Henry Varnum Poor papers, 1873-2001, bulk 1904-1970

Henry Varnum Poor's correspondence documents his personal life and professional activities in a number of fields. Correspondents include family and friends, among them George Biddle, Charles Burchfield, John Ciardi, Marion V. Dorn (who became his second wife), Philip Evergood, Lewis Mumford, John Steinbeck, David Smith, and Mrs. John Work (Alice) Garrett. Other correspondents are individuals representing galleries, museums, schools, and organizations. There is fan mail from readers of his books, and letters from former students and colleagues, as well as friends and acquaintances from his military service and travels.

Family correspondence consists mainly of incoming letters from Henry to his parents Albert J. and Josephine Poor about his education, travels, World War I experiences, and his teaching and painting career. Scattered throughout are letters from his wife Bessie Breuer Poor to his parents, and from Anne and Peter. Correspondence between Albert and Josephine Poor was written in 1911 while she was traveling in Europe with Henry. Also found are letters from other relatives and friends. A few letters are addressed to Lena Wiltz, Henry Varnum Poor's first wife. After the death of Josephine Poor circa 1940, Poor's letters are addressed to his sister Eva and her husband Herbert Stone. Josephine Poor's relatives, the Graham family, are represented by a small number of 19th century letters.

Nineteenth century letters are from Josephine Poor's relatives, the Graham family. Items post-dating Poor's lifetime consist of condolence letters, correspondence regarding Poor's papers and writings, estate matters, loans, and exhibitions.

Professional correspondence is arranged alphabetically and is followed by condolence and estate related letters. Poor family correspondence is arranged chronologically by sender.

Researchers should note that genealogical correspondence and related notes are found with biographical materials (Series 1). Additional correspondence is included among the subject files (Series 4).

This series has been scanned in its entirety.