Finding Aid for Biltmore Estate Forestry Department Manager's Records, Series P |
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Collection Information
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Abstract: Series P of The Biltmore Estate Forestry Department Manager's Records contains business and personal correspondence dated 1895 to 1909, predominately incoming correspondence collected and preserved by George Vanderbilt's Biltmore Estate Forestry Department Office. Copies of outgoing correspondence, presumably letters written by Biltmore Estate Forest Manager, Dr. Carl Alwin Schenck are included. Series P contains a great deal of important correspondence between Gifford Pinchot and Dr. Schenck. There is one copy of a letter to Pinchot from Biltmore Forest School students. These letters date from 1895 to 1908. Pinchot wrote one letter to Dr. Schenck in his roles of President of the Society of American Foresters. More often, Pinchot wrote as Chief of the United States Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Forestry. Later, he became Chief of the United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. Series P also contains letters on Bird and Game laws from Secretary of The Audubon Society of North Carolina, T. Gilbert Pearson. Also included in Series P is a group of 1902 - 1909 letters from J. Girvin Peters to Dr. Schenck. Gifford Pinchot sent Peters to lecture at Biltmore Forest School. Finally, this series contains letters from Overton W. Price. He wrote to Dr. Schenck from 1896 - 1909. Price was a former Biltmore Forest School student who later joined Gifford Pinchot in forestry work.
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Descriptive Summary
Scope and Content NoteLike the other series in the Biltmore Estate Forestry Department Manager's Records, Series P documents the formation of scientific forestry across the world. Series P contains important correspondence between Dr. Schenck and Gifford Pinchot. Pinchot was the first Forestry Manager of the Biltmore Estate and is considered the first American student of scientific forestry. He came to work for the Estate on February 21, 1892 when George W. Vanderbilt hired him upon recommendation by Frederick Law Olmsted. Pinchot was successful in promoting a scientific method and profitable lumbering method in America. He demonstrated his methods at the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago. The exhibit included an educational and publicity pamphlet. He surveyed the land of Pisgah Forest and did the first Biltmore Estate forestry work for George Vanderbilt. Pinchot left the Estate as early as 1896 and was replaced by Dr. Carl A. Schenck, who was hired by Vanderbilt in spring 1895 to take immediate supervision ofthe forestry program. Pinchot was the first Chief of the United States Forest Service. He was President of the Society of American Foresters. Pinchot was later elected governor of Pennsylvania. The correspondence in this Series between Dr. Schenck and Gifford Pinchot ranges in date from 1895 to 1908. The letters reflect how the relationship between these two prominent foresters declined over time. Pinchot and Schenck began to disagree on matters of professional forestry, and by 1903, Pinchot complained that Dr. Schenck's views on forestry were completely opposed to those of the United States Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Forestry. In July of 1903, Pinchot recommend that Biltmore Forest School be closed, due to what he perceived as a lack of professional courses. In later years however, Pinchot sent lecturers to Biltmore Forest School from the U.S.D.A, Bureau of Forestry and the U.S.D.A., Forest Service. Dr. Schenck and Pinchot exchanged writings throughout their time of correspondence. Series P also contains correspondence from T. Gilbert Pearson. These letters range in date from 1898 - 1907. Pearson first corresponded with Dr. Schenck during his work with the North Carolina Geological Survey in Chapel Hill, N.C. He later became Secretary of The Audubon Society of North Carolina. Pearson was instrumental in acquiring a Game Warden for Transylvania County North Carolina. Pearson also wrote to Schenck about the first North Carolina Bird and Game laws, many of which he helped to pass. Also included in Series P are letters from J. Girvin Peters. Peters was a Forest Assistant for the U.S.D.A., Bureau of Forestry. He was sent to Biltmore Forest School by Gifford Pinchot to conduct lectures. In February of 1908, Peters signed letters as the Acting Chief of the U.S.D.A., Forest Service. In February of 1909, he signed correspondence as Chief of the U.S.D.A., Forest Service. The correspondence from Peters to Schenck ranges in date from 1902 to 1909. Finally, Series P contains important correspondence from Overton W. Price. The letters range in date from 1896 - 1909. Price was a student of Biltmore Forest School. In December of 1898 he went to Germany to study with Sir Brandis. Gifford Pinchot hired Price in 1898 for U.S. Government forest work. He corresponded with Dr. Schenck in the following years about hiring Student Assistants from Biltmore Forest School. Like Gifford Pinchot, J. Girvin Peters appears to have been at odds with Dr. Schenck at certain times. Collection OrganizationRecords are filed by correspondent's last name in the case of individual persons. They are filed by company's name for institutions and businesses. It also appears that some clerks preferred to file records by the names of company's managers or agents. Therefore, one organization may be represented in the filing system by several letters depending on the variety of individuals' names within that particular group. In addition, miscellaneous manuscripts are filed in folders carrying a description of the material as a title. Collection ArrangementThe documents have been arranged alphabetically by correspondents' name, and then, chronologically by date. This organization follows the records' original provenance, in that they were first filed in alphabetical order. It appears the original filing system consisted of placing newer records to the front of older ones, thus keeping working material up-to-date. Online Catalog Terms
Related MaterialBiltmore Estate Forestry Department Manager's Records Collection | Series A | Series B | Series C | Series D | Series E | Series F | Series G | Series H | Series I | Series J | Series K | Series L | Series M | Series N | Series O | Series Q | Series R | Series S | Series T | Series U | Series V | Series W | Series XYZ | Series Additional Materials Container ListBox.Folder 28.0001November 19, 1897- A Counsellor at Law wishes to become a forester so that his health may benefit from an outdoor job. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0002June 24, 1905- A recent high school graduate wants to know about entering Biltmore Forest School as a special student. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0003September 10, 1906- Letter to Dr. Schenck from a supervisor and ranger at the Prescott Reserve in Prescott, Arizona. He heard much about Biltmore Forest School through D. D. Bronson, who worked for several months as his assistant. He believed he needed better technical knowledge of forest problems. He wished to take a 12-month's course to make up for his deficiency in technical forestry. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0004June 3, 1901- Application to teach school. May 27, 1907- The Civil Engineer who did a flowage map of Buckhorn Falls and drew the map of Highland Forest in Jackson County, N.C., wishes to apply for a job. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0005July 14, 1899- Letter to Dr. Schenck from Paul Payne, Superintendent of Oakland Heights in Asheville, N.C. Includes two fliers listing both eating and drinking chocolate from Peter's Fine Milk Chocolate of Vevey, Switzerland. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0006August 7, 1907- Piedmont Directory Company offers 1908 Asheville + Biltmore city directory. August 27, 1907- Putnams Retail Department sent copies of "Forest Utilization Mensuration and Sylviculture" to Dr. Schenck. November 4, 1907- Putnams Retail Department sent copies of "Forest Utilization, Paper Edition" to Dr. Schenck. 1907- Dr. Schenck does not recommend shipment of the shoes ordered from M. A. Packard Company by Mr. Jenney shortly before his death. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0007This folder contains queries on buying and selling timberlands, including lands that adjoin George Vanderbilt's current holdings. March 9, 1909- Dr. Schenck writes he is selling Highland Forest property for $400,000. He will also sell stumpage from George Vanderbilt's lands. March 19, 1909- Dr. Schenck writes he is selling mature trees for timber on George Vanderbilt's various tracts in Buncombe County, tributary to Candler station. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0008Includes both orders for lumber and firewood. May and June 1908- A. T. Pandlers writes about borrowing lumber to make seats in the "gospel tent" he may put up at Biltmore. It appears Dr. Schenck did not loan him George Vanderbilt's lumber, but sent a $5 check. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0009This folder contains correspondence about selling wood to Dr. Schenck. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0010September and October 1905- Pineforest Lumber Co. of Chicago, IL. consults with C.A. Schenck & Co. about a survey of timberlands. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0011Correspondence regarding the sale of living animals. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0012This folder contains correspondence regarding Biltmore Estate's rental properties and requests to board Biltmore Forest School students. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0013March 27, 1901- Mrs. Charles Petty of Spartanburg, S. C. requests recent publications on forestry for her Women's Clubs. February 3, 1906- Herbert Putnam, Librarian of Congress sent a receipt upon the arrival of three of Dr. Schenck's publications that were sent to the United States of America Library of Congress. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0014Information on two publications that were sent to Dr. Schenck. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0015This folder contains requests from men and women wishing to visit Pisgah Forest and Buck Spring Lodge. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0016Requests for payments. May 22, 1901- John Perry writes from Hendersonville, N.C. saying Schenck's new bridge on Mud Creek at Misses Norton's Estate was destroyed. July 20, 1901- List of doctor's bills and burial expenses for Marsett Payne. July 24, 1908- G. W. Parker asks Dr. Schenck to pay his doctor's bill and allow him time off after his injury at the cut off saw. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0017Includes two letters from Christine W. Price. February 13, 1903- S. F. [Pevear?], Geo. H. Cecil and Lindley Burns write Dr. Schenck in response to McNamee's complaint of Biltmore Forest School students' loud, drunken "Jubilee" in Biltmore. December 1, 1904- Henry S. Phillips left Biltmore Forest School. October 10, 1907- J. Harold Peterson studying at the University of Michigan but hopes to return to Biltmore Forest School. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0018March 28, 1901- J. M. Patton says he knows of silver, lead, gold, copper, garnets and other valuable minerals in the Pink Beds and Pisgah Forest. He would like to prospect for them. November 26, 1902- R. E. Patton sold Dr. Schenck the Davidson River mill on Nov. 11th. July 18, 1904- Perry & Love Stables ask Dr. Schenck to cancel the $2 toll necessary for teams to gain admission through the Buck Spring Lodge Gate. August 8, 1904- W. W. Pless writes that telephone service may be obtained in Cruso, N.C. and might be available at Buck Spring Lodge. August 14, 1907- Two blank copies of petitions asking that rural free delivery route No.1 from Pisgah Forest not be discontinued. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0019December 8, 1898- The Secretary of the Sierra Club in San Francisco, CA writes that The Sierra Club Bulletin may not be of much interest to Dr. Schenck. February 5, 1902- Dr. Schenck asked to address the State Good Roads Convention, taking place on Feb.13th and 14th at Raleigh, on the subject of good roads. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0020July 3, 1906- Question about the most recent books published on Flora or Botany of the Southern USA. October 1906- Attorneys in Morganton, N.C. need information on the life and growth of hickory trees. November 28, 1906- Geo. S. Powell, President of the North Carolina Commission to the Jamestown Exposition, wishes Dr. Schenck to furnish mill work for the interior of one or two of the rooms in the State Building that will be put up at the Jamestown Exposition Grounds. Edith Vanderbilt decided to furnish one of the rooms from the Biltmore Estate Industrial Department. The Commission may sell it at the end of the Exposition. December 8, 1908- T. S. Palmer, In Charge of Game Preservation for the U.S.D.A. Bureau of Biological Survey, comments on Dr. Schenck's discouragement over trespassers killing deer and pheasants on Biltmore Estate. December 14, 1908- Copy of a letter to Representative Edward W. Pou, a member of the Committee on Ways and Means. The writer, probably Dr. Schenck, asks that custom duties by retained and increased on foreign wood goods. Low prices on wood goods hurt N.C. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0021This folder contains " Copies of Directions to the Pink Beds from the Lower Ferry at Biltmore." The directions include landmarks and instructions to water your horse at a certain branch. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0022Non-dated list of names and locations of prominent foresters. May 3, 1907- Attorney J. W. Pless writes about his memories of the case of Vanderbilt and Lusk against Johnston, Mulliax and others. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0023Correspondence from Charles L. Pack of Cleveland, Ohio. Pack was a member of the American Forestry Association. He requested literature from Dr. Schenck. They disagreed over whether forest fires or forests taxes were the biggest obstacle in forestry progress. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0024Correspondence from R. Pagenstecher. New York, N.Y. Dr. Schenck made plans to travel to New York and consult on the Pagenstecher Family's land. The travel plans were not successful at that time. Dr. Schenck's sister was visiting from Germany. In an April 9, 1909 letter Dr. Schenck writes that the forest fires at Biltmore were not as bad as reported in Northern newspapers. 12,000 acres of second growth woodland and 20-30 acres of plantations were burnt. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0025Correspondence from Dr. Paul Paquin, Secretary. Asheville Public Health and Resort Association. Asheville, N. C. November 9, 1899- Dr. Battle nominated Dr. Schenck for membership in the Asheville Public Health and Resort Association. Dr. Paquin later wrote about the cost of building the Asheville-Biltmore Sanitarium, which was way over budget. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0026Correspondence from Haywood Parker. Asheville, N.C. He was a member of Davidson, Bourne & Parker, Attorneys and Counsellors. They worked for Dr. Schenck on the purchase of the Barber land. References to M. S. Glenn. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0027Correspondence from Mr. and Mrs. John Parker. Biltmore, N.C. Includes questions about renting a house and purchasing a mule team. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0028Correspondence from W. T. Parnell. Piedmont, S. C. This folder contains letters concerning purchase or trade of land tracts 213, 198 and 356. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0029Chas. C. Patton. Ecusta, N.C. This folder contains miscellaneous correspondence including March 17, 1899 request to establish a phone line from Brevard via Davidson River, Mills River to Asheville. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0030Correspondence from John S. Patton. Davidsons River, N.C. He sold, and offered to sell, to Dr. Schenck various items and services. November 11, 1902- Closed Dr. Schenck's deal on mill [at Davidson River.] He ordered large amounts of flour, and was probably the miller. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0031Correspondence from John S. Patton of Davidsons River, N.C. He sold, and offered to sell, to Dr. Schenck various items and services. He ordered large amounts of flour, and was probably the miller. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0032Correspondence from John S. Patton of Davidsons River, N.C. He sold, and offered to sell, to Dr. Schenck various items and services. He ordered large amounts of flour, and was probably the miller. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0033Correspondence from Mrs. T. Ed Patton. Davidsons River, N.C. 1903. She apparently boarded Biltmore Forest School students and Estate workers for Dr. Schenck. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0034Correspondence from Geo. H. Patullo. Scotia, CA. November 23, 1895- Non-signed letter, probably from Dr. Schenck, asking for advice on the log elevator and machinery at the mill. Details on the current equipment there. March 24, 1896 and April 14, 1896- Patullo gives detailed advice on working with the mill's machinery. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0035Correspondence from C. H. Paxton of Cherry Hill, N.C. Miscellaneous correspondence with references to "Gloster." Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0036Correspondence from George W. Peabody. June 27, 1899- Peabody was a Biltmore Forest School student who went against Dr. Schenck's advice and accepted a job offer from Pinchot to be an Expert in the Division of Forestry in the Adirondacks. October 6, 1899- Writing from Santa Ana, CA. Peabody does not care for government work or the conformity required for it. Problems with Pinchot and [William] Ashe. Wants Dr. Schenck's help in finding a new job. June 23, 1900- Working at a logging camp in Hoquiam, WA, where he is unhappy. October 23, 1901- Appears to be writing about forestry in Hawaii. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0037Correspondence from C. K. Peacock of Waynesville, N.C. He wanted to contract with Dr. Schenck for logging and sawing. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0038Correspondence from T. Gilbert Pearson. March 16, 1898- Writing from North Carolina Geological Survey in Chapel Hill, N.C. He sent Smithwick's list of birds of N.C., not included, to Dr. Schenck. March 22, 1898- Recommends more readings on birds for Dr. Schenck. He lists costs of mounting specimens. Suggests a Natural History Survey be made of Biltmore Estate. March 28, 1898- Pearson lists conditions under which he will make the Natural History Survey of Biltmore Estate. February 6, 1899- Offers again to make the Survey. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0039Correspondence from T. Gilbert Pearson. September 10, 1904- Pearson writing as Secretary of The Audubon Society of North Carolina. Greensboro, N.C. Citizens of Transylvania County, N.C. suggest appointing J. B. Allison as a Game Warden. Pearson home from a visit to the Pink Beds. December 16, 1904- George Vanderbilt appears to have given money to The Audubon Society of North Carolina. November 8, 1904- Pearson's instructions to the new Game Warden, J. B. Allison. Praises George Vanderbilt's interest in game laws. October 24, 1906- Sending Dr. Schenck "Bird Lore" magazine. May 11, 1907- Could not give a Biltmore Forest School course in Zoology, but would do a shorter lecture for free. References to Mr. Oberholser. Dr. Schenck requesting [game and bird?] collection permits. November 23, 1907- The Audubon Society of North Carolina is very busy. Since March 1 they conducted over 100 prosecutions in N.C. State courts for violations of Bird and Game laws. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0040Correspondence from P. P. Pelton. Dedham, MA; Arden, N.C. and other locations. Planning to come to Biltmore Forest School but he was ill and had to delay the trip. November 24, 1902- Will begin work as a government Ranger next week. Remembers his Class at Biltmore Forest School. April 15, 1903- Writing from Crestone, CO where he works in the Sangre de Cristo chain of the Rocky Mountains. Writes of how it is difficult to travel there and of his supervisors' incompetence. Doing well in his investments in the mines. Pelton says he likes the work, but needs to leave for health reasons. Wants to work for Dr. Schenck. May 10, 1903- Pelton got many Pine seed to plant on the Reserve. He will send some to Dr. Schenck. Pelton teases that he got them illegally. July 31, 1903- Writing from Arden, N.C. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0041Correspondence from P. P. Pelton. Pelton asks for camping passes for himself, his sister and friends. August 15, 1904- Suggestions for an Alumni Association of Biltmore Forest School. Glad to hear of Dr. Schenck's proposed changes for Biltmore Forest School. October 27, 1904- Pelton writes to Dr. Schenck, "I want you to give me a job for a few months, and I want you to damn bad." December 7 and 10, 1904- Detailed plans for the Biltmore Forest School Alumni Association. August 24, 1905- Pelton uses the slang, or slur, "How" as a greeting and later explains the term's popularity. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0042Correspondence from W. T. Penniman, Agent, Office of The Biltmore Store. Biltmore, N.C. This folder contains miscellaneous correspondence on supplies ordered and credit to employees. December 18, 1897- Dr. Schenck suggests establishing a wood yard in Biltmore. Penniman writes they would be happy to take charge of sales. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0043Correspondence from Penniman Bros. & Co., Jobbers and Dealers in Hardware. Asheville, N.C. This folder contains miscellaneous correspondence about hardware and nails. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0044Correspondence from The Pennsylvania Forestry Association. Philadelphia, PA. Meeting announcements. April 11, no year- Mont Alto and Caledonia reserves will be discussed at the next meeting. They are a part of Pennsylvania's South Mountain reserve, which has about 45,000 acres. April 11, 1908- Request that members react to the Appalachian and White Mountain Reservation Bill, recently passed by Congress. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0045Correspondence from Llewellyn R. Perkins of Trudeau, N.Y. He applied to Biltmore Forest School but decided not to attend. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0046Correspondence from J. B. Perry. Ecusta, N.C. and Brevard, N.C. He sold land [Tract] 80 to George Vanderbilt through Dr. Schenck. He claimed that lumber was cut without his consent from the land he sold. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0047Correspondence from J. J. Perry. This folder contains miscellaneous correspondence with a request for Dr. Schenck to support the Public School, reference to taking options at Davidson River and reference to taking a river reading. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0048Correspondence from J. Lamb Perry, Attorney and Counsellor at Law. Charleston, S.C. He wanted Dr. Schenck to evaluate land for his [Perry's] brother-in-law, Duke de Litta Visconti Arese. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0049Correspondence from J. Girvin Peters. Forest Assistant, United States Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Forestry and Forest Service. Washington D.C. and other places. August 17, 1904- Pinchot asked, or recommended, that Peters give lectures at Biltmore Forest School on the U.S.D.A., Bureau of Forestry's field methods. Planning to travel to Biltmore. December 8, 1904- Wants copies of the sample plat measurements taken at the Pink Beds. December 12, 1904- Reference to students undertaking Busbee working plan. January 17, 1905- Mr. Price asked Dr. Schenck to write something for the Forestry Bureau's publication. Prepared to teach at Biltmore Forest School during the summer of 1905. August 18, 1905- Seeks information on handling chestnut oak tanbark for publication in a new forest service bulletin. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0050Correspondence from J. Girvin Peters. Forest Assistant, United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. January 13 and 24, 1906- Peters needs Busbee working plan for the Government bulletin on which he and Dr. Schenck are cooperating. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0051Correspondence from J. Girvin Peters. Forest Assistant, United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. June 16, 1907- Peters announces his marriage engagement and that he will remain in the U.S.D.A., Forest Service. December 3, 1907- Thanks Dr. Schenck, Dr. Howe and Biltmore Forest School students for sending a wedding day telegram. February 11, 1908- Peters signs a letter as Acting Chief of the U.S.D.A., Forest Service. February 13 and 20, 1909- Peters signs letters as Chief of U.S.D.A., Forest Service. February 13, 1909- Pinchot will speak about "Forestry on Private Lands" and would like a written statement on work at Biltmore to incorporate. February 15, 1909- Copy of Dr. Schenck's reply to the above mentioned request. He states extent of Biltmore Estate, extent of woodlands, lumber operations, roads, railways, forest fire protection, sylviculture methods and financial aspects. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 28.0052Correspondence from C. R. Pettis, Forester, State of New York Forest, Fish and Game Commission. Albany, N. Y. March 17, 1904- Will send bulletins on forest fires to Biltmore Forest School. August 17, 1905- Offers seed and mentions he sent 100 lbs. of White Pine seed last fall. Offering more White Pine seed for sale. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0001Correspondence from T. F. Pevear. Providence, Rhode Island and Biltmore, N.C. May 8, 1903- Believes he passed exams. Captain Ahern said all who passed would receive appointments [in the Philippines?]. Sent exam questions, not included, to Dr. Schenck. May 16, 1903- Will marry and take a position in the Philippine service instead of continuing his education at Biltmore Forest School. Sees the need for a forestry text-book. May 19, 1903- Hears Mr. Bruncken will probably leave Biltmore Forest School and wants his job. October 10, 1903- Agrees to become Dr. Schenck's assistant for $100 a month and a $15 monthly allowance for livery. June 9, 1904- Resigns as a Biltmore Forest School instructor. August 23, 1904- News of Caleb Farnum's death, caused by injuries from his forestry work. April 4, 1905- Working as an Advertising Specialist in Rhode Islands. He writes he feels like "a true suburbanite." Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0002Correspondence from Piedmont Electric Company of Asheville, N. C. September 9, 1903- Received Dr. Schenck's letter "concerning the proposed telephone line to be run from the Biltmore Estate to Buck Spring Lodge thence to the Pink Beds and Davidson River." Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0003Correspondence from Albert H. Pierson. November 18, 1901- Requests Biltmore Forest School circulars. Says he is an A. B. Princeton Class of 1899 graduate. December 2, 1901- Considering attending Biltmore Forest School. He will see Mr. Merck and tell him of his final decision. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0004Correspondence from Albert H. Pierson. He moved to the Pink Beds. Time sheets for work on Bent Creek Road, River Cliff Road and Ram for Rankin House, etc. September 5, 1903- Reference to Bent Creek Trail Survey. August 9, 1903- Results of his Civil Service Examination. Part of a letter on trail from Glenn Gap to Reynolds Gap. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0005Correspondence from Lillie Pimmer of Arden, N.C. and Davidson's River, N.C. She taught school and Sunday school. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0006Correspondence from Gifford Pinchot. August 28, 1895- Copy of a letter, probably from Dr. Schenck to Pinchot. The writer asks Pinchot's opinion on rearranging compartments. References to the Arboretum Road and the Arrowhead Peninsula. Gives opinions on different supervisory methods needed by Biltmore Estate Agricultural Department and Landscape Department and their different rates of pay. Mr. Losey was promoted to foreman in charge of the wood elevator. November 18, 1895- Pinchot wants to stay at Cheap Enough and go bear hunting, with Mr. Case baiting the bear. November 22, 1895- Pinchot's advice for Leupp's and Griffith's counting of tree rings. January 31, 1896- Pinchot writes he is sorry to hear of the news of the dam and the boom. Letter is included with a grouping of earlier letters about the dam. They also include requests for lantern slides to be taken for illustration of a lecture Pinchot will give in New Haven, CT. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0007Correspondence from Gifford Pinchot. September 24, 1896- Pinchot writing from Hewet, CA on the letterhead of The Forest Commission of the National Academy of Sciences. Enjoyed his Western trip. Griffith told him about problems of the splash dam in Pisgah Forest and of Whitney's retirement. October 21, 1896- Pinchot wants to send White Pine seed from Biltmore to Cape Colony, South Africa. He wants to discuss Mr. Fernow's letter on White Pine, which appears in "Garden & Forest," with Dr. Schenck. November 25, 1896- Schenck writes that cutting live branches of "loup" trees in Compartment 27 was stopped. December 7, 1896- George Vanderbilt decided not to keep Griffiths [sic] on staff beyond the first of January. Have Lindsay make copies of the photographs in the Biltmore Chicago Exhibit. June 24, 1897- Pinchot wants to argue "Garden and Forest" articles with Dr. Schenck. Pinchot is going west for Government work, which will include recommending new boundaries for reserves. November 11, 1897- Pinchot did not get as much work done as expected out West, but is happy the feelings toward reserves in the West are changing. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0008Correspondence from Gifford Pinchot. January 20, 1898- Pinchot is not interested in joining a Company for the Management of Forest Lands. He does not know if it would be a success. February 28, 1898- Pinchot writes that the Governor of New York may pass action for Cornell University to get 25,000 acres to manage as a forest experiment in the Adirondacks. March 9, 1898- Pinchot received Schenck's paper that was read at the first meeting of the North Carolina State Forestry Society. May 20, 1898- Fernow will begin management of the Forest School at Cornell University. Secretary Wilson asked Pinchot to join/manage the U.S.D.A., Division of Forestry. Pinchot is seriously considering it. He would want Dr. Schenck's cooperation and would possibly work to publish silviculture studies of North Carolina trees. Pinchot sees Biltmore Forest School is being advertised. He recommends "The Critic" as a good place for advertising. June 28, 1898- Pinchot glad Dr. Schenck is cooperating with the U.S.D.A., Division of Forestry. July 16, 25 and 28, 1898- Pinchot asks Dr. Schenck to represent the Division of Forestry in a group making a working-plan for Pineland in Alabama. August 20, 1898- Specifications of appointing Dr. Schenck as a special agent of the Division of Forestry. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0009Correspondence from Gifford Pinchot. September 16, 1898- Pinchot says that Dr. Schenck is fortunate to have only three students at the opening of Biltmore Forest School. Pinchot will write George Vanderbilt about working plans. References to problems with work in Alabama and references to Mr. Bartlett of the Jasper Town and Lands Company. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0010Correspondence from Gifford Pinchot. November 4, 1898- Pinchot recommends leaving out the financial information when publishing the working plan. November 15 and 17, 1898- Information on Dr. Schenck's position as a special agent of the Division of Forestry. Dr. Schenck will have to take an examination to make the job permanent. November 19, 1898- Dr. Schenck's citizenship status will prevent him from taking the civil-service examination and thus becoming a permanent special agent for the Division of Forestry. References to Dr. Schenck's plan to study the Sewanee land. December 20, 1898- Recommendation for Mr. Ronci. December 30, 1898- Pinchot working to increase his appropriation. Pinchot hopes Sir Brandis will not dedicate his book to Sargent "because Sargent seems to be so thoroughly discredited now among the men who are actually at work in forestry in this country." Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0011Correspondence from Gifford Pinchot. Correspondence about Dr. Schenck's work at Sewanee, TN (University of the South) and Jasper work with Mr. Bartlett. January 19, 1899- Pinchot interested in Dr. Schenck's efforts to introduce forest studies at Vanderbilt University, University of the South and University of Tennessee. February 18 and 27, 1899- Pinchot will not let Lamb enter the Division of Forestry based on the information in Professor Dudley's letter. March 9, 1899- Gaskill asked Pinchot for summer work. Pinchot proposes that he, Fernow and Schenck each write a short article on forest students in America to be printed in "The Forester." Pinchot asks if Schenck will send more articles for "The Forester." Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0012Correspondence from Gifford Pinchot. May 20, 1899- Pinchot asks Dr. Schenck to extend forestry work into Arkansas and possibly into Florida and Alabama. June 1, 1899- Pinchot asks Dr. Schenck to consider accepting the rejected applicants for Division of Forestry Student Assistants as Biltmore Forest School summer students. June 19, 1899- Copies of letters. John C. Du Bois considered Biltmore Forest School for his son after recommendation by Gifford Pinchot. List of students appointed as Government summer assistant-foresters from 1899 to 1902. References to job offers for George Peabody. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0013Correspondence from Gifford Pinchot. August 29, 1899- Pinchot reviews Dr. Schenck's working plan for Sewanee. Lists his suggestions for it. September 12, 1899- Getting illustrations (photographs) for Sewanee working plan. October 18, 1899- Pinchot received a letter with a copy of a paper Schenck sent to "Mr. Burns." Pinchot is very unhappy about the contents. November 2, 1899- Pinchot did not realize that Dr. Schenck did not understand the situation in the Adirondacks when he sent the report to Burns. Pinchot is sorry about his reaction to the report. He hopes Dr. Schenck will continue to cooperate with the Division of Forestry and possibly take up a study on Longleaf Pine in the winter. November 8, 1899- Notes on Arkansas work. Glad Dr. Schenck would like to work with Longleaf Pine. Schenck traveling, or planning to travel, for Longleaf Pine investigations. November 29, 1899- Sewanee work. December 16, 1899- Pinchot's advice on arranging the Sewanee Working Plan. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0014Correspondence from Gifford Pinchot. January 2, 1900- Dr. Schenck was authorized $250 to travel to all Longleaf Pine States. January 11, 1900- Mr. Wiggins at Sewanee wants to begin lumbering as soon as possible. January 29, 1900- Pinchot says Dr. Schenck should do work for the Misses Norton's [WoodNorton Estate] as Biltmore Estate Forester and not Collaborator of the Division of Forestry. February 6, 1900- Pinchot's thoughts on work at Sewanee. Dr. Schenck's paper on capitalistic forestry was not yet published by "The Forester" because his views disagreed with those of the Association. Pinchot believes Schenck's statements were too strong and negative. February 7, 1900- Pinchot mentions he and Dr. Schenck can no longer collaborate at Sewanee. February 14, 1900- Pinchot would like to meet with Dr. Schenck to discuss their basic views of forestry. Pinchot, unlike Schenck, believes forestry can be profitable. February 23, 1900- Pinchot writes about expenses and ownership rights of Dr. Schenck's work. March 22, 1900- Pinchot wants to speak with Dr. Schenck about the address he gave at the Baltimore Meeting of the National Wholesale Lumber Dealers' Association. Dr. Schenck said forestry is only practical when practiced on large estates. That is not what the U.S.D.A., Division of Forestry believes, and Pinchot believes Dr. Schenck and the Division should end their official connection. March 28, 1900- Pinchot appears to reconsider asking Dr. Schenck to leave the Division after hearing Dr. Schenck's thoughts. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0015Correspondence from Gifford Pinchot with Pinchot and Schenck exchanging materials. April 2, 1901- Pinchot now writing as Forester at the U.S.D.A., Bureau of Forestry and not the Division of Forestry. Pinchot sorry and surprised to hear that he and Dr. Schenck are at odds. He wants to reconcile personal differences. January 4, 1902- Pinchot asks that Biltmore Forest School students be offered appointments as Bureau of Forestry Student Assistants. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0016Correspondence from Gifford Pinchot. March 4, 1903- Pinchot writes about Government examinations for forestry positions. April 18, 1903- W. E. Harrison will work as a Student Assistant at the Bureau of Forestry. July 21, 1903- Pinchot wrote to Dr. Schenck stating that he wrote to George Vanderbilt telling how Biltmore Forest can aid in the progress of forestry in the U.S.A. He believes Biltmore Forest School is valuable as an opportunity for field study. July 20, 1903- Copy of Pinchot's letter to George Vanderbilt. Pinchot disagrees with Dr. Schenck's intention of awarding successful Biltmore Forest School graduates with a Bachelor of Forestry degree and awarding "other graduates who have passed a certain test" with a Forest Engineer degree. Pinchot believes forestry schools should be graduate programs and that nonprofessional men should not be allowed to enter the field. Pinchot also mentions that Dr. Schenck has split with general forestry beliefs and that Biltmore Forest School should be closed unless his views change. August 6, 1903-Copy of Biltmore Forest School students' response to Pinchot's letter to George Vanderbilt. They list their qualifications and tell of the education they are receiving at Biltmore Forest School. They invite Pinchot to visit. October 15, 1903- Pinchot glad to hear Schenck is in agreement with Government work. Former Biltmore Forest School students had told him differently. He will try to visit Biltmore Forest School. October 7, 1903- Pinchot's response to Biltmore Forest School students' letter. He still believes Biltmore Forest School is deficient in training foresters. He would like to visit. Dr. Schenck sending literature to Pinchot. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0017Correspondence from Gifford Pinchot. January 27, 1904- Pinchot was glad to hear Dr. Schenck's idea that "forestry at Biltmore will be self-supporting." He is still not able to come for a visit. July 12, 1904- Pinchot happy that Biltmore Forest School and the Government might cooperate. Dr. Schenck wishes to hire a lecturer from the Bureau of Forestry to teach for two months each year. Pinchot recommends J. Girvin Peters and suggests that other lecturers could come for shorter terms. July 26, 1904- Pinchot supports an Advisory Board for Biltmore Forest School. August 5, 1904- Notice of a new social club in Washington D.C. for men interested in forestry issues. August 15, 1904- "Hall" recommends C. S. Mason to Dr. Schenck as a Dendrologist. Coordinating for J. Girvin Peters to lecture at Biltmore Forest School. September 22, 1904- Notice of a new edition of Forest Terminology in French, English and German by Professor Gerschel. October 18, 1904- Pinchot tells Dr. Schenck of the Forest Congress planned in Washington D.C. from January 2 - 6, 1904. Professor Graves will bring his students from Yale University. Can Dr. Schenck come and bring students? Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0018Correspondence from Gifford Pinchot. Schenck sending literature to Pinchot. September 2, 1905- Letter of introduction to E. W. Durant, Jr. January 26, 1906- Pinchot says Count Bernstorff wants to visit Biltmore. July 29, 1907- Pinchot was asked by the Society of American Foresters to ask Dr. Schenck to serve on a committee that would "report upon the advisability of publishing a Foresters Magazine." Pinchot asked Professor Graves to serve as the Committee's chairman. January 2, 1908- The Bureau of the Census and the Forest Service seek information for their annual report on the production of lumber and other forest products. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0019Correspondence from Paul Pine of Mercersburg, PA. Miscellaneous letters, including one in German. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0020Correspondence from W. D. Pinkerton of Baltimore, MD. He applied for admission to Biltmore Forest School and made plans for entering. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0021Correspondence from Pittsburg [sic] Woven Wire Fence Co. Pittsburg, PA. They sold fencing to Dr. Schenck. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0022Correspondence from H. W. Plemmon, Secretary, Asheville Electric Company. Asheville, N.C. Correspondence about liability after one of Dr. Schenck's teams was hit by one of their cars. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0023Correspondence from Plymouth Rock Trout Co. Plymouth, MA. They sold eyed brook trout eggs to Dr. Schenck. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0024Correspondence from Russell G. Pond. Biltmore, N.C., Hot Springs, CA and Arlington, MA. June 5, 1906- Pond wrote about his mica lease to H. M. Parker and his lumber sawing work. July 10, 1906- Most of the wood is gone from the former mill site at Beaver Dam Creek. July 27, 1906- Working on Garret Purchase survey. August 16, 1905- Pond is being sent by A. K. Chittenden for work in Idaho. April 19, 1907- Postcard showing Vernal Fall, Yosemite Valley, California. April 21, 1907- Writes of taking his [Civil Service?] exam. January 7, 1908- Pond working for the U.S.D.A., Forest Service. He writes about other Biltmore Forest School graduates working there. Pond met with Greeley and thinks he would be the best candidate to take Pinchot's place. Pond believes that Biltmore Forest School graduates who entered Government Service have done better than those who went into private work. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0025Correspondence from Edwin Poor of Davidson River, N.C. Miscellaneous correspondence. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0026Correspondence from F. E. Pope of Trion, GA. He considered doing roadwork and hauling for Dr. Schenck. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0027Correspondence from H. K. Porter of Biltmore, N.C. and Denver, Co. He appears to be a former Biltmore Forest School student who had personal conflicts with Dr. Schenck. He left forestry to do other work. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0028Correspondence from E. H. Potter. Biltmore, N.C., Davidson River, N.C. and Sunburst, N.C. He sent seeds to people, repaired roads, inspected tan bark and did other local jobs for Dr. Schenck. November 26, 1906- Potter working for The Champion Fibre Company. He wants to settle ill feelings between Dr. Schenck and himself. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0029Correspondence from J. W. Potter of Skyland, N.C. Miscellaneous correspondence. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0030Correspondence from R. W. Powell, President, Powell Lumber and Mining Company. Westel, TN. Powell comments on how attitudes about forestry differ in the North and the South of the U.S.A. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0031Correspondence from Joseph Hyde Pratt. Mineralogist and Acting State Geologist. North Carolina Geological Survey. Chapel Hill, N.C. January 6, 1898- Wants to know the locality of the large garnet crystal that was sent. February 6, 1899- Returning the garnet crystal. He asks Dr. Schenck to notify him of any minerals found on Biltmore Estate. February 13, 1899- Pratt says that mineral specimens sent to him were identified as pyrite and pyrrhotite in quartz. He reports on these minerals and their values. June 20, 1906- Pratt identified more pyrrhotite. June 30, 1906- Pratt sending Mr. Sterrett for work at Pisgah. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0032Correspondence from Fred Locke Pray. Washington D.C., Davidson River, N.C. and Hyde Park, N.Y. December 29, 1903- Pray is a former Biltmore Forest School student, working with the Government. June 27, 1904- Pray writes that Homaus and Farnum passed the Civil Service Examination that Spring in Washington. Mumford may have passed, but Cecil, Rodman and Burbridge did not. Pray then lists the field work in which each of these men is involved. April 12, 1905- Pray, Cecil and Rodman will take the Civil Service Exam. June 11, 1905- Returning Schenck's list of Examination Questions. Pray is assisting Mr. Peters in Hyde Park, N.Y. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0033Correspondence from Price & Heald of Baltimore, MD. They considered buying Biltmore lumber and sending a student to Biltmore Forest School. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0034Overton W. Price. September 3, 1896- Writing from Fletcher, N.C. Price will send Dr. Schenck a description of compartments and notes of sample plots. December 30, 1898- Price writing from Bonn, Germany, where he worked with Sir Brandis. Brandis plans to publish his notes. May 9, 1899- Price told Dr. Schenck of his expenses for work at Sewanee. Price going to Washington D.C., apparently to work for Pinchot. May 20, 1898- Price will work for part of the year doing Government field work and the other part of the year doing office work in Washington D.C. He will do Adirondacks plans in the summer. Brief comments on Pinchot's thoughts on Sewanee work. June 2 and 3, 1899- Price leaving for the Adirondacks. He would like Pinchot to hire a Biltmore Forest School student to assist him. June 29, 1899- Price writing from St. Regis Falls, N.Y. Dr. Schenck bought his horse, Betty, for $114. Mr. Wiggins offered Price a position at Sewanee. He will probably get a Division of Forestry employee, instead of a Biltmore Forest School student, as an assistant. October 27, 1900- Would like to locate Biltmore Forest School student, Norman M. Ross to talk with him about possible Student Assistant field work. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0035Correspondence from Overton W. Price. May 12, 1903- Rodman's application [for U.S.D.A., Bureau of Forestry Student Assistant?] was approved. September 2, 1904- H. S. Phillip was approved as a Student Assistant. Miscellaneous correspondence including Price receiving letters for Pinchot and Schenck endorsing students for Government Student Assistantships. September 9, 1904 and December 31, 1904- The U.S.D.A., Bureau of Forestry and the Society of American Foresters are compiling a Government publication listing terms used both in forestry and lumbering. Price mentions the current troubles with forest nomenclature. He asks for Dr. Schenck's help. Price planning to lecture at Biltmore Forest School, though the trips are often delayed. Price sending literature to Dr. Schenck. December 31, 1904- The U.S.D.A., Bureau of Forestry will pay for Price's lectures at Biltmore Forest School. Price enjoyed giving them. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0036Correspondence from Overton W. Price, Associate Forester, U.S.D.A., Bureau of Forestry. April 15, 1905- Notes on the translation of Professor Busgen's "Structure and Life of Our Forest Trees." Fernow bought the translation and will probably release the work. May 23 and 31, 1905- Price sent Dr. Schenck a copy of Sir Brandis' book. The book does not seem applicable to American forestry. The Bureau of Forestry will be happy to send Peters again to lecture at Biltmore Forest School. August 16, 1906- Price sent revised regulations for the use of forest reserves. He said Biltmore Forest School students did well on their [Civil Service?] Exams, with Bronson [or Dunston?] leading in his forestry paper. September 13, 1905- May consider Jensen for tree planting work. Need two Biltmore Forest School students to help with a working plan in Michigan. September 18, 1905- Mr. Davis and Mr. Tucker will begin Government appoints. Dunston will be considered. September 21 and 27, 1905- The U.S.D.A., Forest Service recognizes the need to establish a good system of trail building. They would like to study Dr. Schenck's excellent methods of trail building. Gaskill will come to Biltmore to make a study and the results will be published. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0037Correspondence from Overton W. Price, Associate Forester, U.S.D.A., Forest Service. January 13, 1906- Price lent Dr. Schenck Sir Brandis' book on forest management in Germany. January 25, 1906- Dr. Schenck sent Price literature, including his notes on a manuscript by Sir Brandis. Price plans to again lecture at Biltmore Forest School. June 15, 1906- Price glad to hear Clothier's lectures went well at Biltmore Forest School. Price hopes Biltmore Forest School and the Forest Service can continue to cooperate. Price does not think Dr. Schenck's and Pinchot's ideas are as different as Dr. Schenck believes them to be. Letters about Gilbert Rogers' notes on Biltmore. September 11, 1906- Price going to meeting of the Canadian Forestry Association at Victoria and to inspect some Forest Service reserve work. Price suggests Samuel J. Record, J. Givin Peters and John Foley as possible substitutes for Dr. Schenck at Biltmore Forest School during his winter absence. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0038Correspondence from Overton W. Price, Associate Forester, U.S.D.A., Forest Service. April 1, 1907- Arranging for Clothier to lecture at Biltmore Forest School. July 5, 1907- Mr. Berry can finish his work with Dr. Schenck before beginning his work in Washington D.C. Very short references to California forest law, Appalachian region private forest land legislation and a U.S. law "relating to conserved forests." February 24, 1909- Dr. Schenck was reappointed to the Editorial Board of the Society of American Foresters. Price was Vice President of the Society and Pinchot was President. Price lists all members of the Editorial Board and their titles. March 19, 1909- Copy of a letter, apparently from Dr. Schenck to Price. The writer says he wishes to form an association of forest owners that will include lumber manufacturers. He agrees with the letter Pinchot wrote to the Honorable S. Payne. He does not like the Weeks bill. He believes a forestry policy for the South is the most pressing national forest problem. Dr. Schenck wants [Raphael?] Zon to lecture at Biltmore Forest School. March 27, 1909- Dr. Schenck tells Price that the hunting and fishing club, from lease of George Vanderbilt's land, is being formed. He says the club has about 70 members. Annual dues are fifty dollars. Henning F. Adickes, Jr. is Club Secretary. Schenck mentions that Price's uncle, Gustave Westfeldt, may, or already has, joined the club. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0039Correspondence from Frank Wally Pukins of Washington D.C. and Chestertown, MD. He wrote about the possible loan of instruments to Biltmore Estate. Online Catalog Terms
Box.Folder 29.0040Correspondence from H. C. Putnam, Member of the Wisconsin State Forestry Commission. Eau Claire, WI. March 7, 1898- Putnam writes that he was surprised to learn N.C. "was so bad on taxes." He writes of taxes and fire in "the three forest states (Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan.)" He asks about East Tennessee Lumber & Mining Co.'s lands and true white pine. He wishes to visit Biltmore. February 27, 1904- Putnam was glad to receive literature from Dr. Schenck. He mentions the lumber company for which his son works and his support of the "Blue Ridge" reserve. Online Catalog Terms
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