Benjamin K. Smith Papers
1935-c.1980s
Benjamin K. Smith
As a young man, Benjamin Smith worked for several manufacturers of upholstery, furniture, and undertakers’ supplies in Wisconsin and Illinois. Continuing in sales, he worked for W.K. Cowan and Co., Chicago antique dealers and furniture restorers. Smith left that firm in 1907 to work with several art, fine silver and china dealers. In 1924, he opened his own business, providing appraisal and authentication services to many of Chicago’s society families. The bulk of the collection consists of appraisals and related correspondence, organized by client name. Personal correspondence, memorabilia, and miscellaneous publications complete the collection.
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Holograph papers, printed papers and black and white photographic prints.