Collection: King family papers | Special Collections & Archives

Scope and Contents

Contains approximately fifty letters written by and to the King family of Dayton, Ohio. In addition to the letters written by family members, there are eleven letters from Helen Elie Smith, a onetime girlfriend of Robert Jr., and others from friends and extended family members. Early letters show the late engagement and young married life of Mr. and Mrs. King and include the letters they wrote to their young children while traveling. Many letters were written by the children during their years in various New England boarding schools. The sons also wrote of their experiences in the armed forces during World War II. Louis was stationed in New Orleans while Robert Jr. trained to be a pilot for the Air Transport Command in Las Vegas, New Mexico. The collection also includes newspaper clippings featuring various grandchildren, a telegram, a postcard, and promotional material for commemorative stamps.

Dates

1899-1977
Majority of material found within 1924 - 1944

Conditions Governing Access

none

Biographical / Historical

The King family of Dayton, Ohio, included Robert S. King, his wife Helen King, and their children Robert Jr., Louis, and Helen. King Sr. held a high-level position for Standard Oil and was constantly traveling for business, often with Helen, to other U.S. states and Europe. The children attended various boarding schools. Helen settled in Dayton, Ohio, while Robert Jr. owned a ranch in Wyoming. Both Robert Jr. and Louis joined the armed forces at the beginning of World War II.

Extent

0.2 Linear Feet

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Overview

Collection contains mostly personal correspondence among the King family of Dayton, Ohio, in addition to letters from assorted friends and relatives, newspaper clippings, and other items.