Letters, 1877-1883.

ArchivalResource

Greble, Edwin, 1806-1883. Letters, 1877-1883.

Letters, 1877-1883.

http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/122641136

Consists of eleven letters from Greble to his son, also Edwin Greble, in Europe. In addition to relaying family news, the letters record Greble's stone work, construction ventures, and income from rental properties. He wrote about "monumental work," which included making tombs, statues, mantels, vestibules for houses at Spruce and 21st, and cemetery ornaments for local customers and individuals in Virginia and Venezuela. The letters further document a gradual shift in preference during the period for granite over marble monuments. At times, Greble complained of his inability to get rid of stock. He also noted that work at some cemeteries was hard to obtain as it was "in the hands of Superintendents who are either in partnership or get commissions from stone cutters - this I cannot nor will not do, the consequence is I receive no work from these persons." Greble did, however, work closely with builder, Charles W. Budd, in constructing houses on Sansom St. The building of these houses, using greenstone as the finishing material, is described in detail. Greble also informed his son about his social activities. He often mentions doing things with members of the Dreer family and having relatives, in particular Edwin St. John Greble, to visit. One letter gives information on problems in William F. Dreer's partnership with Henry Smith. As his son travels through Europe, Greble relays past experiences in the places his son is staying. He also requested and received photographs of buildings from his son.

11 items.

Winterthur Library