obligations until his retirement allowed him to devote the major portion of his time to the former. During the Depression he was appointed chairman of the first Illinois Public Aid Commission, and was for many years actively involved with the Welfare Council of Chicago. He served on the governing boards of The University of Chicago, the Chicago Historical Society, and the Chicago Symphony Orchestral Association.

Edward Ryerson, Jr. retired from business in 1952, but remained active in public affairs. He was one of the founders of Chicago's national educational television stations, WTTW, in 1953. That same year he was elected chairman of the Board of Trustees of The University of Chicago, where he had been a member since 1923; he held this position until 1956. During his tenure as chairman the University held its crucial Development Campaign of 1955-56.

Long active in Republican politics, Edward Ryerson, Jr. was appointed by President Eisenhower to the President's Board of Consultants on Foreign Intelligence Activities. In 1958 he led a delegation of steel industry executives on a tour of the steel industry in the U.S.S.R. sponsored by the American Iron and Steel Institute. His interest in the growth of the steel industry in America was expressed in his support for projects to preserve historic sites connected with the development of that industry, principally the first iron works that had been established in this country at Saugus, Massachusetts, and Ringwood Manor in New Jersey.

Carrying on the family tradition, he wrote his autobiography, The Ryerson Chronicle 1886-1964. He was the recipient of numerous honorary degrees from institutions, which included Yale University and The University of Chicago, and Inland Steel named one of its ore vessels, "S.S. Edward Ryerson." He died in 1971.

Scope Note

The Ryerson Family Papers document three generations of one of Chicago's most prominent families. In addition to maintaining a position of leadership in the city's business community since the mid-nineteenth century, members of the Ryerson family have been active participants in Chicago's civic and cultural life. Their remarkable sense of family identity and continuity, strongly reflected in the autobiographical writings of various family members, has generated a record that reflects not only the personal activities of this distinguished family but also illuminates significant aspects of more than one hundred and twenty years of Chicago history.

The organization of the collection follows a generational and chronological schema. Box 1, Folders 1-3 contain three miscellaneous manuscripts ca. 1803-1839 handed down from Ryerson and Larned ancestors. Box 1, Folder 4-Box 2, Folder 4 are devoted to the correspondence, manuscripts, and memorabilia of Joseph Turner Ryerson and his immediate family. Box 2, Folder5-Box 2, Folder 4 primarily concern his eldest son, Edward L. Ryerson, Sr. while Box 3, Folder 5-Box 14 contain the papers of Edward L. Ryerson, Jr. Box 16 is followed by several scrapbooks, photographs, and a collection of books relating to the Ryerson family. A complete inventory follows this scope note.

The papers of Edward L. Ryerson, Jr., comprise the largest part of this collection of Ryerson family records. The correspondence, news-clippings, and speeches contained in Box 3, Folder 5-Box 14 reflect Edward Ryerson's activities and interests ca. 1915-1971. Among the earliest documents are family letters addressed to him during World War I; the major portion of the papers date from 1953-1971 and most fully record the years of his retirement. Among Edward Ryerson's correspondents are Fairfax Cone, Normal Cousins, Richard J. Daley, Everett M. Dirkson, Walt Disney, John Foster Dulles, Albert Einstein, Richard Nixon, Alfred E. Smith, Adlai E. Stevenson, Frederick Stock, and Robert A. Taft.

A detailed listing of the correspondence between Joseph Ryerson, his wife Ellen, and his sons, Edward and Arthur, is given in the inventory. In addition there are a few business letters addressed to Joseph Ryerson, miscellaneous articles which he published under his pen name "Mercator," genealogical notes, a diary, and an inventory of household belongings made after the Fire which also includes a brief account of that event. Photographs of the Ryerson home at 83 Cass Street as well as other miscellaneous photographs follow Box XVI.

Joseph Ryerson's "Record of Joseph Turner Ryerson's Family," begun in 1877, includes an account of the Ryerson lineage, from the first Ryersons who settled in America in the seventeenth century, to his immediate family, his own autobiography, the lineage of the Larned family, an account of Joseph's business and philanthropic interests and a description of the wedding of his son Edward in 1879. The volume also includes a short sketch of her parents by Ellen Larned Ryerson; news clippings, circulars, invitations, and family photographs. This work, a genealogical and autobiographical scrapbook in a single volume, was followed in 1880 by "Joseph T. Ryerson's Recollection of His First Journey From Philadelphia to Chicago and the North West, Impressions of the City and the Countryside." [An abridged version of these "Recollections" was published in Chicago Yesterdays edited by Caroline Kirkland, Chicago: 1919.]

Joseph Ryerson's "Record" provides a first-hand account of the training and subsequent career of a mid-nineteenth century businessman; a description of the hazards and pleasures of cross-country travel during this period; impressions of Chicago during its "boom" years with descriptions of the city's cultural, intellectual, and social life (including a discourse on its climate and topography) and an account of the Chicago Fire of 1871. Joseph Ryerson's "Recollections" provides a more detailed narrative of Chicago's early years. [Typescript copies of portions of these two works are included in the collection.]

The manuscripts and memorabilia in Box 2, Folder 5-Box 3, Folder 4 include a small amount of family correspondence, genealogical notes and essays, and a few items relating to Donald Grant Mitchell.

Of particular interest are the works of Joseph Ryerson's son, Edward Ryerson, including his autobiography, "The Ryerson Record-Third Generation," his paper on the history of the J. T. Ryerson Corporation after 1883 [written in 1904 and revised in 1913], and his family scrapbook. The autobiography includes recollections of the Chicago Fire of 1871 (he was sixteen at the time), an account of the expansion of the family business, and mention of his activities in the Chicago Commons, the Chicago School of Civics and Philanthropy, the Newberry Library, and St. Luke's Hospital. The scrapbook contains a typescript copy of the "Record," family photographs and memorabilia; among the latter is a transcript of the testimony at the inquest into the death of Arthur Ryerson who went down on the Titanic in 1912. Edward Ryerson's interest in family history led him to sponsor the publication of Albert W. Ryerson's The Ryerson Genealogy in 1916.

Information for the years prior to 1915 will be found in Edward Ryerson's autobiography and in the autobiography of his brother Joseph [Box 9]. The collection also includes a phonograph recording of the May 13, 1954 meeting of the Board of Trustees of The University of Chicago at which time the University announced plans for its 1955-56 Development Campaign.

Related Resources

The following related resources are located in the Department of Special Collections:

http://www.lib.uchicago.edu/e/spcl/select.html

Subject Headings

INVENTORY

Series I: Ryerson Family Papers

Box 1   Folder 1

Deed of land to Richard Ryerson, March 7, 1803

Box 1   Folder 2

John Ryerson to Ann Van Auken [née Ryerson], July 13, 1839, ALS, 1 p

Box 1   Folder 3

John Smith Larned to Lucinda Larned, January 9, 1839, ALS, 3 pp

Series II: Papers of Joseph Turner Ryerson

Box 1   Folder 4

General Correspondence

  • J. T. Ryerson to Pierce and Whaling, March 1 [1876], ALS, 1 p
  • Pierce and Whaling to J. T. Ryerson, March 23, 1876, ALS, 1 p
  • Robert H. Baker to J. M. Whaling, March 23, 1876, ALS, 2 pp
  • Charles B. Dean to J. T. Ryerson, July 16, 1876, ALS, 4 pp
  • Alfred B. Mason to J. T. Ryerson, February 20, 1878, ALS, 1 p
Box 1   Folder 5

Family Correspondence

  • J. T. Ryerson to Ellen L. Ryerson, June 9, 1875, ALS, 6 pp
  • J. T. Ryerson to Ellen L. Ryerson, July 14, 1875, ALS, 4 pp [typescript copies included]
Box 1   Folder 6

Family Correspondence

  • J. T. Ryerson to Arthur Ryerson, n.d., ALS, 8 pp
  • J. T. Ryerson to Arthur Ryerson, October 3, 1872, ALS, 12 pp
  • J. T. Ryerson to Arthur Ryerson, November 7, 1878, ALS, 4 pp
  • J. T. Ryerson to Arthur Ryerson, November 28, 1878, ALS, 8 pp
  • J. T. Ryerson to Arthur Ryerson, June 1, 1881, ALS, 2 pp
  • J. T. Ryerson to Arthur Ryerson, September 30, 1881, ALS, 3 pp
  • J. T. Ryerson to Arthur Ryerson, May 6, 1882, ALS, 8 pp
  • J. T. Ryerson to Arthur Ryerson, June 1, 1882, ALS, 1 p
  • J. T. Ryerson to Arthur Ryerson, July 28, 1882, ALS, 2 pp
  • J. T. Ryerson to Arthur Ryerson, August 13, 1882, ALS, 12 pp [typescript copies included]
Box 1   Folder 7

Family Correspondence

  • J. T. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, Sr., n.d., ALS, 16 pp
  • J. T. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, May 31, 1879, ALS, 3 pp
  • J. T. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, December 7, 1877, ALS, 1 p
  • J. T. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, October 19, 1876, ALS, 2 pp
  • J. T. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, March 25, 1876, ALS, 16 pp
  • J. T. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, November 11, 1875, ALS, 2 pp
  • J. T. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, October 20, 1875, ALS, 6 pp
  • J. T. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, October 15, 1875, ALS, 6 pp
  • J. T. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, May 5, 1875, ALS, 16 pp J. T. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, March 25, 1875, ALS, 4 pp
  • J. T. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, October 4, 1873, ALS, 4 pp
Box 1   Folder 8

Family Correspondence

  • J. T. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, Sr., December 7, 1875, ALS, 2 pp
  • J. T. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, Sr., December 21, 1875, ALS, 1 p
  • J. T. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, Sr., June 19, 1876, ALS, 8 pp
  • J. T. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, Sr., May 31, 1879, ALS, 4 pp
  • J. T. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, Sr., June 30?, 1881, ALS, 4 pp
  • J. T. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, Sr., June 30?, 1881, ALS, 3 pp
Box 1   Folder 9

Family Correspondence

  • Ellen L. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, Sr., n.d., ALS, 2 pp
  • Ellen L. Ryerson and J. T. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, Sr., September 18, 1873, ALS, 4 pp
  • Ellen L. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, Sr., April 26, 1874, ALS, 4 pp
  • Ellen L. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, Sr., February 1, 1875, ALS, 4 pp
  • Ellen L. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, March 9, 1875, ALS, 4 pp
  • Ellen L. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, March 12, 1875, ALS, 3 pp
  • Ellen L. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, October 28, 1875, ALS, 4 pp
  • Ellen L. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, March 29, 1876, ALS, 4 pp
  • Ellen L. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, May 23, 1876, ALS, 4 pp
  • Ellen L. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, December 11, 1879, ALS, 4 pp
  • Ellen L. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, n.m., 1880, ALS, 2 pp
  • Ellen L. Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, June, n.d., 1880, ALS, 4 pp
Box 1   Folder 10

Manuscripts

  • Ellen L. Ryerson, "The Romance of History," AD, 22 pp
  • Writings of Joseph T. Ryerson
Box 1   Folder 11

Articles and notes [some of the articles are signed with JTR's pen name

  • "Mercator"]
  • "What's the Matter?", December, 1877, AD, 21 pp
  • "Free Trade and Protection," December, 1877, AD, 9 pp
  • "Means to an End," n.d., AD, 9 pp
  • "Gold and Silver...," n.d., reprint [2 copies]
Box 1   Folder 12

Diary, January 1-April 28, 1880

Box 1   Folder 13

Notes on Ryerson family history and genealogical chart

Box 1   Folder 14

"New of Goods, Chattels and Household Effects Belonging to J. T. Ryerson and Family, since October 9, 1871," Holograph, 71 pp [including blank pages]. Bound Volume

Box 1   Folder 15

"Joseph T. Ryerson's Recollection of His First Journey From Philadelphia to Chicago and the North West, Impressions of the City and the Country-side, February 1, 1880," Holograph, 74 pp Bound Volume

Box 1   Folder 16

Biographical Documents

  • "Record of Joseph Turner Ryerson's Family" [and other writings] , Chicago, August 8, 1877. Holograph, 387 pp, Bound Volume Contents;
  • "Record of Joseph Turner Ryerson's family," pp 3-147 [includes family photographs]
  • Untitled biography of JTR's parents, as well as the history of Ellen Larned
  • Ryerson's family, pp 151-220
  • "Recollections of E[llen] L[arned] R[yerson]," pp 221-225
  • JTR's account of his business and philanthropic interests; to which is appended a short account of his son Edward's wedding in 1879, pp 238-244
  • Scrapbook ca. 1871-1879, pp 300-387 [includes news clippings, circulars, invitations, photographs kept and annotated by JTR. Among the photographs are some of the Chicago Fire of 1871]
Box 2   Folder 1

"Joseph T. Ryerson's recollection of his first journey from Philadelphia to Chicago and the North West, impressions of the city and the countryside, February 1, 1880." Typescript copy, bound, 57 pp

Box 2   Folder 2

"Record of Joseph Turner Ryerson's family," Chicago, August 8, 1877. Typescript copy, bound, 143 pp [with annotations by Arthur Ryerson]

Box 2   Folder 3

"Record of Joseph Turner Ryerson's family," Chicago, August 8, 1877. Typescript copy, unbound in loose-leaf binder with introductory note by Edward L. Ryerson, Sr.

Box 2   Folder 4

"Family Record of Capt. Thomas Ryerson, Philadelphia, Pa., 1754-1832," excerpt from "Record of Joseph Turner Ryerson's family." Typescript, bound, 11 pp

Series III: Papers of Edward L. Ryerson, Sr

Box 2   Folder 5

Correspondence

  • Agnes R. Crandall to Arthur Ryerson, January 27, 1879, ALS, 4 pp
  • Hermon B. Butler to Edward L. Ryerson, Sr., March 8, 1884, ALS, 5 pp
  • Edward L. Ryerson, Sr. to Hermon B. Butler, March 20 [1884], letter book copy, 7 pp
  • Arthur Ryerson to Edward L. Ryerson, Sr., November 5, 1896, TLS, 1 p
  • See also the Edward L. Ryerson, Sr. scrapbook
Box 2   Folder 6

Schanck, G. S., "History of the Ryerson Family 1650-1873" copied and with an introduction by Arthur Ryerson, holograph, 1873.

Box 2   Folder 7

Biographical sketch of Mary Mitchell Ryerson, holograph, 28 pp

Box 2   Folder 8

Donald G. Mitchell miscellany

Box 2   Folder 9

Biographical and genealogical notes preserved by Edward L. Ryerson, Sr.

Box 2   Folder 10

Biographical and genealogical notes preserved by Edward L. Ryerson, Sr.

Box 2   Folder 11

Biographical and genealogical notes preserved by Edward L. Ryerson, Sr.

Box 2   Folder 12

Ryerson Family photographs

Box 2   Folder 13

Paper on the history of the J. T. Ryerson Corporation written for his family by Edward L. Ryerson, Sr. July 26, 1904; revised June 18, 1913. Two typescript copies

Box 3   Folder 1

Edward L. Ryerson, Sr., drafts of chapters of "The Ryerson Record..." typescript with holograph corrections and insertions

Box 3   Folder 2

Edward L. Ryerson, Sr., drafts of chapters of "The Ryerson Record..." typescript with holograph corrections and insertions

Box 3   Folder 3

Edward L. Ryerson, Sr., Drafts of chapters of "The Ryerson Record..." typescript.

Box 3   Folder 4

Edward L. Ryerson, Sr., "The Ryerson Record-Third Generation" [ca. 1920], typescript, bound, 61 pp

Series IV: Papers of Edward L. Ryerson, Jr.

Subseries 1: General Correspondence

Box 3   Folder 5

  • All-Chicago Citizens' Committee-Army Distaff Foundation, Inc.
  • Adler, Mortimer J., See Kenyon College
Box 3   Folder 6

Bereolos, Phyliss-Brown, James, IV

Box 3   Folder 7

Carnegie Institute of Technology-Cousins, Norman

Box 3   Folder 8

Chicago Historical Society

Box 3   Folder 9

Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association, General

Box 3   Folder 10

Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association, History

Box 3   Folder 11

Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association, Edward L. Ryerson, Jr.'s annual messages to members during his tenure as president

Box 3   Folder 12

Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association, Christmas Cards; social events

Box 3   Folder 13

  • Council for Economic Growth and Security, Inc.
  • Daley, Richard J., See All-Chicago Citizens' Committee
  • Dirkson, Everett M., See Jesuit Council
Box 3   Folder 14

Disney, Walt-Dulles, John Foster

Box 3   Folder 15

Einstein, Albert-Episcopal Church Foundation

Box 3   Folder 16

Eisenhower, Dwight and Mamie

Box 3   Folder 17

Fine Arts Quartet-Goodwill Industries

  • Great Books of the Western World, See Kenyon College
Box 4   Folder 1

Fulbright Exchange Program

Box 4   Folder 2

Great Chain at West Point

Box 4   Folder 3

Harris, Albert-Hulse, Mainard

Box 4   Folder 4

Hilliard, Raymond

Box 4   Folder 5

Hoover, Herbert

Box 4   Folder 6

Illinois Council for Branch Banking-Insull, Samuel, Jr

Box 4   Folder 7

Illinois Public Aid Commission

Box 4   Folder 8

Jesuit Centennial-Lovett, Robert A.

Box 4   Folder 9

Kenyon College

Box 4   Folder 10

Loyola University, Damen Award

Box 4   Folder 11

Lyric Opera of Chicago

Box 4   Folder 12

McElroy, David-Mueller, Esther

Box 4   Folder 13

National Citizens' Committee for Public Television-Nixon, Richard

Box 4   Folder 14

Oldberg, Eric-Rosenthal [Benjamin J.] Charities

Box 4   Folder 15

Political-Republican National Committee

Box 4   Folder 16

Republican Party Miscellaneous

Box 4   Folder 17

Republican Party Miscellaneous

Box 4   Folder 18

Lincoln Academy of Illinois

Box 4   Folder 19

United Republican Fund of Illinois

Box 4   Folder 20

President's Board of Consultants on Foreign Intelligence Activities

Box 4   Folder 21

Protestant Foundation of Greater Chicago

Box 5   Folder 1

Ringwood Manor, New Jersey

Box 5   Folder 2

Ripon College

Box 5   Folder 3

Rotary Club Award

Box 5   Folder 4

Russia, miscellaneous speech material

Box 5   Folder 5

Russia, news clippings

Box 5   Folder 6

Russia, news clippings

Box 5   Folder 7

Russia, news clippings

Box 5   Folder 8

Ryerson [Edward L., Sr.] Traveling Fellowship in Architecture

Box 5   Folder 9

Sanberg, Thomas-Sudler, Louis

Box 5   Folder 10

Saturday Review

Box 5   Folder 11

Saugus, Massachusetts, Iron Works Association

Box 5   Folder 12

Saugus, Massachusetts, Iron Works Association.

Box 6   Folder 1

Saugus, Booklets

Box 6   Folder 2

Saugus, Attwill, Jr. Sanger

Box 6   Folder 3

  • Saugus, Rose, George S.
  • Stevenson, Adlai E., See Illinois Public Aid Commission
Box 6   Folder 4

  • Stock, Frederick
  • Terkel, Studs, See WTTW-Channel 11]
Box 6   Folder 5

S. S. Edward Ryerson

Box 6   Folder 6

Tass-Thompson, Georgianna

Box 6   Folder 7

Ungerman, Charles-Y.M.C.A.

Box 6   Folder 8

University of Chicago, General, 1932-1958

Box 6   Folder 9

University of Chicago, General, 1959-1966

Box 6   Folder 10

University of Chicago, Edward L. Ryerson, S. Archaeology Fellowship Endowment

Box 6   Folder 11

Yale University

Box 6   Folder 12

WTTW-Channel 11

Box 6   Folder 13

Welfare Council of Metropolitan Chicago

Box 6   Folder 14

Williams College

Subseries 2: Personal and Family Records

Box 7   Folder 1

Correspondence to Edward L. Ryerson, Jr. from his family during World War I

Box 7   Folder 2

Military correspondence; Edward L. Ryerson, Jr.'s discharge

Box 7   Folder 3

Report of the Activities of the propeller Section by Lt. Sibley and Paper read by Edward L. Ryerson, Jr. before the Society of Industrial Engineers on Some Phases of Aircraft Production

Box 7   Folder 4

Astor Street House deeds and title, 1890-1919

Box 7   Folder 5

Astor Street correspondence regarding purchase

Box 7   Folder 6

Astor Street party wall agreement

Box 7   Folder 7

Chambers, Walter, "After Marten Ryerse; The story of an American family."

Box 7   Folder 8

Original "exhibits" for Edward L. Ryerson's "Chronicle"

Box 7   Folder 9

Brief biographical notes on Edward L. Ryerson, Jr.

Box 7   Folder 10

Biographical sketches of Edward L. Ryerson, Jr., corrections

Box 7   Folder 11

Miscellaneous biographical data on Edward L. Ryerson, Jr.

Box 7   Folder 12

Who's Who and other biographical publications

Box 8   Folder 1

Ryerson genealogical notes collected by Edward L. Ryerson, Jr.

Box 8   Folder 2

News clippings re Edward L. Ryerson, Jr.

Box 8   Folder 3

News clippings re Edward L. Ryerson, Jr.

Box 8   Folder 4

News clippings re Edward L. Ryerson, Jr., resignation from the America First Committee, 1941

Box 8   Folder 5

Obituary notices

Box 8   Folder 6

Edward L. Ryerson, Jr.'s appointment books 1865-1971

Box 9   Folder 1

Notebook; Structures, Volume II, 1908, bound volume

Box 9   Folder 2

Edward L. Ryerson, Jr., The Ryerson Chronicle 1886-1964, privately printed, 1964, bound volume, 95 pp +

Box 9   Folder 3

Joseph R. Ryerson, II, "Personal Recollections of Joseph Turner Ryerson, 1880-1947," typescript, bound volume, 205 pp

Subseries 3: Manuscripts and Notes

Box 9   Folder 4

  • Debate before the Western Efficiency Society, June 25, 1915
  • Conference of States, "Tomorrow's Children," 1930, notes
  • Church Club Dinner, February 2, 1931, notes
  • Chicago Daily News, "Ryerson voices Plea for usual Welfare Work," November 17, 1931
  • Chicago Dentists' Association, 1932
  • Emergency Relief Board, 1932, notes
  • Council of Social Agencies of Chicago, Annual Meeting, January 21, 1932
  • The Chicago Assembly of the Hamilton Club of Chicago, "The Welfare Problem for Chicago," March 3, 1932, notes
  • School Children's Act, April 16, 1932, notes
  • Evanston Charities, May 5, 1932, notes
  • R.F.C., September 23, 1932, notes (Probably Relief Fund of Cook County)
  • Rotary Club "Vote the Emergency Relief Bond Issue," October 11, 1932
  • R.F.C., October 27, 1932, notes
  • Statement for The Diocese, Christmas Issue, December, 1932
  • National Committee of the 1933 Mobilization for Human Needs, "1933 Mobilization for Human Needs," 1933
  • "Years for Courage," January 31, 1933
  • "Interim Report" (before Council of Social Agencies?), 1933, notes
  • Recreation and Camping Institute Dinner, April 28, 1933, notes
  • Letter to Chicago Tribune in reply to editorial of September 15, 1933 "Practical Relief", draft
Box 9   Folder 5

  • Junior League, "Division of Responsibility of Social Work Between Tax Supported Bodies and Private Agencies," October 30, 1933, notes
  • "Christmas Message," November 27, 1933
  • J. T. Ryerson & Sons, Inc., Sales Meeting, "Looking Forward to 1934," December 29, 1933
  • The Survey, LXX;1, January, 1934, "Out of the Depression"
  • Council of Social Agencies, Annual Meeting, "The Private Agency; A Summary and a Prophecy," January 25, 1934
  • Union League Club, "The Social Agencies and Youth," May 18, 1934, notes
  • Board of Directors of the Child Welfare League of America, October 5, 1934
  • "Messages" (from unidentified periodical), December, 1934
  • J. T. Ryerson & Sons, Inc., "What will the Trend of Business be in 1935?" December, 1934
  • "Notes of a Talk before Annual Meeting of the Council of Social Agencies," January, 1935
  • Jewish Charities of Chicago, Annual Meeting; Address by Ryerson, January 27, 1935, stenographic report
  • Winnetka Community Chest, February 20, 1935
  • University of Chicago; Chapel Talk, March 3, 1935
Box 9   Folder 6

  • Community Fund; Address, November 29, 1935, text of radio broadcast
  • Women's City Club, Evanston, October 15, 1935, notes
  • Council of Social Agencies, Annual meeting, January 23, 1936, notes
  • Community Fund, Pittsburgh, Pa., "Public Relief and Private Charity," February 10, 1936
  • Junior Association of Commerce, "Civic Responsibility," March 9, 1936, notes
  • New York Life Meeting, May 6, 1936
  • Milwaukee Community Fund (?), "Public Relief and Private Charity," October 11, 1936, notes
  • American Institute of Steel Construction, "Market Problems of Structural Steel," October 29, 1937
  • Council of Social Agencies; Annual Meeting, January 1, 1938, notes
  • Infant Welfare Society of Chicago, "What Shall We Do About It," February 2, 1938, notes
  • Newspaper clipping, "Looking Forward," ca. 1939
  • Inland Steel Co., Blowing in of No. 5 Blast Furnace, January 3, 1939, notes
  • Illinois Children's Home and Aid Society, Address, January 23, 1939
  • Association House, "Looking Forward in the Light of the Past 48 Years," May 15, 1939
  • National Conference of Social Work, "Amateurs and Professionals," June 20, 1939
  • National Conference of Social Work, "Joint Financing of Private Social Work in Chicago," June 21, 1939
  • New York Herald Tribune, "Big Business Against War," October 26, 1939
  • Tribute to Theodore Thomas, January 4, 1940
  • Springfield Community Fund, Dinner Address, January 31, 1940
  • The Layman's Magazine, "A Business Man's Religion," February 1940, interview
  • St. Andrew's Cross, draft of article, February 20, 1940
  • Industry-Institution of Peace, Forum sponsored by Chicago Daily News and Illinois Federation of Women's Clubs, "Industry and Individuals," March 6, 1940
  • University of Chicago; Address, April 29, 1940
Box 10   Folder 1

  • Wall Street Journal, draft of article, May 14, 1940
  • American Iron and Steel Institute, "Commercial Problems of the Steel Industry," May 23, 1940
  • Association of Iron and Steel Engineers; Address, September 26, 1940
  • North Shore Country Day School, "What Should We Do," January 28, 1941
  • "The Church and Social Work Today," March 20, 1941
  • "Production and Distribution of Steel and the Public Interest," May 14, 1941
  • Statement for the Daily Metal Trade, and several newspapers, May 16, 1941
  • Community Fund of Chicago; Radio talk, October 14, 1941, draft
  • Daily Metal Trade and other papers, Statement, May 13, 1942
  • Personal Efficiency; October 1942, "Success in Everyday Work"
  • Farm Equipment Institute Convention, "the Materials Situation," October 15, 1942
  • WJWC Music of the Masters, Program outline including remarks by Ryerson, October 21, 1942
  • Controlled Materials Plan luncheon; Remarks, December 7, 1942
  • Bulletin of the Chicago Association of Credit Men, Letter of Ryerson, January 12, 1943
  • Radio Address, "McKibbin for Mayor," April 4, 1943
  • Column of M. S. Rukeyser, "Must Scrap all useless War Plants," December 17, 1943, quotes Ryerson
Box 10   Folder 2

  • Executive Program of the University of Chicago, Dinner Meeting, "Problems of Post-war Industrial Management," March 22, 1944
  • Address to graduates of U. S. Naval Training Station, April 10, 1944, notes
  • American Iron and Steel Institute, "Remarks," May 25, 1944
  • Address to the United War Chest of Colorado, June 16, 1944, notes
  • Text of talk for "Your America" broadcast, November 26, 1944
  • Radio interview, "No Hidden Profits," November 20, 1945
  • Chicago Association of Commerce; Conference on Distribution in 1947, "What is the 1947 Market Outlook for Steel?" February 5, 1947
  • Address to Convention of Sheet Metal Contractors' National Association, April 30, 1947 and Clipping of text titled "Future supply of Steel Sheets still Uncertain says E. L. Ryerson of Inland Steel"
  • Address to Gary Chamber of Commerce, May 6, 1947
Box 10   Folder 3

  • "Notes from Speech given at Evanston Council of Social Agencies," May 15, 1947
  • General Meeting of American Iron and Steel Industry, "Public Relations of the Steel Industry," May 22, 1947
  • Newark Community Chest, Remarks, May 23, 1947
  • Address to Cleveland Community Trust, "The Community Trust Idea," June 6, 1947
  • Evansville Community Chest, "Citizenship Responsibility and the Community Chest," October 14, 1947, notes
  • Address to Washington Community Chest, October 20, 1947
  • Address to Detroit Community Trust, December 17, 1947
  • Address before J. L. Ryerson and Sons, Inc. banquet, December 19, 1947, notes San Francisco Foundation, "On the Launching of the San Francisco Foundation," January 1948
  • Address to Youngstown Community Chest, October 12, 1948, notes
  • Address to Greater Boston Community Chest, October 19, 1948, notes
  • Address to Community Chest of Springfield and Sangamon County, January 21, 1949, notes
  • Community Trust Luncheon, Address, January 28, 1949, notes
  • Radio Address, "Facts about the Steel Strike," October 19, 1949
Box 10   Folder 4

  • Address before The Wayfarers, "A Tourist in Africa," November 22, 1949, notes
  • "The Community Trust," December 15, 1949
  • Cincinnati Community Chest, "Freedom within Federation," February 3, 1950
  • Address to American Iron and Steel Industry, May 25, 1950
  • Lane Technical High School, Commencement Address, June 21, 1950, notes
  • American Society for Metals, "Trends in Steel," October 26, 1950
Box 10   Folder 5

Remarks on Wilfred S. Reynolds, December 14, 1950, notes

Box 10   Folder 6

  • "What We Don't Hear in Music," January 16, 1951, notes
  • "A Message from the Orchestral Association," April 4, 1951
  • National Committee on Foundations and Trusts, "Capital Planning for Charity," May 11, 1951
  • Address at Flint, Michigan, June 4, 1951, notes
  • National Business Teachers Association, Annual Meeting, "School and
  • Community Relations in Business Education," December 27, 1951
  • National Committee on Foundations and Trusts, Closing Remarks, May 24, 1952
  • Northwestern University Reviewing Stand, "How Should We Plan for Community Health?" August 10, 1952
  • Register and Vote Radio Program, Script, September 3, 1952
  • National Association of Cotton Manufacturers, 98th Annual Meeting,
  • "Management Thinking and Public Relations," September 25, 1952
  • National Association of Suggestion Systems, "Industry and the Individual,"
  • October 21, 1952
  • Industrial Information Institute, Inc., Address, November 11, 1952, notes
  • At Dallas, "Business and Industry in Community," May 11, 1953, notes
Box 10   Folder 7

  • University of Chicago Round Table, "Senator Taft and the American Political System" Ryerson et. al. August 9, 1953
  • The Trust Bulletin, 33;1, September 1953, "The Community Trust, Corporations, and Family Trusts"
  • Iron and Steel Institute, "Remarks" October 8, 1953
  • Sheraton Plaza, Boston, Educational TV Group; Address, March 16, 1954
  • Iron and Steel Institute; Public Relations Session, "Old Challenges in Steel's Public Relations," May 26, 1954
  • American Hospital Association, "The Hospital's Role in Meeting Public Demands," September 14, 1954
  • Dedication of the Saugus Iron Works Restoration, "An Industry Measures up to its Heritage," September 17, 1954
  • University of Chicago Round Table, "Toward United Giving," Ryerson et. al., December 26, 1954
  • Rockford, Illinois Rotary, "Community Service," January 13, 1955, notes
  • First broadcast of Channel 11, Educational TV, Remarks, September 6, 1955
  • Steel magazine, May 1955, "Directors Gain More Power"
  • Memorial dinner for Samuel A. Goldsmith, Remarks, November 30, 1955
Box 10   Folder 8

  • Chicago Sunday Evening Club, Address, March 4, 1956
  • Article prepared for Community, "The Community Foundation as an Ally," April, 1956
  • Technion (?) "The Role of Industry in Advancing Higher Technical Education, March 18, 1956, notes
  • Inland Stockholders, "Retirement Speech," April 25, 1956
  • University of Chicago Board Meeting, "Statement," June 14, 1956
  • University of Chicago Citizens Board, "Address," June 20, 1956
  • Rochester Rotary, "Corporate and Individual Civic Responsibility," October 2, 1956
  • Public Relations Society of America; Chicago Chapter, "Remarks," October 15, 1956
  • Yale Alumni Convocation, Address, October 19, 1956, notes
  • Chicago Church Federation, "What Chicago Needs Most," February 21, 1957
  • University of Chicago Alumni Magazine, "Statement," March 4, 1957
  • University of Chicago Welfare Council; Directors' Forum, "Financing Needs Service," April 4, 1957, notes
  • Remarks introducing F. Emerson Andrews, May 12, 1958
Box 10   Folder 9

  • University of Chicago, "The School of Social Service Administration," May 13, 1958
  • Union League Club, "Address," July 29, 1958
  • United Fund of Allegheny County, Pittsburgh, Address, August 19, 1958, notes
  • Commercial Club, "The Community Fund," September 9, 1958, notes
  • Rotary Luncheon, "Speech," October 14, 1958
  • Graduate School of Social Work, University of Pittsburgh, Notes for press release honoring H. J. Heinz, II, April 14, 1959
  • Inland Steel; 1959 Annual Meeting Report, Remarks, April 22, 1959
  • American Steel Warehouse Association, "Address," May 6, 1959
  • Lake Forest Academy, "Commencement Address," June 13, 1959
Box 10   Folder 10

  • University of Chicago; Know your Chicago Lecture Series, "Beginnings of Social Welfare in Chicago," October 21, 1959
  • American Association for the Advancement of Science, Address, December 28, 1959, notes
  • Launching of the S. S. Edward L. Ryerson, Comments, January 21, 1960
  • Testimonial Dinner for Ralph H. Blanchard, Remarks, February 4, 1960
  • Institute of International Education; Seminar on Soviet Industrial Technology, Chaired by Ryerson, March 25, 1960
  • Inland News, "Ryerson-Inland Merger," September 1960
  • Onward House, "What Kind of Charitable Organizations do We Have?" September 27, 1960, notes
  • Commerce Magazine, "Guide to a Better Hospital System," November, 1960, reprint
  • Health Insurance Association of America, "Address," May 10, 1961
  • National Association for Crippled Children and Adults, Remarks, May 22, 1961, notes
  • Hospital Planning Council, Introduction of Clifford Hood, November 9, 1961
  • Hospital Planning Council (Chicago), "Remarks," September 27, 1962
  • Acceptance Speech for Damen Award, May 22, 1963
  • University of Chicago; Committee on Corporate Gifts, "Corporate Support of Higher Education," October 22, 1963
  • Chicago Community Trust; 50th Anniversary, Remarks, May 12, 1965
  • Chicago Educational TV Association, "Remarks," October 21, 1965
  • Chicago Educational TV Association' "Report to the Citizens Council on WTTW's 1965-66 year," May 18, 1966
  • Testimonial for Sam Goldsmith, Remarks, June 22, 1966
  • Chicago Commons, Address, April 27, 1967, notes
  • The Commercial Club, Address, September 29, 1970, notes

Series V: Awards and Diplomas

Box 11

To Edward L. Ryerson, Sr. by Yale College [B.A. Degree] 1876

Box 11

To Edward L. Ryerson, Jr. by The Hill School June 14, 1905

Box 11

[Certificate for Scientific Course] Yale University [B.A. Degree] 1908

Box 11

Yale University [M.A. Degree with Honors] Oct. 8, 1932

Box 11

Kenyon College [LL.D. Degree] June 16, 1947

Box 11

Yale Engineering Association [Award for Service to Yale University] May 16, 1962

Box 11

American Iron and Steel Institute [Testimonial] May 27, 1953

Box 11

Hospital Planning Council for Metropolitan Chicago [Testimonial conferring Honorary Status of President Emeritus] June 7, 1962

Box 11

Education Television Stations [Testimonial] 1964

Box 12

Rosenberger Medal presented to Edward L. Ryerson, Jr. 1932

Box 12

The Benjamin J. Rosenthal Charities Medal 1935

Box 12

The Northern Trust Company Nov. 21, 1946

Box 12

Chicago Quarterly Century Club

Box 12

Lane Technical School June, 1950

Box 12

The Gary Memorial Medal 1951

Box 12

The Community Chests and Councils of America 1953

Box 12

The Chicago Merit Award for Distinguished Service 1953

Box 12

City of Chicago Medal of Merit n.d.

Box 13

To Edward L. Ryerson, Sr. by Newberry Library [Memorial] 1928

Box 13

Illinois Merchants Trust Company [Memorial] March 9, 1928

Box 13

St. Luke's Hospital of Chicago [Memorial] June 21, 1928

Box 13

Foundation for Architecture and Landscape Architecture [Memorial] n.d.

Box 13

To Edward L. Ryerson, Jr. by Committee of Chicago Citizens formed for the purpose of expressing appreciation to Edward L. Ryerson, Jr.

Box 13

[Testimonial-Book of letters and resolutions from organizations] 1933

Box 13

The Institute of Medicine of Chicago [Award- Citizen Fellowship] Dec. 5, 1939

Box 13

Ripon College [Doctor of Law Degree] 1948

Box 13

The Chicago Peddlers Club 1951

Box 13

Illinois Welfare Association [Citations for Public Service] Dec. 2, 1945

Box 14

To Edward L. Ryerson, Sr. by Illinois Public Aid Commission, Mar. 4, 1949

Box 14

Northwestern University [Centennial Award] Dec. 2, 1951

Box 14

Williams College [Honorary LL.D.] 1952

Box 14

Inland Steel Company Sales Department [Honorary Salesman] July 1955

Box 14

The University of Chicago [Honorary LL.D.] Dec. 14, 1956

Box 14

Jesuit Centennial [One Hundred Distinguished Chicagoans Citation] Dec. 12, 1957

Box 14

Chicago Council on Foreign Relations 1958

Box 14

Inland Steel Company [Testimonial] Apr. 22, 1959

Box 15

Edward L. Ryerson, Jr. by Joseph T. Ryerson & Son, Inc.

Box 15

[Testimonial] Apr. 22, 1959

Box 15

American Brake Shoe Co. [Testimonial] Apr. 12, 1961

Box 15

Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway Co. [Testimonial] Nov. 27, 1961

Box 15

The Quaker Oats Co. [Testimonial] Sep 12, 1962

Box 15

Loyola University Damen Award [Plaque] May 22, 1963

Box 16

Edward L. Ryerson, Jr. by The Community Trust of Chicago [Testimonial] Dec. 16, 1958

Box 16

Yale University [LL.D. with Highest Honors] June 11, 1962

Box 16

The Welfare Council of Metropolitan Chicago

Box 16

[Service Award] Feb. 17, 1965

Box 16

The University of Illinois Department of Architecture

Box 16

[Distinguished Service Award] Apr. 25, 1969

Box 16

The University of Chicago [memorial] August 12, 1971

Box 16

Inland Steel Company [memorial] August 25, 1971

Box 16

The Chicago Community Trust [memorial] October 1971

Box 16

American Iron and Steel Institute [memorial] November 1971

Box 16

Scrapbooks and Photographs

Box 17

Residence of Joseph T. Ryerson, 83 Cass Street, Chicago, bound volume 14pp (including floor plan, 1st floor)

Box 18

Phonograph recording, meeting of the Board of Trustees of the University of Chicago, May 13, 1954 (5 copies)

Box 18

Testimonial presented to Edward L. Ryerson, Jr., by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, June 17, 1952

Box 18

Phonograph recording of the presentation of the Gary Medal to Edward L. Ryerson, Jr., May 22, 1947

Volume I

Scrapbook, Record of Edward Larned Ryerson, 1915