Papers, 1773-1796, bulk 1792-1795.

ArchivalResource

Stewart, Walter, 1756-1796. Papers, 1773-1796, bulk 1792-1795.

Papers, 1773-1796, bulk 1792-1795.

http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/86134496

Consists of 111 bills, receipts, letters from merchants, etc. that, for the most part, relate to the construction and furnishing of Stewart's mansion in Philadelphia and two other dwellings occupied by family members during the 1780s and 1790s. Also present is a contract with Frederick Kehn for building the mansion, called "Mount Stewart." In addition, there are manuscripts that relate to Mrs. Stewart's attire and Stewart's Revolutionary War camp equipage. Several documents record information about the furnishings of Stewart's home. Most of the bills for these items are from London merchants and stores. One, dated in London on October 4, 1787, provides details of a number of pieces of furniture, including "a large Mahogany Wardrobe with folding pannell'd Doors & sliding shelves at top sundry Drawers in the bottom finish'd with inlaid patterns & gothic Cornice good brass Locks & c." There are also several manuscripts that enumerate kitchenware that Stewart purchased in London and Liverpool. Finally, a list entitled "Inventory of Genl. Stewart's Furniture with what it Cost and what it should bring" indicate how his house was furnished. Several documents are indicitive of what constituted Mrs. Stewart's wardrobe. For instance, on April 30, 1782, she paid for a dark chintz dress, a white mantua habit and coat, a white satin coat, two circassian dresses, an olive mantua circassian dress, and alterations and trimming of a brocade robe. One manuscript is from Stewart's military career. In 1773, he spent £28 for a camp bedstead and chest, a trunk with brass nails covered with calf skin, locks, and general camp equipage.

111 items.

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