Scope and Content Note
The papers of the family of John Warren Williams (1815-1843) span the years 1839-1895. The collection consists of a diary of Williams, an account book kept by his brother, George F. Williams; a travel journal of a European trip by Martha Ann Tilton Williams (Mrs. George F. Williams), 1894-1895; photographs; a letter; scrapbook; and printed matter.
The diary of John Warren Williams, 1839-1842, reflects his commercial interest engaged principally in the importation of flour. It contains notes about the entrance of ships and their cargoes at Boston and New York and remarks on notable events such as the arrival of Great Western (steamship) in New York from Bristol on May 3, 1840, with many passengers, including dancer Fannie Elssler, who later performed in Boston. Other historical events recorded include a meeting the next day of the National Young Men’s Whig Club Convention at Baltimore.