Whole No. 9
Imprint Oregon
:
i/o) 6
Fall 1981
No. 1-2
Bowing over her hand, he did not know whether to curse the crack in his shoe for shaming
him before her, or to bless it for having been the cause of his being where he was.
SHOW BOAT by EDNA FERBER
Woman's Home Companion, June 1926, Page 25
A Correspondence Guide to the
Frederic Rodrigo Gruger Collection
Frederic Rodrigo Gruger, 1871-1953,
was one of the leading magazine artists
and illustrators of the early 20th century.
He pursued his formal education at the
Academy of the Fine Arts in Philadel.
phia and was especially influenced hs the
work of notable 19th century illustrators
such as Edwin A. Abbey. Charles lienhart and Charles Keene. Fle began his
rareer as an artist for various Philadel.
phia newspapers, including the Public
Ledger, in 1891. Here he developed the
photographic memory and eye for detail
Post in 1898. Thus began the long and
which later enabled him to draw convincing illustrations without the assistance oi
including Henry Raleigh and Arthur William Brown. He won several awards for
his work and often received appreciative
letters from authors whose stories he had
illustrated.
models.
His first illustrations for a magazine
serial appeared in the Saturday Evening
2
successful association with the Post which
was to win Gruger recognition as one of
the to1) artist-illustrators of his day. During the peak of the illustrated magazine
era. Gruger provided drawings for hun-
cireds of stories in magazines such c
Leslie's, American illustrated, Collier's-
the Century. Harper's. Ladies I/ante
Jaurnal and many others. He was noted
for his careful and imaginative rendering
of character and atmosphere and was
emulated by a number of other artists,
Imprint: Ore gon
This issue of Imprint:Oregon is a
in one letter may be reintroduced and/or
guide to correspondence in the Gruger
Collection of the University of Oregon
Library. The Gruger correspondence is
extensive and provides insight not only
into Gruger's career and goals, but into
the process of magazine publication and
amplified in a later letter. We have attempted to let correspondents speak for
the status of art during the first half of the
20th century.
The guide is not intended to be an exhaustive presentation of every letter in the
Gruger collection. Instead, we have selected letters representative of the best
material to be found in the correspondence. Included are letters containing
Gruger's statements about art and his
artistic goals; characterizations of or
comments by other artists, editors and
authors of Gruger's acquaintance; information regarding Gruger's activities at
various times and occasionally events of
interest in Gruger's family or personal
themselves, often using colloquial expres-
sions of the day, in order to maintain as
much of the original flavor of the letters
as possible.
The Gruger Collection has served as
the basis of the biography and critical
study of F. R. Gruger, entitled F. R. Gru-
ger and His Circle: The Golden Age of
American Illustration by Bennard Perlman, published by Van Nostrand Reinhold and available for $14.95 from North
Light Publishers, 37 Franklin, Westport,
Connecticut, 06880.
Frederic R. Gruger, Jr., donor of the
library's F. R. Gruger Collection, has
provided the financial support for this
issue of Imprint:Oregon.
EDWARD KEMP
life.
Over two-thirds of the correspondence
in the collection is between Gruger and
his wife, Florence, and/or his three children. The family was extremely close and
all had a deep interest in art idaughter
Elizabeth became an artist and illustrator,
son F. H. "Ted" Jr. developed his own
art and graphics business after some
years in the corporate business world and
daughter Dorothy worked in the Art Department of the Saturday Evening Post).
They wrote to each other extensively
when separated; these family letters contain some of Gruger's clearest and most
detailed statements about art and his contemporaries.
In this guide, full names of correspondents in each letter are not provided each
time. An index is appended which should
assist readers in locating specific correspondents.
The guide, prepared by Cheryl Roffe,
is designed to be read or scanned chronologically. People and topics mentioned
Pall 1981
Imprint : Oregon
Vol. 6
Fall 1981
Whole No. 9
No. 1-2
Published by the University of Oregon Library
Business Manager: EDWARD KEMP
Price $4.00
Front Cover Illustration
"Peshawar appaled me. Anything could happen
there. A wicked town"
BFJIIND THAT CURTAIN
by EARL DERR BIGGERS
The Saturday Evening Post, March 31, 1928,
Page 3
A Correspondence Guide to the
Frederic Rodrigo Gruger
Collection
Edward Kemp
2
F. R. Gruger: Five Decades of the
History of American Illustration
Cheryl Roffe
4
Index to Correspondents
52
3
F. R. Gruger: Five Decades of
the History of American Illustration
All letters selected and summarized by
Cheryl Roffe in this text were written to
F. R. Gruger unless otherwise specified.
TLS
An attempt was made to maintain the
AL
original flavor of the letters and to impose
only those editorial comments deemed
absolutely necessary. We have chosen to
abbreviate as follows:
ALS Autograph (handwritten) letter
with signature or initials.
1891
April 29
Gruger.
Gruger to Florence
Contains sketches of vase and design
in pen and ink. Envelope addressed in
stylized print. 1 p. (Sketch)
1891 August 3 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Enclosure states the letter is as nearly
like an old-fashioned letter as FRG
could make it. Done in special lettering on parchment. 1 p. ALS
1891 August 13 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Written in special script. Says he enclosed drawings from the last issue of
the Philadelphia Press. "Like all my
work they are so bad that I sincerely
hope you cast them from thee when
thou hast perused them." Enclosed ac
tual drawings because he did not think
her father would approve of him sending the entire paper to her. 2 pp. ALS
1905 December 15 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Introduced by John Weygandt to
American Art Association of Paris,
where he is staying. Was astonished
to find himself "perfectly well known"
to them; they even had some of his
paintings on the wall. Describes Hol4
Typed letter with signature or ini-
tials. This includes carbons or
photocopies.
TL
C
FRG
Autograph (handwritten) letter
with no signature or initials.
Typed letter or carbon with no
signature or initials.
Card.
Frederic Rodrigo Gruger.
land. 3 pp. ALS
1905 December20 Grugerto Florence
Gruger.
Is in Paris on business; describes how
people are more responsive to music
than Americans. Is receiving many invitations into society, which does not
interest him greatly. 3 pp. ALS
1905 December25 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
At Haarlem Museum, FRG was recog-
nized as an artist. He was taken to a
back room by the curator and allowed
to look at a portfolio of sketches by
Michaelangelo. 15 pp. ALS
1906 January 1 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Explains his slow progress on work; it
takes much longer to travel in Europe
and one cannot cover as much ground.
Century magazine has asked him to
"hustle" the first installment. 3 pp. ALS
January 8 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Work has not gone as well as he hoped.
1906
Light is poor; it is dark until late in
the morning and after 3:00 p.m. Artificial light is not available until 4:30
p.m. Will have to rush through drawings when he returns home. 3 pp. ALS
Imprint: Oregon
December 6 Century Co. to
Florence Gruger.
see if "no perfectly human emotion
The company wants Mrs. Gruger to
know of their admiration for FRG's
'Illustrating machine'." After half an
hour of "the most extraordinary conversation" they left defeated. FRG
made five compositions for a Mary
Roberts Rinehart story for Colliers.
1912
work; everybody in the office thinks he
is "a wonderful man." 1 p. TLS
1914 February 2 Gruger to Florence
Gruger. (FRG's family is in
Bermuda.)
Mentions that R. E. Cropley had a
nightmare that the ship he was to take
sank. He took a train instead and his
ship did sink. Everyone was wonder.
ing "why the duce (sic) should the
Lord warn Cropley, anyway?" 3 pp.
ALS
1914 February 9
Gruger.
Gruger to Florence
Drawings are going fine; will have
made $800.00 since leaving Bermuda.
Still has "a bushel more to do." Talks
about new art editor at Century magazine. Says Whittle should have gotten
the job as he is the "very best man in
the business without a doubt." Praises
restaurants as sources of inspiration
for artists; they are good places "to
secure the services of otherwise unob-
tainable and most choice models."
Comments on large crowd gathered
around "sumptuous" E. A. Abbey
painting at Metropolitan Museum of
Art exhibition. 27 pp. ALS
1914
February 13 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Comments on life in New York, "Gaiety
is the watchword, these days and to
spend money and be seen, and envied
by the less 'fortunate' is the ideal for
which many, indeed most, seem to
strive." FRG wants to be envied only
for his family. Although he likes to
make money, "it seems rather more
appropriate . . .to apologize for financial success." A group from the Illu.
strator's Society came to get him
"soused;" they were under orders to
Fall 1981
could be found in the otherwise known
Then went to opera with Johnny (John
R.) Neill. Was FRG's intent to throw
a-n egg at Enrico Caruso, but his voice
was so fine "your arm loses its strength
and your purpose fades away." 24 pp.
ALS
1914
February 14 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
John R. Neill admires the sheet of
paper that FRG uses to throw matches
and garbage on while he is drawing.
FRG talks about use of models: "I do
not believe in using models direct in
one's work," but does believe in study-
ing models in various situations to
get light effects. Went to Dutch Treat
Club dinner and show at Delmonico's;
he and Herbert Johnson were guests
of Arthur William Brown. Saw James
Montgomery Flagg, who is "loved and
hated with equal fierceness and altogether a strange and most remarkable
personality." Flagg wrote the libretto
of the show, a roast of the magazines
which was titled, "Biting the Hand that
Feeds Us." FRG also saw Charles Dana
Gibson, "a nice chap, modest and un-
assuming," Henry Raleigh, a "big,
powerful fellow" and Ellis Parker, au-
thor of "The Little Blind Ass of the
Dobe Mill." Parker told him that he
cried when he wrote the story. 18 pp.
ALS
February 15 May Wilson
Preston.
Says FRG is "awfully" kind to her and
1914
if the Frederick paper suits him, it
should suit her. His drawings in Cen-
tury magazine were wonderful; she
wishes she could capture the atmos5
phere of a room as he does. 1 p. ACS
1914 February 20 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Is having "one of those depressed spells
that come before a headache." Went
to Illustrator's (Society) dinner and
play; "saw lots of the boys," including
Owen Johnson, who was surprisingly
friendly. The play was clever and
handed out some severe "roasts," including Charles Dana Gibson and Gruger as targets. Describes plot of show
and the joke regarding himself. 15 pp.
ALS
1914 March 6
Gruger.
Gruger to Florence
Had lunch at the Dutch Treat Club,
where "conversation is fast and furious
and it keeps one very much on the alert
to follow and maintain." Sold a pencil
sketch and bought a "sumptuous"
dress suit with the money. Went to
dinner party at Arthur William
Brown's and saw Henry Raleigh, Irma
Devereaux, Miss McMein (Neysa)
and H. J. Mowat. Mowat has been liv.
ing in London, but will be visiting in
Montreal for a time. John R. Neill's
brother, a successful business type, is
engaged to the daughter of a millionaire. Cropley read a part of his newest
book, an account of fine old steamships whose day is past. It is the best
thing Cropley has written, "earnest and
worthwhile." 18 pp. ALS
1914 March 10 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Had visit with Henry Raleigh and Ar-
thur William Brown. FRG saw fifty
drawings of Raleigh's and of his hang-
ing on Brown's walls; it was a good
experience for him. FRG saw that some
of his drawings were vastly better and
some much worse than he thought; he
is going to work to fix problems. Artists are now complaining because paper of a decent quality for drawing is
6
hard to obtain. After much effort, FRG
has found a pencil which is "smooth as
silk," making it possible to draw on
very bad paper and still get good results. "So Raleigh and Brown and the
rest have streaked down and there isn't
another pencil of that make to be
had." Raleigh visited in FRG's studio
and examined his drawings; he said
he (Raleigh) was going home to
"sketch his head off." 15 pp. ALS
November 21 Henry Sydnor
Harrison.
1914
Would like to thank FRG for admir-
able pictures for last installment of
"Angela's Business" in Metropolitan
magazine. Makes suggestion that An-
is somewhat larger and more
forceful than pictured, but believes
gela
FRG has illuminated and enriched his
text. 1 p. TLS
1915 February 4 May Wilson Preston.
Writes to tell how much she enjoys
FRG's illustrations; she particularly
liked those for Harry Wilson's story,
"Ruggles." I p. ALS
1915
November 4 F. M. Gould
(Metropolitan Magazine).
Thinks illustrations done for the Fannie Hurst story are the best FRG has
ever done for Metropolitan. 1 p. TLS
1915
November 4 Carl Hovey
(Metropolitan Magazine).
FRG provided very fine pictures for
Fannie Hurst's "Through a Glass
Darkly." Pictures have "character aud
romantic charm and attractiveness."
1 p. TLS
1915 November 8 Stephen Whitman
to Mr. Bradley.
FRG's illustrations for one of Whitman's stories are delightful; the portrayal of the garden is startlingly like
the original. Whitman would like the
drawing, if possible. 1 p. ALS
1915 November 18 Stephen Whitman.
Compliments FRG on recent drawing.
Imprint: Oregon
There was nothing of romance about it. It was a thing of prosaic routine.
A KING AMONG KINGS by HARRY LEON WILSON
The Saturday Evening Post
April 25th, 194
Says girls especially give "fine suggestion of charm and naivety (sic) ." 1 p.
ALS
1915 December 3
K. M. Goode
(Saturday Evening Post).
When FRG finishes "The Rosy Light
of Dawn," he is engaged by "Mr. Lori-
mer's special orders" to illustrate a
Harry Leon Wilson story. 1 p. TLS
1915 December 4 Will Bradley,
Typography and Illustration.
Drawings are "perfectly corking." Get-
ting them ahead of time will enable
Bradley to have extra engravings on
the plates and to put them into a special insert form. 1 p. TLS
1916 January 18 Stephen Whitman.
Apologizes for the "junk" which was
sent to FRG; explains that it was all
done with humor and was not intended
to be directed at FRG. Likes FRG's
pictures, but gives suggestions about
what he would like to see portrayed in
next installment. 3 pp. ALS
1916 February 16 Harold James
Mowat.
Is sorry that FRG is having trouble
with the paper for drawing. Says he is
trying something new at the moment,
but fears nothing will fill the bill as
the "old stuff does." Looks forward
to seeing FRG at the Dutch Treat Club.
Fall 1981
2 pp. ALS
1916 March 10
Charles Hanson
Towne (McClure's Magazine).
Says story (unidentified) is so gory
that he wants FRG to keep pictures as
pleasant as possible. Is afraid they
have published so much war stuff that
readers may be tired of it. 1 p. TLS
1916 March 24 William Wallace
Clarke.
Illustrator for the American Boy sends
FRG some of his work for criticism;
tells about himself in letter. 3 pp. ALS
March 24 George Weston.
Says ever since he took pen in hand it
has been his ambition to have a story
illustrated by FRG. Will keep on writing in hopes that FRG will illustrate
for him again. 1 p. TLS
1916 April 1 William Wallace Clarke.
Clarke, illustrator for American Boy,
writes life-story, training and experiences, apparently in response to questions by FRG. 4pp. ALS
1916 April 6 Stephen Whitman.
Says that now that the "smoke of battle" has cleared away, he thanks FRG
for his good pictures which certainly
enhance the value of Whitman's book.
1916
Apologizes for misunderstanding;
hopes they can smile at each other in
the future. 1 p. ACS
7
1916
April 12
Walter H. Dower, Art
Editor (Saturday Evening Post).
Drawings for "The Missing Seventeen"
came in; they are "splendid." 1 p. TLS
1916 April 13 Francis Megler
(Youth's Companion).
They are delighted with FRG's drawing for "A Late Transplanting." Ask
if FRG can make drawing for a new
story they are forwarding. 1 p. TLS
1916 April 17 R. T. Hale (Small,
Maynard & Co.).
They are going to publish a book in
the middle of summer; think FRG's
illustrations will be particularly suitable. Want to know how many pictures
he would provide for $200.00. 1
TLS
1916 April 25
p.
R. T. Hale (Small,
Maynard & Co.).
P. Adams and Dorothy Parker. 1 p.
TLS
1916 May 19
F. M. Gould
(Metropolitan Magazine).
Pictures for the Sapinsky story are fine,
except for the picture of the little girl
on the floor who is portrayed as too
tiny and too young. Can FRG change
these things without changing the composition of the picture? 1 p. TLS
1916 May 22 Walter H. Dower
(Saturday Evening Post).
Is hoping for the illustrations which
were expected, the Cousin Egbert draw.
ings. Another Harry Leon Wilson story
is waiting. 2 pp. TLS
1916 May 24 John R. Neill.
Neill's note to FRG is attached to cryp-
Are willing to abide by FRG's terms;
will pay $225.00 for three full page
tic letter to Neil! asking where the
illustrations. The pictures must be
thoroughly worked out and "amply
Neil! tells FRG he (Neil!) does not
filled" with characters. Final book title
undecided. 1 p. TLS
1916 May 1 Parker (Ladies Home
Journal).
Was pleased to get illustration for
"The Faith of a Woman" on time. FRG
"certainly can illustrate, and then
some." Is sending new galley proof for
which he needs three illustrations. 1 p.
TLS
1916 May 5 William Rose Benét,
Art Editor (Century Magazine).
Greatly admires one of FRG's illustra-
tions for Stephen Whitman's story,
"Children of Hope." (Century, May
issue.) Wants to know what FRG
would charge for the original. 1 p. TLS
1916 May 11 Rutherford Boyd, Art
Editor (Everybody's Magazine).
Says the figures ERG described to him
when he and John Neil! visited were
published in the August 1914 issue.
Encloses duplicate set which he hopes
8
will be of use. Accompanied by nega.
tives of George H. Lorimer, Franklin
"Valley of the Sorceress" pictures are.
get paid until he turns FRG's drawing
in. 1 p. TLS
1916 May 28 Edison Marshall.
Compliments ERG for his illustrations
for Marshall's story, "The Missing Seventeen." FRG portrayed the characters
exactly as Marshall had in mind. 1 p.
TLS
1916 May 29 Will Bradley,
Typography and Illustration.
Some of FRG's drawings were used in
book (in addition to the magazine serial) and Bradley remembers that FRG
expects extra payment for that. Mr.
Abbott says that in the past payment
for magazine rights included payment
for book rights also. Abbott hopes they
do not have to suffer for Mr. Whitman's change in attitude. 1 p. TLS
1916 June 1 Frank Crowninshield
(The Coffee House, New York).
Invitation to ERG to become a member
of The Coffee House, "intended to pro.
vide a moderate priced eating and
Imprint: Oregon
meeting place for men who are inter-
ested in the arts." Dues are $25.00;
lists members. 2pp. TLS
1916 June 2 William Rose Benét
(Century Magazine).
Says it is extremely kind of FRG to ask
Benét to accept picture (see letter of
5/5/16). Does not know how to thank
him. lp.ALS
1916 June 6 E. L. Faber (Eberhard
Faber Co.).
Tells FRG he is mailing some sample
drawing crayons. Describes quality
and uses; wants FRG's opinion and
any advantages he notices. 1 p. TLS
1916 June 11 Clarence Clough Buel
(Century Magazine).
Is delighted with the picture from
Stephen Whitman's "Children of Hope"
which was sent to him by FRG. Buel
says he knew Gruger would go far because of the standard he set for himself. (See letter of 6/20/16) . 3 pp. ALS
1916
June 13 Will Bradley,
Typography and Illustration.
Thinks FRG's letter covers the situation (see 5/29/16) perfectly. Will certainly send FRG another story when he
has one that need not be hurried. 1 p.
TLS
1916 June 13
"Lo" Faber (Eberhard
Faber Co.).
Thanks FRG for his prompt and favorable reply to drawing crayon samples.
Hopes to be able to produce crayon in
a few years if they can get material
from abroad. 1 p. TLS
1916 June 14 William Wallace
Clarke.
Appreciated FRG's letter of advice;
Clarke's case could not have been better diagnosed. Appreciates FRG's orig-
inal illustration and discusses FRG's
technique in comparison with his own.
Clarke hopes to find another source of
revenue than illustrating for American
Boy. 3 pp. ALS
Fall 198]
June 19 Charles Hanson Towne
(McClure's Magazine).
Reports desire of Porter Emerson
Browne for two of FRG's illustrations
for Browne's story, "Somewhere In..."
Browne thought pictures were wonder-
1916
ful. lp.TLS
June20 William Rose Benét
1916
(Century Magazine).
Apologizes for his "stupidity" in not
noticing that FRG had misconstrued
his name. The picture Benét had asked
for went to Mr. Buel. (See letter of
6/11/16.) Benét says it teaches him a
lesson about his handwriting. 1 p. ALS
1916 July 13 Harry Stehman Jr.
(New Era Office).
Asks for sketch of FRG's career so they
may publish it in art column of New
Era magazine. 1 p. TL
1916 July 15 Will Bradley, Typog-
raphy and Illustration.
Has talked with Mr. Abbott about
FRG's check for book rights; they
would ordinarily spend $200.00 for
illustrations for a book. H this is not
enough, FRG is to send bill. Bradley is
only acting as a go-between. 1 p. TLS
1916 July 15 "Lo" Faber (Eberhard
Faber Co.).
Is sending FRG more samples of draw-
ing pencils. Says if they "turn out
rather roughly and off shape, it is due
to the fact that I literally made them
myself." 1 p. TLS
1916 August 21 Hanna Rion Ver
Beck.
Says Gustave Ver Beck has become a
sculptor and his works are handled by
the army and navy, Harrod's and Selfridge. She saw two copies oi the Sat-
urday Evening Post; FRG's work is
growing in power and genius. 1 p. TLS
1920 March 1 Gruger to Florence
Gruger. (FRG's family is in
Florida and the South).
Complains about headache developed
9
"Zat ees funny too. Now zat I die you talk of money and prison."
JERMYM THE MUNIFICENT by JULIAN HINKLEY
The Saturday Evening Post
December 5th, 1914, Page 5
strators damn show whichever you
Florida).
Got home late last night; there was
like." Saw a lot of men he knew. 4 pp.
large class at the Art Students League
at "damn Illustrators show or the IlluALS
1920 March 2
Gruger.
which kept him "hanging around."
Gruger to Florence
Has finished three drawings for Saturday Evening Post; Ryan will take
them down for him. Is going to talk
at the Art Students League; will see
if he can get out of teaching the rest of
his course there. 4pp. ALS
1920 March 3 Gruger to Florence
Gruger. (FRG's family is in
10
Dudley G. Summers and his boss were
there. 4pp. ALS
1920 March 3 Gruger to Florence
Gruger. (Second letter).
Franklin Booth has disappeared, so
FRG did not dine with him. Neysa
(McMein) gave FRG candy; she had
all her dental work done the day before. Said it was five days dental work
in three hours. 4pp. ALS
Imprint: Oregon
1920
March 5
Gruger.
Gruger to Florence
FRG describes his normal daily routine, including work routines. Ended
day playing dominoes with Franklin
Booth. 3pp. ALS
1920 March 9 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Will be impossible for FRG to join
family in Florida; so much work coming in the sacrifice of time would mean
"well beyond a thousand dollars." The
bad time he had when the family left
is over; he wouM feel guilty if he stopped now. 4pp. ALS
1920
March 11
Gruger.
Gruger to Florence
Describes a busy day and all the artists he saw: George Lukes (a painter)
on the bus, Arthur William Brown
whom FRG lectured on "how not to be
a nut," Neysa McMein, whose teeth
were bothering her and John R. Neill,
who wanted to know the price of their
house. Had dinner with Franklin
Booth. 4pp. ALS
1920 March 12 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Dinner at Arthur William Brown's.
"Brownie" made four photographic
portraits of FRG and showed him some
made of others, including James Mont-
gomery Flagg as Abraham Lincoln.
McKeogh stopped by and said Walter
H. Dower was out of the Art Editor
job at the Post, which FRG regrets. 4
pp. ALS
1920 March 13
Gruger to Florence
Is amazed by size of his class at Art
Students League. FRG is teaching one
man for whom he makes drawings, plus
the head of a large advertising firm
and his entire staff. FRG is working on
advertising drawing. A young man
named Cutler sent him etchings for
Christmas. 5pp. ALS
Pail 1981
1920
March 15
Gruger.
Gruger to Florence
Is working on advertising drawings
such as Arrow collars, O'Sullivan heels,
etc. Work is going well. 2 pp. TLS.
1920 March 21 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Describes play at Dutch Treat Club.
James Montgomery Flagg played Ab-
raham Lincoln, Orson Lowell was
George Washington and "Bill" Walker
was Henry VIII. John R. Neill and his
wife are interested in buying the Gruger home. 6pp. ALS
1920 March 23 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Went to Dutch Treat Club dinner at
Delmonico's; ate with Grant Rice, Rex
Beach, Charlie Williams, Mr. Roberts,
Arthur William Brown, James M.
Flagg and Flagg's father. Elder Mr.
Flagg looks younger than Jim, who
introduced him as his son. 3 pp. ALS
April 6 Gruger to Florence
1921
Gruger.
Brinkershoff came in with a bunch of
"appalling" drawings; FRG says he belongs on a newspaper. FRG gave him
all the help he could. FRG did one of
his best drawings for a George Moore
story. Had unusual experience of making drawing from scratch without using his eraser once. The picture was
sharp in his mind. 16 pp. ALS
1921
September Florence Gruger.
(FRG's family is in England.)
FRG has just left England; family
misses him. They are going into London to see Lord Dunsany's play, "If."
8 pp. ALS
October 11 Little, Brown & Co.
Ask FRG if he would be willing to illu-
1921
strate "The Sentimental Progressions
of Skippy Bedelle," Owen Johnson's
new book. Both Little, Brown and
Johnson want FRG; they ask him to
state his terms. 1 p. TL
11
1921
October 12
Florence Gruger.
Talks about Harold Copping's business problems. He wants to sell his
Bible illustrations in the U. S., but is
on a three month contract to British
publisher; they are trying to sell his
drawings also and do not want him to
compete. 8pp. ALS
1921 October 19 Grattan 0. Condon
(Good Housekeeping).
Encloses complete manuscript for "The
Tale of Triona," divided into install-
ments. Wants to talk over result of
FRG's trip to Washington. 1 p. TLS
1921 October 28 Walter H. Dower
(Ladies Home Journal).
Pruitt Carter will be happy to let FRG
have drawing of Carter's which FRG
had requested. 1 p. TLS
1921 October Gruger to Mildred
Capen Bowen.
Will send drawings. Has talked to Mr.
Cohn; he can rearrange and redraw
pictures. Small drawings are free; large
drawing is $400.00 gross. If the smaller
drawings are used in any other way
than intended, there will be charges of
$50.00 for the heads and $25.00 for
the still life. 1 p. AL
October 30 Mildred Capen
1921
Bowen.
It is kind of FRG to get out the work
for the Palmolive Co. so promptly;
she will be looking for it. 1 p. TL
1921 November Elizabeth Gruger.
Talks about Harold Copping's criticisms of her still life; her basic problem at this time is unfamiliarity with
her pigments. Copping told her to be
glad when she is able to find a mistake in her own work. 17 pp. ALS
1921 November 1 Florence Gruger.
Talks about plan for FRG to illustrate
the "summer wanderings" of Porter
in England, for Century magazine.
1921 November 9 Florence Gruger.
12
Asks FRG how he managed to keep his
studio without having the rent raised;
how do others in the building feel
about this? Harold Copping wants to
know about method of payment of
Ladies Home Journal; he has not been
paid yet. Asks if "the Century scheme"
has entirely fallen through. 10 pp. ALS
1921 November 10 Gruger to Ted
Gruger.
Apologizes for not being able to attend
Yale football game; all the family is
interested in Ted's interests. FRG has
accomplished a tremendous amount of
work, but little of it has been paid for.
2 pp. ALS
1921 November 14 Mildred Capen
Bowen.
Apologizes for putting FRG's mind in
a state of uncertainty about frieze. Mr.
Lowy felt FRG's price was too high
($1000.00) and left town before Bowen
could talk with him. Lowy and Pearce
were delighted with shaving cream
sketches and want more. 1 p. TL
November 15 Walter H. Dower
(Ladies Home Journal).
Understands "Christmas Light" story
is to be published in book form; FRG
1921
did some illustrations for it which
were never used and Dower thinks he
might want to try selling them to this
publisher. 1 p. TLS
1921 November 15 Florence Gruger.
Wants FRG to have secretary make an
inventory of his drawings and drawings he has received from other artists;
she does not want to lose any as some
have been promised to her. Says the
Palmolive advertisements and the
watercolors for Dower must be lovely,
especially if FRG likes them, since he's
hard to please. 14 pp. ALS
1921 November 15 Elizabeth Gruger.
Discusses progress of her art and the
criticism she is receiving from Harold
Copping (in England). Says Copping
Imprint: Oregon
had Sir Rodger and Lady Gregory over
to tea; they saw a Gruger hanging on
the wall and thought it was Copping's.
He said he had not been so complimented in years. 13 pp. ALS
1921 November 17 Florence Gruger.
Hopes that the paintings he did for
Dower will secure him the commission
so he can be with the family longer.
Worries that if Kidder does the Pal.
molive ad successfully for FRG, he
will win away their business and will
not be willing to hand over the money
to FRG. Says everything should be in
writing. 12 pp. ALS
1921 November 17 Florence Gruger.
Lord Dunsany is having four new short
plays produced. "If" is no longer playing. 3 pp. ALS
1921 November 18 Florence Gruger.
Discusses psychoanalysis with FRG.
Says FRG accepts some conventions,
rules and opinions of others in art;
why does he reject them in moral and
spiritual areas? The picture FRG gave
Harold Copping is framed and hanging by the door in Copping's studio.
18 pp. ALS
1921 November 21
Arthur McKeogh
(Saturday Evening Post).
Says "Nobody understands Einstein
when he talks about relativity; but
everyone understands Gruger when he
draws about it." The Post likes the
change in the "Winter Bell" picture.
1 p. TLS
1921 November Gruger to Mildred
Capen Bowen.
Is sending two major and some minor drawings for Palmolive Shaving
Cream. Has not been well in past two
weeks, hence the delay. Would like
check forwarded as soon as possible.
Is leaving for England and money must
get there before he does. Copy for other
drawings is to be forwarded to England. 1 p. AL
Pall 1981
1921
November 23
Mildred Capen
Bowe.n.
Layouts have received approval from
Mr. Lowy at Lord & Thomas. Discusses
getting layouts back to FRG and process of pricing them. Mr. Lowy says he
can get check to FRG in one day, if
necessary, since FRG is leaving shortly. 1 p. TLS
1921 November 30 Karl Harriman
(Red Book Magazine) Wants pictures in "reasonable length
of time" in exchange for sending new
story at once. Wants to know if he can
have originals of those FRG sent photographs of from London. 1 p. TLS
1921 November 30 Gruger to Karl
Harriman (Red Book Magazine) Explains that delay in getting out pictures is due to FRG taking a two month
holiday. Is sailing for England in December. Is willing to send both photos
and drawings to Harriman. 2 pp. AL
December 6 Harold Copping.
Sends cover note and receipt for pay-
1921
ment; FRG paid 92 pounds (plus 9
shillings and 3 pence) for publishing
rights for drawing "The Skylark" in
Ladies Home Journal. 2 pp. ALS
1921 December 6 Karl Harriman
(Red Book Magazine).
Is sending delightful Wallace Irwin
story to FRG; suggests that he send
photographs rather than original drawings from England as it will be safer.
1 p. TLS
1921 December 8 J. Vernon
McKenzie (Maclean's Magazine).
J. Murray Gibbon will be happy to
provide transportation for FRG from
Vancouver to Montreal; will not be
able to do so for family. Wishes him
"hon voyage on next trip." 1 p. TLS
1921 December Gruger to Mildred
Capen Bowen.
Is sending two more Palmolive draw-
ings; treated the illustrations as seri13
ous art and tried to put out of his mind
any idea of this as "commercial art."
Discusses image of the chemist that he
was trying to portray. Thinks it might
be good idea to retain character of
chemist throughout. 2 pp. AL
1921 December 12 Mildred Capen
Bowen.
Drawings received. She is awaiting
call from Milwaukie Palmolive. Hopes
to deliver pictures next day; the work
is delightful. Will send check to FRG's
New York address. Telegram.
1922 February 11 Karl Harriman
(Red Book Magazine) to Lucille
Fish, FRG's secretary.
Has received photographs; wants to
know if FRG will be able to start on
six-part serial immediately when he re-
turns home in March. Would be willing to wait if there is any possibility
of this. Miss Fish's response in pencil
at bottom of page states she is sure
FRG will be able to do this. 1 p. TLS
1922 February Lucille Fish to Karl
Harriman (Red Book Magazine).
Is sending photographs she received
from FRG; FRG will bring the rest
back on the boat. If Harriman receives
his set, it should go to Miss Fish, as
FRG wants a set for himself. 1 p. ALS
February 28 Arthur McKeogh
to Lucille Fish.
Wants her to tell him what word they
have from FRG on the Cobb serial and
when ERG will return (from England).
1 p. TLS
1922 March 2 Karl Harrima.n (Red
Book Magazine) to Lucie Fish.
1922
Will send first part of six-part serial
for FRG to do upon his return; is due
in April. Wants to know at once if
ERG cannot do it. 1 p. TLS
March 3 Walter Dower
(Ladies Home Journal)
1922
Wants to borrow Copping original
from May Ladies Home Journal for
14
John B. Williams, Supt. of Mechani-
cal Division, to perform four-color
offset printing experiment. Promises
to take FRG out to lunch on Mr. Curtis. 1 p. TLS
March Walter Dower
(Ladies Home Journal).
1922
Wants FRG's copy of the Copping
(illustrated) Bible to give to his oldest boy. Commissions FRG to pick up
two more for W. T. Taylor and Mr.
Currie. Doubts that there will be time
for ERG to do religious series. 2 pp.
ALS
1922 March 7
J. Vernon McKenzie
(Maclean's Magazine) to Lucille
Fish.
Has obtained six ERG originals from
Arthur William Brown for Maclean's;
is sending check for $100; will send
more if necessary. 1 p. TLS
1922 March 11 Karl Harriman (Red
Book Magazine) to Lucie Fish.
Wants FRG's address, so he can see if
FRG will be able to do a particular
story. 1 p. TLS
1922
March 25
Mildred Capen
Bowen.
Welcomes FRG back. Palmolive Co.
is getting restless about drawings but
Neysa (McMein) says he will be bringing them with him. She has two assignments she thinks she can get for FRG.
1 p. TL
1922 April 21 W. B. Pratt,
Houghton Muffin Co.
They are planning to publish Miss
Phillips "Christmas Light" story which
appeared in Ladies Home Journa2;
heard that ERG made drawing for
story which was received too late to
use; they would like to use it now, if
possible. 1 p. TLS
April 26 Ray Long, Editor-inChief (International Magazine
Co.).
1922
Thinks FRG's illustrations for Rita
Imprint: Oregon
Unidentified. A mystery left to our readers. In attempting to establish the magazine or book in which
his father's illustrations occurred, F. R. Gruger, Jr. met with remarkable success. Of the unidentified
hundreds, Ted Gruger located the publication record of all but a few, of which this is a lovely sample.
Fall 1981
15
most beautiful FRG has ever done.
Split picture is particularly inspired.
October 12 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
McKeogh gave FRG new story to illus-
1 p. TLS
1922 May 1 Mildred Capen Bowen.
States terms of agreement between herself and FRG. She will be his agent for
trate. FRG is catching up to schedule
on Post drawings. Wants to get two
weeks ahead so he will have time for
color work. Has to get out of dwelling
Weiman story in Cosmopolitan are the
one year for sale of pictures drawn or
painted by him for advertising purposes. Her territory is in the west, from
Cleveland on; she works in the east
only by his permission. 1 p. TL
1922 May 9 M. Bigelow
(Good Housekeeping Magazine).
Is preparing a "Who's Who" of authors and artists for July issue of Good
Housekeeping; asks Gruger for a few
facts. 1 p. TLS
1922 October 6 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Talks about progress on drawings and
money coming in. Says Bee Wittmack
(sister of Edgar Wittmack) is infatu-
ated with Franklin Booth; thinks it
would be better if she "got over it."
Has drawings for Post and McCall's
under way. 7 pp. ALS
to relieve monotony, particularly when
things go wrong. 2 pp. ALS
1922 October 13 J. Vernon McKenzie
(Maclean's Magazine).
Passes on comment by Henry Payson
Dowst that picture FRG drew for "The
Guest of Tradition" by J. L. Rutledge
is similar to one FRG did for Arthur
Somers Roche story in Colliers years
before. 1 p. TLS
1922 October 17 Gruger to Ted
Gruger.
No hope for FRG to get away for
awhile. Is ahead in his work, but has
color drawing coming up. 1 p. ALS
October 20 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
1922
Arthur William Brown tried to talk
FRG into hearing Doug Fairbanks
speak at Dutch Treat Club; did not go,
but visited "Brownie" after; found a
October 9 Henry B. Quinan
(Woman's Home Companion).
Is sending detective story by J. S. Flet-
drawing all done except for back-
cher; gives specifications for illustrations including color, size and num-
for the show; would have taken him
all afternoon to do the background.
Was just relaxation for FRG. Is hav-
1922
ber. Warns FRG not to forget this
story as he has such a long time to do
it. 1 p. TLS
1922 October 12 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Is working on double page drawing
for Cosmopoliton; is happy because he
has all the work he can do in the time
given; once checks start coming in they
will keep coming. Discusses how much
money he has made. Talks about going
out to dinner with Franklin Booth and
Edgar Wittmack; meeting Neysa McMein. 16 pp. ALS
16
1922
ground, which FRG put in, in fifteen
minutes. That is how Brown saves time
ing "surprising run of luck" in his
drawing; is afraid to stop while it
lasts. Is actually "one story ahead of
the game." Is fresh at night and his
mind works smoothly. Will start Forman's articles soon. James Montgomery Flagg is having an affair and is
mad at Brown for ignoring his mistress at a party. 8 pp. ALS
1922 October 23 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
McKeogh (of Post) visited. FRG
talked with Henry James Forman about
Imprint: Oregon
education; Forman expressed admira-
Eddie Wittmack's painting has been
tion for FRG's daughters. Franklin
accepted by the Academy and he is "so
far up in the clouds that I haven't seen
him since yesterday." Talks about Ar-
Booth is worki.ng on huge pen drawing
of Chicago Tribune Building; is beau-
tiful. Arthur William Brown ("Brow-
nie") and he are hunting paper together; they hope they found some
"that will allow us to make drawings
without going mad with the misbehavior of so paltry a servant." 10 pp. ALS
1922 October 27 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Describes movie of ocean floor which
he saw with Franklin Booth at the Riyou; calls it "exquisite poetry in pic-
ture." Describes his work habits and
attire; makes color drawings during
the day and black and white pictures
at night. 5 pp. TLS
October 31 Gruger to Florence
Gruger. (In France.)
1922
Is finished with one illustration for
Forman, on Malta. Said "It made quite
an impression with the gang" even
though it gave FRG a "rastle" Went
to play, "Captain Applejack," with
Edgar Wittmack. 5 pp. TLS
November 3 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Went to see "Six Characters in Search
oi an Author" with Henry James Forman. Met many artists and writers. Is
sending family $5000 next week. 3 pp.
1922
TLS
1922 November 7 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Describes play he saw in which human
beings are compared to insects. Eddie
Wittmack borrowed socks from him
for a party; bought him a much nicer
pair to pay him back afterwards. 4 pp.
TLS
1922 November 13 Gruger to
Florence Gruger.
thur William and Grace Brown and
their cook, Cordelia. Henry James
Forman is delighted because Harper's
said that FRG's drawings for Forman's
article are the best ever. 8 pp. TLS
1922 November 17 Gruger to
Florence Gruger.
Went to opening of "Merton at the
Movies." Franklin Booth, Neysa Mc-
Mein, Arthur William Brown and
Grant Rice were there. FRG has hired
a new secretary, Miss Herr. His lumbago caught him while he was drawing; he finished but "the last hour of
that drawing seemed to contain an unusual number of minutes." 5 pp. TLS
1922 November 21 Gruger to
Florence Gruger.
Had a severe attack of lumbago. The
Browns and Eddie Wittmack were very
helpful. McKeogh came Friday with a
story that had to be finished Tuesday;
FRG was laid up all Saturday. John
R. Neil! has a man named Fredler who
wants to buy the Gruger home. Neysa
McMein is ill with flu. 6 pp. TLS
1922 November 24 Gruger to
Florence Gruger.
Has just finished drawings for Post;
is about to start some for Red Book.
Mentions Franklin Booth, Eddie Wittmack and Henry J. Forman. 6pp. TLS
1922 November 26 Gruger to
Florence Gruger.
Repeats joke about John R. Neill who
claimed he got up twice each night to
toilet trai.n his children; when he
stayed overnight with Eddie Wittmack,
Eddie claimed Neill got him up twice
tan where alleged witch is rescued from
during night to make Eddie "do it."
FRG had dinner with Arthur W. and
the stake; FRG wishes it were done.
Grace Brown. 4 pp. ALS
Is illustrating a story for Cosmopoli-
Fall 1981
17
1922
December 29 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Describes how he celebrated Christmas
November 27 Gruger to
Florence Gruger.
Talks about impending trip and finan-
1922
cial affairs. Grace Brown's father is
and how he misses his family. Makes
references to Eddie Wittmack, Arthur
W. and Grace Brown and Sally Farnham. Is illustrating a lovely story for
the Post; "simple but beautifully seen
and told." McKeogh is appreciative of
the drawings; said "they were unusual
in conception . . . might fail to be appreciated." 10 pp. TLS
1923 January 1 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Speaks about Dudley Gloyne Summers
going on a voyage and planning to do
five serials (illustrations) as well,
"which only goes to show that he has
much to learn." Complains about New
Year's parties; Eddie Wittmack used
his studio while FRG took refuge in a
hotel. Ethel Watts Mumford came to
the party. Neysa McMein is cultivating
the Vanderbilts. Drawings are not going well on Forman article, section on
Palermo. 5pp. TLS
1923 January 3 Gruger to Florence
dying and she is prostrated by it. 2 pp.
ALS
1922 December 1
Gruger.
Gruger to Florence
Makes plans for sending Ted Gruger
over to rest of family at Christmas;
FRG will be unable to come. Feels he
should wait; in a month he can come
with a clean slate. 8 pp. TLS
December 3 Gruger to Florence
Gruger. (Now in Spain.)
1922
Talks about finances; says Grace
Brown spends more on herself than all
three Gruger women do together, which
"makes Brownie sore." FRG made
drawing for author who lives in Kent,
England; she seemed to picture Shoreham church, so that is what he drew.
Author may be surprised. 3 pp. TLS
1922 December 8 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Discusses coal shortage and impending
winter. Went to lunch with John R.
Neil!; McKeogh stopped by while he
was gone. Spp. TLS
1922 December11 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Dinner with Arthur William Brown;
repeats "scandal" involving Ver Beck
Gruger.
Discusses undependability of checks
received from magazines; only the
Post turn up in a stated period. Wants
to spend time in Spain working on
family. FRG will spend Christmas
watercolors and oils, to gain more experience in color. Had to refuse almost
working; misses family. Discusses financial situation briefly. 4 pp. TLS
1922 December22 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
scopic movies, with which he is not impressed. Bee Wittmack is still pursuing
Had a gloomy spell after Ted (Gruger) left to join family in Gibralter;
got behind in his work and then had
to "hustle." Wants to know what family is doing; "makes me forget the uninteresting succession of pencil strokes
that go to make up the days and weeks
that pass monotonously through this
place." 5 pp. TLS
18
$12,000 worth of work the previous
week. Talks about effects of stereoFranklin Booth; may "land" him yet.
5 pp. TLS
1923 January 9 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Is working on color drawings for
Henry J. Forman article; is giving him
a "tussel." Would not mind if it did
not cost so much; ordinarily FRG
would have a full story done in the
Imprint: Oregon
four days he has worked on one drawing. But wants to "make a reputation"
with color drawings. Went out to eat
with Franklin Booth and Arthur W.
Brown. Devoted day to watercolor
painting and night to advertising drawing. 3 pp. TLS
1923 January 16 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
She will be proud of him when she sees
the picture he made of the market place
in Palermo for the Forman article;
"Forman is thrilled with it" and Harper's likes it. Mentions Sally Farnham's dogs. Had dinner with Arthur
and Grace Brown. FRG is now doing
pen drawings; not so easy as color illustrations. 5 pp. TLS
1923 January 19 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Henry J. Forman visited. Jackson
(Jo?) came in to talk about developing Mr. Cucuolo's idea for stereoscopic
movies. 4pp. TLS
1923 January 23 Henry B. Quinan
(Woman's Home Companion).
Disappointed but they have to publish
"Rippling Ruby" earlier than planned,
by next fall. Must have illustrations for
first part by May 1; want two full
page color illustrations. Several thousand dollars are involved, so they are
sure FRG will do his best to meet the
date set. 1 p. TLS
1923 January 23 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
is working on drawing for lovely story,
which she "will rightly claim." Has
told people that "all drawings belong
to you untill (sic) you have decided
that they are not good enough for you
to accept." Is trying to hasten his
work; "I cannot slap it out as fast as
my lack of artistic morals would permit." Had to turn down $6000 commission from Good Housekeeping, but
"something will arrive to take its
Fall 1981
place." Discusses work and how he
spends his evenings. 4 pp. TLS
1923 January 26 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Comments on Ziegfield Follies; a bore.
John R. Neill fired his servants; also
envies FRG for his wife. 3 pp. TLS
January 29 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
1923
Describes Henry J. Forman and his
wife, and summarizes conversational
topics covered with Sally Farnham.
Saw Evey (Everett) Shinn at the Algonquin. 8 pp. TLS
1923 January 29 Gruger to Florence
Gruger. (In Algiers.)
Is worried about family; cannot un-
derstand why they did not receive
money and why he cannot reach them.
Says his work "is tedious and a bore;
but that is nothing" 2 pp. TLS
1923
February 1 C. Kaiser (Ralph H.
Jones Advertising Co.).
Enclosed is check for the Dalton industrial drawing which far exceeded
expectations. Copy is now being writ-
ten for other ads; will call for more
interesting illustrations than "birdseye." Would FRG be interested in doing entire series? 1 p. TLS
1923 February 3 Arthur McKeogh
(Saturday Evening Post) Has seen FRG's two sets this morning
and is "waving the old headpiece on
high and leading a vigorous cheer on
the part of the Art Department ending
with three long GRUGERS." Would
like one of the originals, inscribed by
FRG. 1 p. TLS
February 3 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Sorry that Christmas letter was lost, as
1923
it had things in it he will never write
again. (Letter of 12/29/22; eventually
it was returned to FRG.) Will soon
have all the money he needs; hopes to
have all drawings done which publi19
"Really Sargent", said the Commissar, "you do collect the most extraordinary specimens.
What on earth is that old creature there?"
THE ENGLISH TUTOR by PERCIVAL GIBBON
The Saturday Evening Pest
April 14th, 1923, Page 7
cations will need to tide them over.
Met Huchinson, a writer who spent
years in China, and asked him about
Chinese
story FRG is illustrating.
Story is not very exact, so FRG will
not worry about being too accurate.
Has been offered $25,000 worth of
work. 6 pp. TLS and ALS
February 6 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Bee Wittmack cleaned up his business
letters for him; Eddie Wittmack acts as
his "adjutant;" takes care of little
chores that annoy FRG. Lists drawings
1923
that he has to complete before he can
leave; includes magazine and commission for each set of illustrations. 6 pp.
TLS
1923
20
February 10
Gruger.
Gruger to Florence
Makes plans to join family. Is picking
up on his drawings, but unable to de-
velop speed in winter. First installment of Red Book serial is done. 4 pp.
TLS
1923 February 14 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Eddie Wittmack had lunch with him in
studio; Eddie insisted on cleaning up.
ERG is making drawings for Hearst's
international; thought they might give
him difficulty but they are going well.
Working on McCall's drawings also;
had six drawing boards going and only
one pair of hands. Says he thinks easy
drawings are ahead; plans schedule.
Dinner with Eddie. Says "Beth" came
in with awful sketches; has talent but
lacks balance. Is going to bawl her
out next time. 9pp. TLS
imprint: Oregon
February 16 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Met Evvie (Everett) Shinn, who was
1923
in a hurry to go to a party and also
close to a divorce. Shinn told FRG he
had "the only wife he ever heard of
who was good for life and didn't quit
half." Thought John R. Neill's marriage was going to break, too; FRG
disagreed. FRG has to draw portrait
of Nancy Hanks; he is the only artist
who will not offend the Lincoln family.
4 pp. TLS
February 19 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Eddie Wittmack's uncle (Arthur Ba!-
1923
thasar) lost his house in a fire. FRG
talks about progress of his work; is
bothered by fatigue from his grippe.
4 pp. TLS
1923 February 19
R. Crosby.
Says what a pleasure it was to meet
FRG, although he did so with consider-
able diffidence. Wanted to try for one
of FRG's drawings. Includes rough
sketch of himself. 3 pp. ALS
February 23 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
1923
Had grippe; slowed down his work.
Says art editors were muzzled by
George Washington's splendid services
(holiday). Other comments about pro-
gress of work and his desire to travel
in summer. 7 pp. TLS.
1923 February 27 Gruger to Florence
March 2 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Says manuscripts have poured into his
1923
studio; had $7000 worth of orders in
one week. Has just added 75% to all
his prices and got away with it, so feels
financially sound. 4 pp. TLS
1923 March 8 Karl E. Harriman (Red
Book and Blue Book Magazines).
Would like to trade enclosed three-part
story for the story by Mrs. Bartley.
Explains layout suggestions. FRG is
generous to promise first installment
pictures by 20th of month. Please send
note reassuring Harriman that illustrations will be ready by date set. 1 p.
TLS
March 8 Henry A. Niecle (Red
Book and Blue Book Magazines).
FRG's drawings for second installment
1923
of Bartley serial have been received.
Mr. Harriman faithfully reported splitupright episode; picture will be split
in order to give it the space to which
its importance entitles it. He thinks
highly of FRG's drawing and would
never deliberately mutilate his work.
1 p. TLS
March 9
Gruger
1923
Gruger to Florence
Eddie Wittmack is having his tnsils
out. FRG talks generally about how
his work is going and his financial
Helped Sally Farnham with sketch she
was having trouble with. Says plasticene Sally gave him was full of birdseed and doghair. Discusses work; says
situation. Mentions Franklin Booth. Is
homesick and frustrated at lost letters
and undependable communication with
family. ópp. TLS
1923 March 29 C. E. Kaiser (Ralph
H. Jones Advertising Agency) Enclosed is check for drawing of girl
at switchboard. Other drawings in Dalton series may have more interesting
subjects than the last. Enclosed is layout for another account, which he believes FRG will enjoy. Describes what
he has made $13,600 since he was
is desiredsoft focus and interesting
home; did it for his family. 7 pp. TLS
vignette. 1 p. TLS
Gruger.
Has just finished story for Hearst's that
he did not like; had no sympathy for
the way they wanted it done. Ended
two weeks of very high pressure.
Fail 1981
21
April 4 Saturday Evening Post.
FRG mentioned tropical material and
now they are sending him some. Are
hoping to get photos from Cora Harris
for her serial; FRG will probably want
to wait until they come. 1 p. TLS
1923 April 7 Jack (Saturday
Evening Post).
Sorry not to see FRG. Fourth install.
ment of Cora Harris serial is coming;
she is looking up old photos but does
not promise to come up with many.
1 p. TLS
1923
1923
April 13
Bessie Riddell
(Saturday Evening Post).
Is sending photograph of Mrs. Harris
taken when she was two; was all the
material she could find. May send
more later. She values photograph
highly; would FRG be careful with it.
1 p. TLS
1923
April 13
Bessie Riddell
(Saturday Evening Post).
Are sending FRG photographs of Cora
Harris, which they hope will be of use.
Are anxiously awaiting drawings for
"Cat's Paw." 1 p. TLS
1923 May 2 Henry B. Quinan
(Woman's Home Companion).
Distressed to hear of FRG's illness. Has
persuaded W. B. King to do drawings
for part one of story. Have abandoned
idea of color; seems heartless to grab
whole serial away from FRG after he
has studied it, but presses will not wait.
They are using his beautiful drawing
but cannot do it in full color; are
sending $300. Quinan wants to know
when FRG is well; his secretary should
send in the rest oi the manuscript. 1 p.
TLS
1923 May 12
Maclean's Magazine.
Has received three original Hatherell
illustratians; reproductions show up
better than originals. Will FRG select
from attached proofs which original he
would like to have? Franklin Booth has
22
been prevailed upon to do three decorations; would FRG advise if it would
be good to look at rough pencil
sketches first to see if anything might
conflict with magazine's policies? Is
this usual to do with an artist of Booth's
standing? Is sending FRG a story to
illustrate by I. A. R. Wylie. It will not
be needed until July 20. 1 p. TLS
1923
May 23
Bessie Riddell
(Saturday Evening Post).
Are sending FRG the fifth installment
of Cora Harris' "My Own Life." They
are getting anxious about illustrations
for "Cat's Paw" and the Harris serial;
will FRG let them know how he is progressing. Mr. McKeogh is still away
from the office and progressing nicely.
1 p. TLS
1923 May 31 Phyllis Duganne to
Mr. Sell, Harper's Bazaar.
Is delighted with FRG's illustrations
for her story, "It Can't Be Done." Says
he made characters look exactly as she
thought they did; his sketch of Owen
Musgrave has "fired" her with ambition to do a new story about him. 1 p.
TLS
1923
June 4 George Lorimer
(Saturday Evening Post).
Thanks FRG for kind telegram. He's
heard that the first twenty.five years,
like the first $1000, are the hardest. 1 p.
TLS
1923 June 7 Karl Harriman (Red
Book and Blue Book Magazines).
A check for $500 is on its way, for third
installment of serial. For second installment, only one picture was sent;
would $350 be proper? Hold back on
serial for a time and please accept enclosed story. Big picture could show
young man going forward in revival
scene. Can FRG have illustrations
ready in a month? 1 p. TLS
1923 June 7 Bessie Riddell
(Saturday Evening Post).
Imprint: Oregon
Drawings for first installment of "Cats
Paw" were splendid. They will send
galleys for last installment of Cora
Harris serial in a few days. 1 p. TLS
June 12 W. Arthur Cole
(Barton, Durstine& Osborn, Inc.)
Are sending FRG proof of illustration
which he made for Alexander Hamilton Institute titled "Three Great Fears
1923
that Haunt the Fireside." Through
some accident, original of this piece
was lost. They wish to continue its use;
can FRG create an exact redrawing of
the original illustration for them? 1 p.
TLS
1923 June 18
William E. Mears
(Harper & Bros.).
Are mailing galley proofs of fourth article (Forman) entitled "The Coun-
try of the Sybarites." They need five
black and white drawings and one full
color sketch by July 15th; articles are
running in magazine and they cannot have a break in the series now. 1 p.
TLS
1923 June 26 Bessie Riddell
(Saturday Evening Post).
Ninth and last installment of the Cora
Harris serial is on its way. Lorimer is
anxious about illustrations and needs
them at weekly intervals. Will FRG
let them know when to expect the first
set. 1 p. TLS
1923 July 14 Florence Gruger to Ted
Gruger
FRG will not have much vacation this
summer Did come up to Bar Harbor,
but had to return to New York to rush
out some installments. Says it is a small
price to pay, as they are planning to
go to Egypt this winter. 4pp. ALS
1923 July 18 William E. Mears
(Harper & Bros.).
They are concerned about receiving
illustrations for "The Country of the
Sybarites." Need color drawings at
once in order to make printing plates.
Receipt for picture attached. 1 p. TLS
Fail 1981
July 19 F. S. Hoppsin
(Duffield & Co.).
Reminder that FRG was to have jacket
1923
design for "Barbry" ready by August
20. They need to publish book by end
of August. 1 p. TLS
1923 July 20 Gruger to Florence
Gruger
Is back in New York (has just left
family in Bar Harbor). McKeogh
visited. Good luck attended his work;
color drawing for Harper's was done
in an hour. Begins Post serial next.
2 pp. TLS
July 21
Gruger
1923
Gruger to Florence
John R. Neill visited. FRG has completed two Post drawings and has a
third halfway done. Did nothing on
Harper's today. 1 p. TLS
1923
July 22 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
First installment of Post story is finished; took all day. Will begin Harper's next day; expects that will take
two days to do. Says he works "like
a streak" when it is hot; is "in good
trim in heat." John R. Neill says the
same things. 1 p. TLS
1923
July 23 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Dinner with Arthur W. and Grace
Brown the night before. Finished noth-
ing today, but got a lot started. Bee
Wittmack is working for him in the
morning. 2 pp. TLS
July 25 Arthur McKeogh
(Saturday Evening Posñ.
1923
Thinks all of the Harris pictures are
quite effective, no matter how exacting
FRG may be. ip. TLS
1923 July 25 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Thinks he is about to finish the story
for Harper's; will then have made
$1000 since his return (from Bar Har-
bor). Talked to Mrs. John R. Neill
23
There sat a remarkably pretty woman in mourning.
DIAMOND CUT DIAMOND by J. S. FLETCHER
Cosmopolitan Magazine, February 1925, Page 71
about forwarding Gruger mail. (Neills
were living in Gruger apartment in
New York.) 2 pp. TLS
1923 July 27 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Will come as soon as he can get ahead
by two Post installments. Has not finished Harper's drawings; had set-back
and color drawing had to be made over.
Other drawing was not acceptable be-
installment of the Post serial have
made a hit, and FRG thinks the second
lot are even better. Mentions what he
hopes to accomplish in weeks ahead.
2 pp. TLS
1923 July 31 E. Bok
(Saturday Evening Post.
cause it was purely landscape. 2 pp.
Offers small, personal check to FRG in
TLS
response to FRG's promise to turn in
1923
July 28
Edgar Wittmack.
Among other requests, Edgar would
like FRG to scour his studio for any
checks Wittmack may have missed, as
he is going broke. 2 pp. ALS
1923 July 28 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Has finished Harper's drawings; they
held him back although they should
24
have given him no trouble. Is glad he
made the second color drawing; it is
best of the lot. Illustrations for the first
three sets of illustrations in two weeks.
Says artists are proverbially underpaid. 1 p. ALS
July 31 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Is looking for studio apartments; rent
is too high. is working on third installment of Post serial; must be ahead by
two installments before he can make
1923
Imprint: Oregon
a break and come up. Has made $1500
since he came back; their trip to Egypt
is "as sure as mortal things can be."
2 pp. TLS
August 1
Gruger.
1923
Gruger to Florence
in relation to predecessors; they are
Mears of Harper's asked if he would
sell watercolor in August issue. FRG
said yes, for $150. 2 pp. TLS.
August 3 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
1923
Is working on fourth installment of
Post serial; is not ready to come up
yet; cannot risk having next installments late. Too hot and wet to work
tonight. 2 pp. TLS
1923 August 4 Florence Gruger.
Tries to talk FRG into coming up to
Bar Harbor and using Eddie Wittmack's studio; family will not bother
him. 4 pp. ALS
August 5 Florence Gruger to
Ted Gruger.
1923
Comments on Eddie Wittmack who
helped "rescue" herself, Elizabeth and
Dorothy, who were stranded on a head-
land. He "is doing some remarkable
work here" (is an artist) and is "so
amusing and entertaining." 6 pp. ALS
1923 August 5 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Explains in detail why he cannot come
up and stay with family in Bar Harbor. Cannot afford to be late in turn.
ing in illustrations. Wants family
where they can be comfortable. 2 pp.
TLS
1923 August 6
Edgar Wittmack.
Begins letter by stating he is hungry;
wants to know what FRG can do about
it. Tried to draw landscape with figure
in it; figure was too large for the picture; Wittmack now plans to become
a bricklayer. Invites FRG to come up
and use his studio. 2pp. ALS
1923
August 7
Florence Gruger.
Still wants FRG to come as soon as
Fall 1981
he can. Has met a Mr. Krebe who admires FRG's work. 8 pp. ALS
1923 August 7 Arthur McKeogh
(Saturday Evening Post).
FRG's pictures are difficult to appraise
all too good. Wonders if Mrs. Riddell
could have a little "vignette" she particularly enjoyed. 1 p. TLS
1923 August 8 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
John R. Neil! has offered FRG his
brother's house on Long Island or their
apartment back, but Bee Wittmack is
still looking for a new apartment for
them. FRG has had to refuse stories
from Good Housekeeping, Red Book,
Hearst's and Harper's. McKeogh is
coming to see him about another serial,
which FRG will refuse. 2 pp. TLS
1923 August 10 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Advises daughter Elizabeth (also an
artist) to not be disturbed because she
cannot do certain pictures. When she
has a picture to make, "the things she
finds impossible to put down now will
pop out and be as easy as pie." 2 pp.
TLS
1923 August 13
Gruger.
Gruger to Florence
Complains about heat. Works from
9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., a long day for
his kind of work, is lonely. 2 pp. TLS
1923 August 14 Arthur McKeogh
(Saturday Evening Post).
"That was just a trick of yours, saying
that you did not think so well of the
last set. Every one of them takes the
hurdle beautifully." 1 p. TLS
1923 August 16 William E. Mears
(Harper & Bros.).
Is sending manuscript "The Journey"
to FRG; wants one full page picture
in full color and four vignettes in black
and white. Gives deadline and suggests subjects. 1 p. TLS
25
1923 August 22 Florence Gruger.
Apologizes for bothering FRG with her
worries; separation is too long; next
time, family wants him closer if he is
not going to be able to get away for
the summer 2 pp. ALS
August 22 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Letter is upset in tone. FRG feels that
everyone is displeased with him; Flor-
1923
ence is giving him a hard time about
coming to Bar Harbor, his publishers
have been on his back, he has not been
able to do what he wanted to do, he is
worried about the future, and Bee
Wittmack left to go on vacation. 2 pp.
TLS
1923 August 27
Arthur McKeogh
(Saturday Evening Post).
Last set of drawings greeted him; likes
them as usual and "The Boss" thought
they were better than the preceding
set. 1 p. TLS
August 28 Gerald Page-Wood
(Erwin, Wasey & Co.).
Asks FRG to do ad for "Humidor sampler" for American Tobacco Co. Gives
idea for illustration, plus specifications
it must meet for magazine use. 2 pp. TL
1923 August 29 Arthur McKeogh
(Saturday Evening Post).
C. E. Scoggins, author of "Cat's Paw,"
is looking for a couple of Gruger originals for his story. He produced a card
from Spicer-Simson, which made Mc1923
Keogh think he might be able to get
what he wanted. 1 p. TLS
September Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Drawing has been slow because of bad
1923
weather. It is so damp that he has to
keep drawing by the fire most of the
time. Went to show with Eddie Wittmack and John R. Neill. 2 pp. TLS
September 12 Arthur McKeogh
(Sat urday Evening Post).
Received drawings and they are fine.
1 p. TLS
1923
26
September 14 Henry James
Forman.
FRG's last set of drawings in Harper's
1923
was superb. Forman is upset because
publishers of "The Enchanted Garden"
were not doing anything for the book
yet. Will dedicate new book to FRG if
he finds a publisher. 2 pp. ALS
1923 September 19 Henry James
Forman.
Is still thinking about Egypt. Found a
publisher who is willing to take the
risk of publishing the Harper's (Italian tour) material; the book will be
lovely, but so expensive to produce
that no one will make anything on it.
1 p. ALS
September 19
Arthur McKeogh
(Saturday Evening Post).
Very enthusiastic about FRG's latest
drawings; thinks planetary picture "a
smashing finish for perhaps the best
series of drawings" FRG has made on
1923
the job. Would like one of the originals.
1 p. TLS
1923 September 19 Henry B. Quinan
(Woman's Home Companion).
Is sending story, "The Splendid Life,"
which he is sure FRG will enjoy illus-
trating. Apologizes for drawings for
serial which were produced in two
colors rather than in full color. Says
proofs were nice, anyway. 1 p. TLS
1923 September 21 Hearst's
International Magazine.
Enclosed is check for $650 for three
illustrations for "During Dinner." 1 p.
TL
1923 September 22
J. Vernon
McKenzie (Maclean's Magazine).
Wants to know if FRG can provide a
drawing for "atmosphere yarn" by Les-
lie Gordon Barnard. FRG once said
that a month's notice was just as good
as six months notice because he "lets
things drift till the end anyway." 1 p.
TLS
Imprint: Oregon
I have known great men who heard the same voice calling them, and have seen them fold
away every worldly ambition to answer it.
MY BOOK AND HEART by CORA HARRIS
The Saturday Evening Post
September 8th, 1923, Page 29
1923
September 22 Henry B. Quinan
(Woman's Home Companion).
Appreciated FRG's promise to make
Gibbons illustrations his best and on
time; they will break their necks to
give best presentation of which their
equipment is capable. 1 p. TLS
October 5 Philip W. Lennen
(Erwin, Wasey & Co.).
1923
Received drawing for Humidor sam-
pler; they are all pleased with it; a
"most artistic piece of work." Enclosed
is proof; they think they will get even
better results in Post. 1 p. TLS
1923 October 5 Ralph H. Jones
Advertising Agency.
Enclose two orders for ERG to fill for
American Laundry Co. Lines are "Not
for her own but for her family's sake"
and "Another Seventh Day of Rest."
1 p. TLS
Fall 1981
October 10
Arthur McKeogh
(Saturday Evening Post).
Says serials are elusive at present; is
1923
sending ERG a "first-class story by
Thomas Beer containing large chunks
of character." Is counting on delivery
on due date. 1 p. TLS
1923 October 10 C. E. Scoggins.
Mentions that he spent time with Theodore Spicer.Simson last summer and
they talked about ERG's work. Scoggins liked FRG's pictures for his story,
"Cat's Paw," thanks ERG for permission to have original illustration. 1 p.
TLS
George Lorimer
(Saturday Evening Post).
Arthur McKeogh has resigned as art
editor at the Post. Mr. Costain will be
calling on ERG next week. 1 p. TLS
1923
October 17
27
1923
October 26 J. Vernon McKenzie
(Maclean's Magazine).
Is looking forward to receiving draw.
ing for "Lighted Windows." Wants to
know if Franklin Booth is planning to
do decorative headings or not; otherwise will arrange to have local artist
do them. 1 p. TLS
October 30 T. B. Costain
1923
(Saturday Evening Post).
Mrs. Harris was delighted by FRG's
illustrations for her story, "My Book
and Heart;" she would like an original illustration. Costain invited FRG
over to lunch. 1 p. TLS
November 21 Roger L. Scaife
(Houghton Muffin Co.).
Planning to publish Cora Harris' autobiography (which was running in
Post) ; would like to use some of FRG's
1923
illustrations for the magazine serial
in the book version. 1 p. TLS
November 22 Philip W. Lennen
(Erwin, Wasey & Co.).
1923
Is sending FRG one of the Humidor
samplers for his pipe. Is waiting for
FRG's advice about new drawing;
hopes FRG will be in position "to turn
it out." 1 p. TLS
1923 November 26 Philip W. Lennen
(Erwin, Wasey & Co.).
Suggests that FRG make drawing of
man smoking pipe by fire and reading
Dickens' Pickwick Papers (for Humidor ad). They believe this ad will be
very effective and they will be disappointed if there is no way of illustrating it. 1 p. TLS
1923 November 26 Philip W. Lennen
(Erwin, Wasey & Co.).
Says he is willing for FRG to change
his idea; arrange composition so it will
work to best advantage. Telegram.
1923 November 27 Roger L. Scaife
(Houghton Muffin Co.)
Have selected a drawing for the dust
-
jacket of the Cora Harris autobiog28
raphy; give FRG information on size
and proportions to use for final drawing. 1 p. TLS
November 29 Harold Copping.
1923
Would like Gruger to recommend an
American artist's agent for him as he
is finding it difficult to locale a good
one. Suggests using old style "cake"
color for painting as opposed to the
new "moist" colors. 3 pp. ALS
T. B. Costain
(Saturday Evening Post).
Planning to send FRG to the Balkans
for material on a story by McCutcheon; have to get more of the story from
McCutcheon first. They are trying to
rush the Atkey serial, so that complete
proofs will be ready for FRG before
he sails. 1 p. TLS
1924 March 11 Gruger to Ted
Gruger.
1923
December 6
FRG has finished his drawings in
Paris; has produced $4000, which
should keep them until they return to
New York. 2 pp. ALS
1924 May 29 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Had breakfast with George Gibbs, "author, artist and fine chap." Gives progress of his work. 2 pp. ALS
1924 June 27 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Enumerates what he has done and what
he has yet to do for work. Lists upcoming jobs for magazines including
Hearst's, Cosmopolitan, and Red Book.
1 p. ALS
1924 October 8 Gruger to Ted
Gruger.
Mentions that John R. Neill has concocted plans for a house "which when
built he'll never live in." 4 pp. ALS
December 12 Gruger to Ted
Gruger.
Henry James Forman went to Grugers'
London tailor and gave FRG as a referImprint:Oregon
1924
"Don't you know the politician has got a right to eat your fruit without payin9 for it? He certainly has."
WHAT'S POLITICS AMONG FRIENDS by THOMAS McMORROW
The Saturday Evening Post, July 12, 1924, Page 8
ence. The attendant replied, "Yes, Mr.
Gruger gets all his clothes here and so
FRG. Students at Brooklyn Institute
Describes his new studio apartment.
want FRG to talk to them; probably he
will as soon as he gets used to his new
teeth. Arthur W. Brown is having scalp
trouble; a male model used one of his
brushes. 7 pp. ALS
1925 March 26 Gruger to Ted
Gruger.
Ted is better businessman than FRG;
Jo (Joseph) Leyendecker trimmed
it will soon be his job to do family
does his father," much to Forman's
amusement. FRG thought Forman flat-
tered himself that this meant that he
looked Ted's age. 2 pp. ALS
1924 December 26 Gruger to Ted
Gruger.
their Christmas tree. 2 pp. ALS
1925 February 2 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Talks about Eddie Wittmack, who is
involved with Elizabeth Gruger. Says
Henry Raleigh's last commission was
for twenty-five drawings at $2000 each.
FRG is lucky to get $750 per drawing.
Arthur W. Brown says Raleigh is get-
ting a bit "top hat" and feeling important. Dudley Gloyne Summers
posed for apostle's hands in picture for
Pall 1981
advising. McKeogh of Cosmopolitan
was very sick for nine weeks. 4pp. ALS
May 31 Elizabeth Gruger to
FRG and Florence Gruger.
1925
Talks about her art school in Paris
(Julian's) ; complains about the "critic" and says some of the students have
"missed their vocation." 4 pp. ALS
1925 June 18 Elizabeth Gruger to
FRG and Florence.
Is sorry to hear FRG's work is not
going well; thinks it will be better when
29
the heat wave is past. Thinks he needs
rest and change; "keeps too everlastingly at it." 4 pp. TLS
1925 June 23 Elizabeth Gruger to
FRG and Florence.
Talks about visiting art exhibition (international) at the Salon; does not
know how some works made it in and
feels the French are very generous in
their awards. 4 pp. TLS
August Ted Gruger.
Says he hears that Saturday Evening
Post is going to give FRG and some
other artists recognition for making
the Post what it is; Ted believes his
father's work for the magazine "has
practically dictated its policy of illustration during the twentieth century
1925
needs to take a course first. 2 pp. ALS
October 1 Gruger to Ted
Gruger.
1925
FRG is fed up with the Wittmacks;
they are "too expensive." Is out $1500
and told by them that he can afford it
and will be repaid by them some time.
is worried about Ed's intentions in
regard to Elizabeth Gruger. Dorothy
Gruger made a good impression on
George Lorimer, editor of the Post. 4
pp. ALS
1925 October 24
Elizabeth Gruger
to FRG and Florence Gruger.
Adored FRG's illustrations for the Don
Jo Leyendecker were judges of competition of pictures done with new Faber
Byrne story in the Post. Norman and
Ed (Wittmack) ) sing "his praises:"
think he is one of the greatest artists
and critics. 10 pp. ALS
1926 June 24 Elizabeth Gruger
to FRG and Florence Gruger.
Leon (Elizabeth's teacher and critic)
has advised that she use large brushes
pencils; asks if they were good. Asks
if Rockwell is still ill; seems to have
for painting; so "nowwith a handful of brooms, I paint huge and im-
been for some time. 5 pp. TLS
August 14 Gruger to Ted
Gruger.
Comments on Eddie Wittmack's character; says Wittmack is planning to go
pressive paintings." is supposed to use
brush twice as large as the shape she is
..."3pp.TLS
1925
August 2 Elizabeth Gruger to
FRG and Florence.
Hears that FRG, Franklin Booth and
1925
abroad as 'he must give Europe a
treat." Dorothy Gruger is considering
a job on the Post staff. Henry J. Forman visited Hollywood; says it is devoid of human intellect. ôpp. ALS
1925 September 1 Gruger to Ted
Gruger.
He and J. L. L. (Leyendecker) "cried
together in our coffee" about how bad
things are. FRG was "fed up on the
U. S. for the time being." Describes
Tarkington's "Seventeen" as performed at the Comedy Club. 4 pp. ALS
September 24 Gruger to Ted
Gruger.
Dorothy Gruger is at work at the Post;
1925
30
George Lorimer (editor) thinks she
trying to paint. Comments on Henry
Raleigh that he has not been quite sane
for four years. 7 pp. ALS
1926 August 8 Ted Gruger to FRG
and Florence Gruger.
is worried about FRG; heard that he
had eye trouble and was "laid up."
8 pp. TLS
September 23
Gruger.
1926
Gruger to Ted
Comments on Lord Dunsany's latest
work, "The Charwoman's Shadow;"
describes it as "unreal, fanciful, delightful." Says some of daughter Elizabeth's work shows promise as painter,
but not as illustrator. She does not get
people from the psychological viewpoint, which is what is necessary. 7 pp.
ALS
Imprint: Oregon
1926
December 3
Gruger.
Gruger to Ted
The Post just gave FRG a $50 per
drawing raise, so he is busy "making
hay." 6 pp. ALS.
1926 December 12 Ted Gruger to
FRG and Florence Gruger.
Says to his father, "Congratulations
on your work and the great success it
demands and obtains from the public
and the appreciation of the publishers." 7 pp. ALS
1926 December 26 Gruger to Ted
Gruger.
FRG is not feeling well; his cold is
hanging on and his work "has gone to
the devil." 4 pp. ALS
1927 February 18 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Is depressed; wants family together
again. He wishes he "didn't ever have
to make another drawing." Got a
George Moore story to illustrate from
the Cosmopolitan; and a good story
from Mrs. Wylie at the Post. Comments
on progress of work. 12 pp. ALS
1927 February 20 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Norman Rockwell's cover for the Post
is late; Dorothy Gruger is going to
take it down to Philadelphia with her.
2 pp. ALS
1927 February 21 Ray Long
(International Magazine Co.).
The drawing is one of the most beautiful his or any other magazine has pub-
lished. (Roimondi story?) 1 p. TLS
February 25 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Jo Leyendecker did not get his cover
done for the Post, so Mrs. Riddell got
after "poor Rockwell" to hurry up and
finish his. Dorothy Gruger was to take
it in, but she got cramps, so FRG ended
up doing it. Arthur W. Brown went to
California. 16 pp. ALS
1927
Fall 1981
1927
March 3
Gruger.
Gruger to Florence
This week has yielded about $1000.
Dorothy Gruger says they are begining to experiment with four-color inside pages at the Post; FRG will have
to experiment also; wants his work to
"be good or not at all." 16 pp. ALS
March 4 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Finished another drawing for the Post;
thinks it is unusually good because of
its rather complicated light effect. Ex-
1927
plained how it was done to a young
illustrator who visited him. Will not
be able to take vacation for a time; is
trying to make $1200 a week; probably will not be able to keep it up and
will make more like $900 a week. 16
pp. ALS
1927 March 10
Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Talks about Jo Leyendecker's Post
cover; says Leyendecker should have
gone on vacation; FRG was surprised
at picture, although he "lied like a
gentleman" and said picture was "a
peach." FRG is planning his color
work. Arthur W. Brown went "white
at the temples" when he heard he would
have to do his illustrations in color.
Wants to buy ship model from John
R. Neill, but Neill will not sell. 15 pp.
ALS
1927 March 19
Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Reports on progress of his drawings.
One figure "evaded" him; had to wait
until it came right. 20 pp. ALS (waterdamaged)
March 24
Gruger.
1927
Gruger to Florence
Had bad headache; got little sleep;
was behind on Post drawings and dis-
turbed by that"days late and hellto-pay." Finally finished his drawings
and George Wilson is taking them to
31
"1 always thought your hatred for him went back to that Miss Roderick
who was killed at Todd Hundred when I was a child."
BALISAND by JOSEPH HERGESHEIMER
The Saturday Evening Post, September 16, 1924, Page 24
Philadelphia. 10 pp. ALS
1927 April 1 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Suffering from some illness. is going to
try to get another Post story done over
weekend. Did two drawings for part of
series by Hergesheimer titled "Al.
bany," "Natchez," and "Washington."
FRG likes them better than any other
stories he has done so far. Started auother picture which looks surprisingly
good, since it is mainly horses and FRG
is "not so good at horses." Mentions
that he has "nervous fits" . . . "when
everything that is is wrongno matter
what;" wants to be alone at such times.
12 pp. ALS
1927 April 1 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Bessie Riddell had Dorothy (Gruger)
phone FRG to tell him how much the
32
Post staff liked his latest illustrations.
12 pp. ALS
1927
April 9 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
John R. Neill spent night at FRG's
apartment; became recipient of FRG's
outrageby awakening him at 9:00 a.m.
the next morning; opened curtains and
began whistling. Remarks about draw.
ing horses that "horses and I have to
pull very hard to get together in a
drawing." 16 pp. ALS
April 9 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Has a story to do; like "The Apostles"
it will only be good by accident since
it has to be done in a hurry. Story by
Don Byrne has arrived and promises
1927
to be good. Says Jo Leyendecker is
talking about the wisdom of a little
rest "as though he invented it." Three
lmprint:Oregon
beautiful lady models came to give
FRG their names; he took names and
addresses and then bade them goodbye
forever. 14 pp. ALS
April 12 Roy M. Mason.
1927
Is a fan of FRG's; would like to get a
Gruger original to go with his collection of "the best old boys." 1 p. ALS
April 18 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
1927
Talks about happiness in relation.
ships; no such thing as a permanent
thrill; happy the person who can find
a good friend. Arthur W. Brown is
making money on water works stock.
FRG finished second George Moore
drawing; Cosmopolitan is pleased with
it. 12 pp. ALS
1927 April 18 Dudley Gloyne
Summers.
Is enclosing check for 82.50 to pay debt
from pleasant evening. 1 p. ALS
1927 April 19 Bessie Riddell
(Saturday Evening Post).
Says they are making out very well in
spite of FRG's stated shortcomings. Mr.
Lorimer is editing the Don Byrne serial
and there will be some delay on each
installment. "Washington," the third
part of the Hergesheimer series, is
scheduled and they would like the pictures by Monday. 1 p. TLS
1927 April 22 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Story is giving him "quite a wrestle;"
is a companion piece to the one for
which he did the apostles. Talks about
financial affairs; has purchased some
bonds. 18 pp. ALS
1927 April 29 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Is sending back a manuscript to Mr.
Gibson, an editor; "to reject a manuscript is amusing especially when one
of the horrid breed of editors is the
victim." No one ever comes in to see
him unless they want something.
Pall 1981
Hergesheimer stories are remarkably
good. 6 pp. ALS
1927 April 30 Gruger to Ted Gruger.
Talks about Hergesheimer drawings
for Post; is going to make fine photostats of them for Ted. 2 pp. ALS
1927 May 4 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Very tired Monday; had to take time
off to sleep. Notified that he won an
award for some drawing; has another
medal but refused to go to dinner and
make a speech. 4pp. ALS
Edie F. Molyneux
(Art Directors Club).
Informs FRG that his drawing for the
Gruen Watch Makers Guild, exhibited
by the J. Walter Thompson Co., was
awarded medal in black and white illustration section for the 6th Annual
Exhibition of Advertising Art. ip. TLS
1927 May 6 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Finished a drawing for Cosmopolitan;
Henry Quinan phoned after receiving
it to tell him how grand and beautiful
it is; John R. Neill called it a masterpiece. McKeogh (Arthur) is now "boss
1927
May 5
of the Red Book." Visited with Jo
Leyendecker. 6 pp. ALS
1927 May 6 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Had attack of indigestion while work-
ing on drawings; thinks it was ptomaine. Was able to keep working most
of the time. 8 pp. AL
1927 May 10 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Has finished a drawing which took
longer than he had hoped; is afraid it
will not reproduce as well as he could
wish. John R. Neill is getting him involved in some old mine stock. 8 pp.
ALS
1927 May 13 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Drawings that went to the Post cost
33
ten days work, but were good drawings. Carl saw one and was impressed;
actually gave a good reading of the
picture and of FRG's intentions. Bessie
Riddell and "The Boss" were also
thrilled; the only thing left for him to
look forward to is a gallery in the
Louvre in his lifetime. Is looking for-
ward to some new stories; will provide chance for mystic vision. 4 pp.
ALS
1927 May 14 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Is expecting to get $50,000 in short
while through stock and bond involvements. Is over his period with "nerves"
now. 8pp. ALS
1927 May 20 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Talks about Henry J. Forman as "so
full of notions and enterprises to escape from himself." 6 pp. ALS
June 7 Frank C. Williams
(Austin F. Bement, Inc.).
Wants to know if FRG would be interested in working with them on Packard
1927
color (advertising) campaign. Gives
tertained by his slow, steady build-
details. 1 p. TLS
June 16 Henry B. Quinan
(Woman's Home Companion) Apologizes that first copy of story has
been lost. Author has expressed particular desire that FRG do illustrations.
1 p. TLS
1927 June 20 Frank C. Williams
(Austin F. Bement, Inc.).
Wants to know if FRG is interested in
up. Talks about his headaches and how
nice it is to go to bed free of pain. 8pp.
doing illustrations for Packard campaign, as FRG has not responded to
During past six weeks has suffered
from sudden attacks of illness; thinks
it may be due to butter obtained from
delicatessen. John R. Neill has approached him for $800; FRG was en-
ALS
1927 May 27 Bessie Riddell
(Saturday Evening Post).
Apologizes for appearing to put blame
on FRG; asked Mr. Lorimer for extra
week so they could get caught up on
schedule. Says silver-print business is
hard on art editor. 1 p. TLS
1927 May 31 Bessie Riddell
(Saturday Evening Post).
Tells FRG how lovely his pictures are;
Mr. Lorimer thought the hoodoo scene
was a "wonder." New Orleans story
will be off the list and FRG can start
on serial next. 1 p. TLS
1927 May 31 R. R. Rountree
(Advertising & Selling
Magazine).
Are considering reproducing FRG's
award winning illustration (Gruen
34
Watchmakers Guild ad which won Art
Directors Club medal) in the May issue of their magazine. Will send FRG
complimentary copies if he likes. 1 p.
TLS
1927 June 3 Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
1927
previous letter. 1 p. TLS
July 15 Gruger to Ted Gruger.
Hot, moist weather. FRG is at his best
at such times. 4 pp. ALS
1927 August 5 Gruger to Ted Gruger.
Says drawing may sound monotonous,
1927
but it is not. "Each story is a sort of
adventure into somewhere else." Describes stories and settings he is presently illustrating. Says it is fun. 4 pp.
ALS
1927 August 11
Clarence Budington
Kelland.
Thanks FRG for warm comments on
his work. He has a Gruger hanging
in his house, his only picture. Arthur
W. Brown has promised a meeting between them. 1 p. TLS
1927 October 29 Gruger to Ted
Gruger.
Imprint:Oregon
FRG grew tired of his work; tossed
his "implements of labor" on his table
and he and Mrs. Gruger set off for Ber.
muda. ôpp. ALS
1927 November 11 Gruger to Ted
Gruger.
Talks about Arthur William Brown's
successful stock investments. 6pp. ALS
1927 November 28 Gruger to Ted
Gruger.
Dinner at Arthur W. Brown's; Rube
Goldberg dropped in. "Brownie" said
Goldberg's pictures were no good and
he should see FRG's. George Lorimer
has been elected president of the Cur-
tis Co.; the Post is reorganizing and
replacing women with men. Dorothy
Gruger refused to resign; said Lori.
mer would have to see her himself.
Netted her $100 and the respect of her
contemporaries. 6 pp. ALS
1928 January 1 Ted Gruger to
FRG and Florence Gruger.
Met an artist named Friesike who admires FRG's work; said he is the best
in his line of work. A sculptor named
Young also joined in the praise at the
Paris party. 23pp. ALS
1928 January 26 Florence Gruger to
Mrs. Weygandt.
Detailed account of events in the Gru.
ger family during the years 1921 to
1928. 11 pp. ALS
1928 February 15 Bessie Riddell
(Saturday Evening Post).
Illustrations for the Bigger story have
"so far exceeded our expectations that
I don't know what words to use in
thanking you." 1 p. TLS
1928 April 22 Joreina Larter Cox to
Art Editor, Saturday Evening
Post.
Drawing of FRG's in this week's Post
is one of the most beautiful she has
ever seen; "please get him to illustrate
the Bible." 1 p. ALS
Fall 1981
April 23 Bessie Riddell
(Saturday Evening Post).
Pictures for "Behind That Curtain" are
gorgeous. 1 p. TLS
1928 May 2 Henry B. Quinan
(Woman's Home Companion).
1928
Drawings of the second part of "The
Father" are especially beautiful; wants
to know where to send check; wishes
FRG a delightful vacation in Paris. 1 p.
TLS
1928 May 11 Morris Van Buren.
For loan of FRG's original illustrations for "Behind That Curtain" (Earl
Derr Biggers), they will receive copy
of the book. Sorry they cannot do better. 2 pp. ALS
1928 May 12 Elizabeth Gruger
Van Buren.
Dudley G. Summers visited. FRG's illustrations for "Behind That Curtain"
are in the hands of Mr. Baber of the
Bobbs-Merrill Co. Elizabeth has receipts and guarantee of their return in
perfect condition. 3 pp. ALS
June Elizabeth Gruger Van
Buren.
1928
Mentions Lord Dunsany; says he is
cruel and boorish in life, but delicate in
work. Thinks such people are not truly
great. Compares FRG as "art in its
masculinity" to Henry Raleigh as "art
in its feminity;" Raleigh touches the
senses and Gruger the emotions. 18 pp.
ALS
1928 June 6
Elizabeth Gruger Van
Buren to Gruger and Florence
Gruger.
(Henry) Quinan is pleased with FRG's
progress on drawings; gives last line
of fourth installment. 18 pp. ALS
1928 June 20 Henry McCarter,
Pennsylvania Academy of the
Fine Arts.
Tells FRG of his high regard for FRG's
work; counts him as one of his "inti-
mates." Says FRG has "never been
35
influenced" and "never faltered in
holding to the best. . ." 2 pp. ALS
1928 June 23 Elizabeth Gruger Van
Buren.
Received check for $1000. Phoning
Quinan. Studio is in good shape. 2 pp.
ALS
1928 July 25
Buren.
Elizabeth Gruger Van
Mentions time spent with Dudley
Gloyne Summers, his wife, Paul, and
her parents. Also mentions John R.
Neill. 16 pp. ALS
July 31 Elizabeth Gruger Van
Buren.
1928
Includes some of her sketches and a
sarcastic jingle about illustrators which
she thought FRG would enjoy. 11 pp.
TLS
1928 August 28 Elizabeth Gruger
Van Buren.
Dudley Gloyne Summers is helping her
with her drawing. Mentions that Henry
Raleigh is mad because some people
asked him if he signed his good pictures with his own name and the bad
ones as Addison Burbank. He asked
her if she thought he copied her father
(FRG) and she said yes. 6 pp. TLS
1928
October 12 Florence Gruger to
Ted Gruger.
Describes John R. Neill's new home
on Long Island. Dudley G. Summers
and his wife went on weekend outing
with Elizabeth and Morris Van Buren.
FRG was asked to write a 4000 word
article on illustrating for the Encyclopedia Britannica. 8 pp. ALS
1928 November 2 Florence Gruger
to Ted Gruger.
Talks of wanting to pursue book-bind-
ing. Met with Mr. de Santy who had
worked with both Cobden-Sanderson
and Douglas Cockerell; had learned
better techniques. Referred de Santy
to Ted; need to locate source of French
design paper. 6 pp. ALS
36
1928
November 14
Gruger.
Gruger to Ted
Is "grinding out drawings with the
regularity of a machine;" Elizabeth
is also; she has as many stories in
prospect as she can do. 4 pp. ALS
November 30 Florence Gruger
to Ted Gruger.
Elizabeth (Gruger Van Buren) is pur-
1928
suing her art; has maid to relieve her
of domestic chores and is buckling
down to work. 6 pp. ALS
1929 January 23 Edith C Lambkin
(Woman's Home Companion).
FRG is to send one of his illustrations
for "The Father" to the Society of Il-
lustrators for an exhibit at Lord &
Taylor's. 1 p. TLS
January 23 Ted Gruger to
FRG and Florence Gruger.
Has been transferred to London; does
1929
not like it. Is thinking of taking art
classes to see if he has talent; FRG has
told him that he may have potential.
12 pp. AL
1929 February 8 Florence Gruger
to Ted Gruger.
Wants to aflirm both FRG's and her
support should Ted decide to pursue
an artistic career; FRG would be hap.
py "because in that line of work you
are creating; your work means something in the world; and by no means
least of the advantages, you are your
own master." Describes advantages of
FRG's work. Thinks FRG's Encyclo-
pedia Britannica article on illustration perfectly expresses goal of illus-
tration. He is "courted and honored
and acknowledged as the foremost illustrator of the day everywhere." 7 pp.
ALS
1929 February 12 Wilhelme Weber
(Art Students League of New
York).
Thanks FRG for allowing some of his
pictures to be exhibited by the organiImprint:Oregon
zation. Exhibition was well-attended.
1 p. TLS
1929 February 14
Gruger.
Gruger to Ted
FRG talks about his drawing; "I like
to make pictures and when I am engaged in that occupation I cannot tole-
rate any advice or suggestion except
technical criticism. I want the picture
to express only what I, myself, think
about it. When it is completed I welcome any amount of criticism and listen to it attentively." 3 pp. TLS
1929 February 27 Florence Gruger
to Ted Gruger.
Advises Ted on picking up on his artistic talents; says he needs "thorough
grounding" in academic drawing. 11
pp. ALS
1929 March 9 Saturday Evening
Post.
Thank FRG for his letter for George
Lorimer's thirtieth anniversary; they
feel it will be a real addition to the
book. 1 p. TLS
1929 March 15 Florence Gruger
to Ted Gruger.
Had the Formans and Booths over to
dinner. Went to exhibition of Edwin
A. Abbey's pictures in New York; he
was FRG's inspiration. 8 pp. ALS
March 22 Florence Gruger
to Ted Gruger.
Is sending typed copy of ERG's Encyclopedia Britannica article; editors
1929
must have liked it because first asked
for 3500 words; when saw what was
submitted they asked for double that
amount. John R. Neill and FRG have
invested in Mexican silver mines and
are getting good returns. 9 pp. ALS
1929 April 15 Ray Long (Hearst's
International and Cosmopoliton).
Says pictures FRG is doing for Fannie
Hurst's story are the "finest thing of
the sort that ever have been published
anywhere." 1 p. TLS
Fail 1981
April 15 Ted Gruger.
Comments on ERG's essay on illustration for the Encyclopedia Britannica;
says it has acquainted him with background aims and motives which he was
1929
not previously familiar with. 16 pp.
ALS
1929 April 17
Florence Gruger
to Ted Gruger.
Knew Ted would like ERG's Encyclopedia Britannica article. Henry James
Forman is enthusiastic; says it is "one
of the finest things of its kind ever
written, both in matter and manner."
They are now urging FRG to write a
book on illustration; "he owes it to
humanity to give the result of his clear
thinking and experience and knowledge to those who are struggling along
blindly or in only partial light." Says
in order to pursue art career, Ted must
concentrate on mastering drawing,
light, composition, etc., which FRG
says when "thoroughly mastered, one
dismisses from one's consciousness."
Parents want Ted to gain "the freedom
and pleasure which artistic life gives
to its followers." ERG had "fainting
seizure" at doctor's office; doctor said
trouble was caused by "his very sensitive nervous reactions to any physical
upset." Has been doing well on work
since; finished three overdue drawings
for the Post. 8 pp. ALS
1929 April 25 George Lorimer
(Saturday Evening Post).
Thanks FRG for letter written in regard to his thirtieth anniversary. Says
no one has contributed more to the
success of the Post than FRG. Apolo-
gizes for riding FRG on the Charlie
Chan material, but they promised author a definite date for book publication. 1 p. TLS
1929 May 2 Ted Gruger to Florence
Gruger.
Is impressed by FRG's article on illus-
tration (Encyclopedia Britannica).
37
Says FRG should write book on the
subject; will let dabblers know exactly
where they stand. 12 pp. ALS
1929 May 4 Gruger to Ted Gruger.
Advises Ted on their mutual interest,
photography. Use different cameras for
color and black and white film; avoid
waste. 2 pp. TLS
1929 May 4 Florence Gruger to Ted
Gruger.
Again discusses FRG's article on illustration for Encyclopedia Britannica.
Says the understanding of artistic
principles and goals is what gives FRG
"his power and rank" and that makes
his work "outclass others." 12 pp. ALS
1929 May 23 Gruger to Ted Gruger.
Advice to Ted on career. Says he
showed great promise with watercolor
as a child. Talks about barrier between
them that makes it hard to talk. 2 pp.
TLS
1929 June 10
Ted Gruger.
Is starting to do some sketching; will
send drawings home twelve at a time
so FRG can criticize and detach him
from bad habits. 2 pp. ALS
1929 June 11 Florence Gruger to
Ted Gruger.
Describes artists' colony of Woodstock
where the Grugers are staying. Dudley G. Summers introduced them to
it; he and his wife met and courted
there. Franklin Booth's brother has
built himself a log cabin studio there;
Florence wonders how he can do the
heavy, rough work of clearing a forest
and building cabins along with delicate pen and brush work. 12 pp. ALS
1929 July 14 "V" (unidentified
correspondent).
Has clipped and hoarded every work
of FRG's that he or she can find. Sits
under mural FRG did at the Philadel.
phia Academy of Fine Arts; it shows
how terrible FRG used to be, but also
shows traces of real talent. 3 pp. ALS
38
July 24 Gruger to Ted Gruger.
Critiques the artistic ability of a young
friend of Ted's; she is more perceptive
than appreciative. 4 pp. ALS
1929 July 31 Sid Hydeman.
"Your enthusiasm and sincerity about
1929
your work prompts us to do as you
suggest on the story." Tells FRG to
bring story; they will give him two
others to choose from. Will also give
him $100 increase per picture in the
future. Telegram.
August 11 Florence Gruger to
Ted Gruger.
Elizabeth (Gruger Van Buren) is work-
1929
ing in FRG's studio and improving
marvellously. FRG says she will soon
be ready for the big magazines. She
has all the work she can do; is much
helped by FRG's criticisms. 8 pp. ALS
1929 August 25 "V."
Wants to know if FRG cannot do some-
thing about the cheap imitations of his
work appearing in the Post. Especially
enjoyed illustrations for "Behind That
Curtain;" finest illustrations he or she
has even seen. 1 p. TL
1930 June 13 Ray Long (Hearst's
International and Cosmopolitan).
Enthusiastic about latest pictures;
thinks they are the best FRG ever did
in his life. 1 p. TLS
1930 December 1 Bessie Riddell
(Saturday Evening Post).
Illustrations left this morning were
beautiful. Mr. Lorimer is delighted and
C. E. Scoggins should be thrilled. 1 p.
TLS
1930 December 14 C. E. Scoggins.
Was delighted to hear that FRG will
be illustrating his latest story, "The
House of Darkness." Feels that the
character of Kane as portrayed by FRG
"has a touch of somber mystery that
carries out my idea of him better than
I dared hope." 1 p. TLS
February 7 C. E. Scoggins.
1931
Imprint: Oregon
THE HOUSE OF DARKNESS by C. E. SCOGGINS
The Saturday Evening Post, December 13, 1930, Page 4
Thanks FRG for kind words about
doing pictures for his story. Asks if
FRG consciously uses principle of "dy-
namic symmetry" which appears in
one of his illustrations. Talks about artful simplicity of the Maya ruins, which
FRG plans to visit. 2 pp. TLS
1932 January 22 Horatio Winslow.
Is delighted to hear that he will be receiving one of the original illustrations
for "The Son of Mithra." FRG got author's viewpoint with "remarkable facility." 1 p. TLS
1932 May 16 Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
Enjoyed being with FRG and witness-
ing "deep eftection (sic)" in which
some artists hold him. Hopes illustrations for "Through Bertelot's Fence"
will be coming soon. 1 p. TLS
Fall 1981
June 15 Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
Says nothing wrong with illustrations
1932
except they were produced two-color
instead of four-color, because of expense. Afraid to tell FRG because they
thought it might upset him in the middle of his work. Telegram.
1932
June 21
M. Holman.
Has always admired FRG's illustrations; without illustrations would have
thrown down many a story without
reading it. Always thought FRG must
be interesting and was not disappointed after reading Stout's article in the
Post. 2 pp. ALS
1932 June 28 Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
Says he will never forgive FRG if he
does not send in the cavalry pictures
39
he has been working on, but does not
feel are good enough to use. Will not
show them to anyone else. 1 p. TLS
June 29 Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
1932
Says that although they have avoided
cutting prices to contributors, the depression is affecting them. Asks FRG
to share trouble with them and accept
cut in price from $400 to $350 a drawing. 1 p. TLS
1932 June29 C.N.Landon
(Hearst's International).
Did FRG succeed in getting proofs of
costume drawings from the Post? costume drawings which FRG made for
Cosmopolitan were not published for
past three or four years; does FRG recall title of story and when it was published? 1 p. TLS
1932 July 1 Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
Says how much he would have liked to
have seen the cavalry picture FRG discarded; even if it did not meet FRG's
standards, it was probably better than
one hundred others they had used. Says
it is too bad all stories cannot be writ-
ten by J. P. Marquand; is sending a
new story. 2 pp. TLS
July 5 Mary Belle McKellar.
Commends FRG on the "comprehen-
1932
sive, sweeping analysis" he gave of
the illustrator's viewpoint in Wesley
Stout's Yes, We Read the Story, June
1932, Saturday Evening Post. Appreciates his "romantic" approach, creating moods. Enjoyed his illustrations
for the J. P. Marquand pieces. 1 p. TLS
1932 July 11 Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
Says Marquand was impressed by
FRG's pictures for his story, and unhappy to hear that FRG had discarded
drawing of cavalry fight. Martin breaks
rule and suggests idea for picture to
FRG; if he does not like it he can dis410
card. 2 pp. TLS
July 11 Wesley W. Stout
(Saturday Evening Post).
Asks FRG if he can have the original
1932
of the painting for Guy Gilpatric's
"Through Bertelot's Fence." Joint ad-
miration for the artist and the story
prompts him to ask. FRG need not be
embarrassed if he has other plans for
the picture, however. 1 p. TLS
1932 August 1 L. Kritcher
(Saturday Evening Post).
Confirms telephone conversation that
Hergesheimer story will come before
the Marquand, which will be scheduled
immediately following "Chambelona."
1 p. TLS
August 9
Harry Payne Burton
(Hearst's International).
Announces the appointment of Ralph
E. Whitney as Art Editor of Cosmopolitan, replacing C. N. Landon, who
has resigned. 1 p. TLS
1932 August 16 Larry Kritcher
(Saturday Evening Post).
They received drawings for "Pianis1932
simo" and they were very fine. 1 p.
TLS
1932 August 16 L. B. Kritcher
(Saturday Evening Post) -
Thanks FRG for sending pictures for
Marquand story "High Tide." Lorimer liked them. Thanks FRG also for
cooperation while Pete Martin was
away. 1 p. TLS
August 24 Wesley W. Stout
(Saturday Evening Post).
Says picture that FRG generously of-
1932
fered to inscribe for him, "Through
Bertelot's Fence," was never mailed to
FRG because Pete Martin went on va-
cation. The oversight has been corrected and Stout hopes FRG will not
construe it as lack of appreciation. 1 p.
TLS
1932 September 1 Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post) to
Imprint:Oregon
Ann said excitedly: "1 could sell flowers. Miss Potts sold me all about a lovely flower girl in London."
FINE APPARREL by JOSEPH HERGESHEIMER
The Saturday Evening Post, February 14, 1931, Page 5
Florence Gruger.
Thanks her for letting him know about
FRG's illness; hopes some member of
the family can keep him posted. 1 p.
TLS
1932 September 8
Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post) to
Dorothy Gruger.
Is glad to hear that FRG is improving.
December 6
Adelaide W. Neall
(Saturday Evening Post).
Thanks ERG for illustrated autograph
1932
of Mrs. Eustis' book. His attitude
makes it a pleasure to ask a favor. 1 p.
TLS
1932 December 14 Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
Says they were enamored of the two
A "two-parter" has just come in that
Lorimer feels ERG would like. They
drawings for the Sullivan story
were pleased with the Hergesheimer illustrations, especially the scenes where
also by news that FRG will draw a
the three "soiled doves" are wrestling
with their companions. ("The Fools.
cap Rose.") 1 p. TLS
1932 October 5 Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
Assumes FRG is improving; when will
he be able to take more work? 1 p. TLS
Fall 1981
("Throw Him Down McCloskey") and
split spread for the horse story, "Rodney," by Leonard H. Nason. 1 p. TLS
1932 December 16 Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
Commends his pictures for "Rodney;"
FRG demonstrates "superiority of hon-
est craftsmanship to freaky sort of
thing" others are doing. 1 p. TLS
41
1932
December 27
Adelaide W. Neall
(Saturday Evening Post).
Illustration for horse parade for "Rodney" is one of "finest bits of illustration" she has seen in a long time. 1 p.
TLS
1933 February 1
Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
Sorry to hear that FRG has been sick;
he's not to worry about pictures; they
can give him extra time. 1 p. TLS
1933 June 20 T. Bayard Beatty, Jr.
Gives FRG instructions on how to correctly portray bagpipes for story "The
Portcullis Room." Sketch included. 2
pp. ALS
1933 July 18 W. E. Dodge.
Feels that FRG's illustration of "Flora"
in the Post, July 22, 1933, would be
perfect for a model of the Madonna;
more realistic than most. Thinks FRG
has caught just the right feeling. 1 p.
ALS
1933 September 26
Gruger to Ted
Gruger.
Hergesheimer has struck a snag in his
story, so it was late this week; FRG
had his grippe in peace. 6 pp. ALS
February 14 R. King.
1934
FRG's drawings in the last issue of
Post were magnificent, but it's hard
on the rest of the illustrators. King
has "been having the world's worst
time with some drawings." 2 pp. AL
February 14 Dudley Gloyne
Summers.
1934
"One of the maids was in the gallery with a candle. I called to her to bring the light."
THE PORTCULLIS ROOM by VALENTINE WILLIAMS
The Saturday Evening Post, June 24, 1933, Page 19
42
Imprint:Oregon
Tells FRG that Mr. Scoggins and other
authors should be indebted to FRG;
'this week the Post really looks like
somethinghas been very drab lately." 1 p. ALS
1934 February 28 W. Wetterhof.
Is collecting material for a book about
the late Don Byrne. As FRG did illus-
trations for some of Byrne's stories,
does he have any reminiscences of
Byrne to share? 1 p. TLS
1934
February 28 Ray Long
(Fox Film Corporation).
Planning to produce "Judge Priest"
with Will Rogers. Want to use one of
FRG's illustrations for publicity. 1 p.
TLS
1934 March 20
Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
Says how much they like the illustrations; they were "swell." (Hergesheimer's "The Foolscap Rose.") 1 p. TLS
1934 March 21 Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
Explains that they will have to decrease
size of old mill illustration, in order
to have room for the other two pictures. Clippings attached to demonstrate. 1 p. TLS
March 28 John H. Wigmore.
Compliments ERG on illustrations for
"The House of the Dawn," March 24,
1934 issue of the Post. Says the "ex-
1934
quisite softness and lifelike drawing
and perspective" are a relief after the
"extreme and bizarre" novelties popular nowadays. Hopes ERG's style will
become more widely followed. 1 p. ALS
1934 April 9 Charles Dixon Cavanah.
Admires FRG's work in the Post;
wants to know what medium and paper
FRG uses, whether he makes small,
preliminary sketches before he starts
the illustration and how much larger
his work is than the actual reproduction. 1 p. ALS
1934 May 11 Pete Martin
Pall 1981
(Saturday Evening Post).
Has used up his small store of superlatives on FRG's work; will have to
fall back on the word "good." 1 p. TLS
May 12 Gruger to Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
1934
Tells Pete not to waste regret on outworn superlatives; the word "good"
is good enough; God used it when he
surveyed his completed creation. 1 p.
ALS
1934 June 10
Walter D. Edmonds.
Thanks FRG for his delightful illustrations for his Boyd stories. They are
so exactly as Edmonds tried to describe
them that he now looks at the drawings in order to make his descriptions.
1 p. TLS
1934 July 13 Sidney R. Jacobs
(Alfred A. Knopi, Inc.).
Asks if FRG would be willing to redraw one of his illustrations for the
magazine serial, "The Foolscap Rose,"
for the jacket of the book version of
the story. Can only pay $75.00. 1 p.
TLS
1934
July 19 Gruger to Sidney R.
Jacobs (Alfred A. K.nopf, Inc.).
Feels there is some confusion about
the suggested cover design he is to do
for the jacket of "The Foolscap Rose."
Proceeds to make his own suggestions
and includes rough sketch of layout
plan. 1 p. TL
July 20 Sidney R. Jacobs
(Alfred A. Knopi, Inc.).
Is happy ERG has agreed to do jacket
1934
drawing for "The Foolscap Rose";
likes ERG's suggestion for the cover
design. Gives specifications. 1 p. TLS
1934
August 1 Sidney R. Jacobs
(Alfred A. Knopf, Inc.).
Wants to know when he can expect
final drawing for jacket of "The Foolscap Rose." 1 p. TLS
1934 August 4 Florence Gruger to
Ted Gruger.
43
Talks about making arrangements for
Jo Jackson to come up and visit FRG;
cheered FRG greatly; he got four
drawings done and started on the next
installment. 4 pp. ALS
1934 August 24 Gruger to Ted
Gruger.
Color pictures are out of the way; today was a bad day "atmospherically,"
but Post drawings are getting along.
Will work some tonight and endeavor
to finish tomorrow night. 2 pp. ALS
1934 August 30 Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
Wants to know that Faulkner illustrations are coming on time. 1 p. TLS
1934 September 13 Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
Says they like single drawing (for
Faulkner story) which arrived so much
that they are using it for the lead picture. 1 p. TLS
1934 September 14 Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
Wants FRG to write letter to George
Lorimer (Post editor) to explain his
scheme of illustration for "Ming Yellow." Martin cannot explain it satisfactorily. Frank Bensing says he has
never known ERG to do an indifferent
picture in the twenty years he has
known him. 1 p. TLS
1934 September 17 Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
from the magazine serial. Lovat Dickson is publishing book version and
wants illustration for cover. Mrs. Neall
comments that they are not very generous bidders. 1 p. TLS
1935 February 5 Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
Says he is looking forward to seeing
picture FRG is interested in, as ERG
is his own harshest critic; is sure it
will be grand. 1 p. TLS
January 3 Hugh MacNair
Kahier.
1936
Pleased with the gift of two original
Gruger illustrations for Christmas;
would "hardly have dared to ask for"
them. 1 p. TLS
March 24 Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
Wants FRG's help in fighting his gas-
1936
tric ulcers; how are illustrations for
"Indians at McKlennar's" coming.
(Walter D. Edmonds story.) 1 p. TLS
1936 April 30 Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
Thanks him for second set of illustrations for the serial; appears that FRG
must enjoy drawing many of the
scenes. New schedule for installments
of "Contrabando" are included. 1 p.
TLS
1936 May 4 Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
Says he is counting on FRG's promise
Needs illustrations for third part of
to deliver Marquand pictures along
William Faulkner story; apologizes for
pushing. 1 p. TLS
1934 September 19 Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
with the third installment of "Contrabando." 1 p. TLS
Faulkner pictures are one of FRG's
most impressive jobs. 1 p. TLS
1935 January 24 Adelaide W. Neal!
(Saturday Evening Post).
Introduces letter (attached) from
Lovat Dickson, Ltd. requesting illus-
trations and reproduction rights to
"Ming Yellow" by John P. Marquand,
44
1936 May 4 Paul Moen.
Asks what possibilities the field of illustration offers to the sincere and persistent beginner. Many have tried to
discourage him, but he would like to
ask someone who knows both opportunities and requirements. 2 pp. ALS
1936 May 15 Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
Says how much he, George Lorimer
Imprint: Oregon
and L. Kritcher like the work ERG is
doing for them. 1 p. TLS
led to expect. Can see that ERG is happier when "dismal cast iron white peo-
June 10 Ritchie Cooper.
Says how kind FRG was to him when
they were in New York; FRG gave him
a real '1ift." Wishes ERG could be his
guest; he would "gently inveigle" ERG
ple" are out of the story. Asks if he
1936
into criticism of three sets of pictures
he is about to ship to Philadelphia. 1 p.
TLS
1936 June 16
Larry Kritcher
(Saturday Evening Post).
Karl Detzer, author of "Contrabando,"
has worked on "Eiddling Fool;" if not,
they will send it to another illustrator.
lp.TLS
1936
August 31
Richard Thruelson.
Requests 250 word first-person biographical sketch for Post on FRG;
wants informal snapshots of ERG also
for feature page on Post contributors.
2 pp. TLS
1936 September 1
has written editors to tell them how
much he liked ERG's illustrations;
Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
Is enclosing story Mr. Lorimer selected
could he have one oi the originals? 1 p.
personally because he thought ERG
TLS
1936 July 17
Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
Wants to know how ERG is coming on
the "Moto" job. 1 p. TLS
1936 July 31 Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
would like it. 1 p. TLS
August 12 Y. K. Smith.
Wants ERG to make imaginative color
1937
illustration for advertising. Says it is
ERG's alley and no one else's; wire if
Says the first set of pictures for the
he consents. Telegram.
November 8 Larry Kritcher
(Saturday Evening Post).
"Moto" serial were nicer than he was
Is sending ERG the roll of gummed
1937
The faces had crowded through the doorway and gathered around them in a double ring.
MING YELLOW by .1. P. MARQUAND
The Saturday Evening Post, December 22, 1934, Page 21
Pall 1981
45
paper he promised "ages ago;" took
Gruger and William Glackens. The
of supplies; purchasing department
Ledger had the best newspaper artists.
(Jackson was head of Ledger's art de-
must be blamed. 1 p. TLS
1937 December 26 Gruger to Wesley
Stout, Saturday Eveiiing Post.
FRG discusses how disturbed he is
with prevailing view of illustration as
designed solely to attract attention.
Protests layouts sent to him with odd
shapes he must fit illustrations into.
Says he will try to get over his petu.
lance, which a constant state of protest has brought about; will continue
to deliver "the goods." 3 pp. TL
January 3 Wesley W. Stout
(Saturday Evening Post).
Says FRG has been taking art department recommendations too seriously;
they are just suggestions, designed to
1938
avoid monotony. Talks about new
story "Moto;" galleys will be rushed
to FRG shortly for illustrations. 2 pp.
TLS
1939 March 25 William T. Innes
(Innes & Sons).
Writes in response to FRG's autobiography in the Gatchel & Manning series.
Introduces himself as printer and mentions the various artists he knows. 1 p.
TLS
1939 April 12 J. B. MacKenzie,
Fox and MacKenzie, Inc.
Apologizes
for overlooking FRG's
feelings. Will see that FRG receives
the rest of the (Gatchel & Manning)
series of illustrators. Charlie Falls
thought FRG's story was one of the
cleanest and most interesting bits of
writing that he had read. 1 p. TLS
April 14 Jo Jackson.
1939
Writes in response to the comments
FRG made about him in a brief autobiographical article for a Gatchel &
Manning series on American illustrators. When Jackson learned that the
Philadelphia Ledger was to be illus46
trated, he had wanted just two artists,
it from shipping room as they were out
partment when FRG worked there.)
2 pp. ALS
1939 April 27
I. Van Meter
(Time Magazine).
Thanks FRG for his assistance to Miss
Sacartoff for her research on U. S.
illustrators. Hopes that the story meets
with FRG's approval; they are enclosing a copy. 1 p. TLS
1939 May 16 I. Van Meter
(Time Magazine).
Thanks FRG for letting them have his
note of praise for Wallace Morgan's
work; makes splendid addendum to
the May 1st report and will appear in
forthcoming issue. They will see that
FRG receives an extra copy. 1 p. TLS
1939 May 22 Gruger to Time
Magazine.
Talks about Wallace Morgan; how
they became acquainted; similarities
and differences in their work; characteristics of Morgan's style. 1 p. AL
1939 June 15 Lee de Anguinos
(Illustrators, Inc.).
At suggestion of Arthur William
Brown, is asking FRG to join Illustrators, Inc., which covers the advertising agency field. Would like to make
an appointment. 1 p. TLS
1939 June 19 Lucile Evely Hansen
to Pete Martin (Saturday
Evening Post).
FRG's illustrations for the Bobby Cork
Trout story were "really something;"
have "strength and character." 1 p.
ALS
1939 June 20 James Wiley
Woolverton.
Hopes that FRG will not mind that he
is so persistent about the drawing, but
he is very anxious for one to study.
Would like a picture made with Wolff
Imprint: Oregon
He bought everything in the China dolly's basket.
LOCAL COLOR by R. G. KIRK
The American Magazine, August 1936, Page 24
pencil and combined with wash, like
illustrations done for story about
Moses Mosby. Will pay postage. 2 pp.
ALS
1939 December 19
Albert Blumberg.
is student who just read essay on illus-
ALS
1940 February 22
Russell L. Askue.
Is long-time reader of the Post; is guid.
ed more by the name of Gruger on the
illustrations than he is by the name of
the author. Commends FRG on his
tration by FRG in graphic arts book.
States he is confused; proceeds to ask
a number of questions regarding the
purposes of the artist to present "true
characterizations and "Rembrandt.like
aura of interest . . . which no other ii.
lustrator seems able to achieve." Would
reality" or to entertain the public. 8 pp.
pp. ALS
Pall 1981
like to buy an original illustration. 3
47
Derward Hall.
April 24 J. J. Stinson
(Gatchel & Manning).
is sending FRG a complete bound set
1940 September 18
of the Gatchel & Manning series on
twelve illustrators, including FRG.
Thanks him for his cooperation. 1 p.
els, an Australian town, etc. Promised
people in Australian government office
that magazine would be well taken care
of. If there are any "kicks" about details after this, people will be referred
to the author of the article. 1 p. TLS
1940 October 30 Derward Hall.
Congratulates FRG on illustrations for
"Walk to Glory." He did nobly by the
Mulga trees; Hall would like an original illustration. 1 p. TLS
1940 November 4 Derward Hall.
1940
TLS
Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
Says FRG did as well as anyone could
have done in such a short time; they
have to rush stories into the magazine
1940
June 21
in order to get them out before the
"whole picture" changes; is war pressure. 1 p. TLS
1940
August 12
J. C. Starkey.
Has just read "Blind MacNair" in the
Post; thinks it is a most beautiful
story and the illustrations are superb.
FRG has "wonderfully depicted the
faces of those earnest old chaps." 1 p.
TLS
August 26
boss and enumerate FRG's monetary
needs, such as new suits, a car, etc.;
Pete can cry a little while he does it
and take Kritcher with him. 1 p. TL
1940 September 15 Gruger to Pete
Martin (Saturday Evening Post).
Says "Walk to Glory" is just the sort
of story he likes. Describes the research
he did to find a description of a "Mul-
ga" scrub and to decide how to dress
and adorn "native" characters. Tries to
read up all he can on unfamiliar places
and people; then draw as casually as
possible. 2 pp. TL
1940
zi.ne with pictures of Mulga trees, cam-
Thanks FRG for the picture he sent.
Would prefer to have another one with
scene of the boy behind the "Afghan"
stealing his rifle. Thanks FRG again
for his kindness. 1 p. TLS
December 8 Carl D. Lane
1940
Is enclosing galley for Post story
Gruger to Pete
Martin (Saturday Evening Post).
Suggests that Pete "slip in" to see the
1940
Is sending copy of Australian maga-
September 15 Gruger to
Derward Hall (Jacques
Chambrun, Inc.).
"Nothin' to Hinder." Offers services in
providing technical details on illustrations. Norman Rockwell made a couple
of technical slips on first pictures and
received scores of letters correcting
him. 1 p. TLS
1940 December 16
Derward Hall
(Jacques Chambrun, Inc.).
Is appalled to think of trouble it cost
FRG to get picture for him. It's splen.
did and Hall is thankful. Was able to
ignore work piled up on his desk because illustration was on iop. 1 p. TLS
December 17 Jerome Mellquist.
Is preparing a book on modern Amen.
can art with chapter on cartooning and
1940
illustration; would like to interview
FRG at his convenience. 1 p. TLS
January 29 Carl D. Lane.
Has checked out location of steamboat
1941
Requests information on "Mulga"
boilers (for Post story "The River
scrub, the paper-bark tree and the hotel
Bird") and says the way FRG planned
to handle them is correct. Is wonderful
that FRG is so accurate about minor
veranda railing for purposes of accuracy. 2 pp. TL
48
lmprint:Oregon
details. 1 p. TLS
March 4 E. W. O'Brien.
1941
Letter supplies detailed descriptions
and instructions to FRG for illustrating author's story, including ropes
around ring, hand grips, etc. Rockwell made previous illustrations for
story. (Re: "Uncle Sharkey and the
Walking Match.") 2 pp. TLS
my" was not in the pictures. Would
like one of the originals, as FRG had
promised. 1 p. TLS
1941 July 3 Carl D. Lane.
Recommends visit to the Museum of
Science and Industry at Rockefeller
Center; says it is a "worthwhile thing
Sees nothing at all wrong with FRG's
illustrations for "Nothin' to Hinder"
(the Post). FRG has caught the feel.
ing of "heat and oil, a bit of menace
and grand characters." 1 p. TLS
1941 July 17 Carl D Lane.
Wants to know how he can get one of
FRG's original drawings for himself.
Has another yarn coming; the "River
Bird" will be full of "haunts." 1 p. TLS
for any artist." Finds himself at logger-
1941
1941
March 31 Dudley Gloyne
Summers.
heads with the idea that "color must
smack one between the eyes;" prefers
"lovely, subtle harmonies." 3 pp. ALS
1941 April 1 Pete Martin
(Saturday Evening Post).
Thanks FRG for pictures of walking
race and blacksmith's job. There was
a feeling that the ropes between which
they were walking were too close, but
they are sure FRG did not place them
that way without giving the matter due
thought. 1 p. TLS
1941 May 24 Carl D. Lane.
Is delighted to know that FRG is doing
third installment of "River Bird;"
suggests where to find information to
draw illustrations. Takes issue with
scene FRG wants to draw; Lane says
it will give surprise away and lose
reader interest in story. 1 p. TLS
1941 May 27 Carl D. Lane.
Thinks FRG chose a "swell" dramatic
scene to illustrate. They should not
give reader too broad a clue as to how
the rescue takes place. Suggests sources
of information on riverboats. 1 p. TLS
1941 June 23 E. W. O'Brien.
Compliments FRG on illustrations for
"Uncle Sharkey and the Walking
Match." Took pictures to the real Sharkey, who wanted to know why "TomFall 1981
August 20 Irwin T. Cobb.
Is happy because FRG was unanimous-
ly chosen to illustrate his next book;
if book sells, people will buy because
of FRG's work, not Cobb's. 3 pp. ALS
August 30 E. W. O'Brien.
Asks FRG's pardon for not acknowl-
1941
edging and thanking him for FRG's
painting of his father; there was death
and illness in the family. Painting is
excellent and his cousin is studying it.
lp.TLS
1941
September 13
E. W. O'Brien.
Helen Ryan, Sharkey's daughter, will
be pleased to receive the other original
drawing. Can send drawing to him for
her. 1 p. TLS
1942 January 7 E. W. O'Brien.
Asks pardon for not writing sooner
about illustrations for "The Faraway
Look," but has been farmed out to
the New Jersey Defense Council. Was
extremely pleased with the illustrations
and enumerates their virtues; compares Rockwell version with FRG's.
2 pp. TLS
January 22 Florence Gruger to
Ted Gruger.
1942
Pete Martin of the Post was friendly
and encouraging; felt Mr. Stout would
see that FRG would have at least six
stories a year to illustrate for the Post;
49
"He told her to take it back home with her and bore an auger hole in a growin' tree close to where
her enemy lived and stick the charm in the hole."
"--THAT SHALL YE ALSO REAP" by IRVIN S. COBB
The Saturday Evening Post, July 15, 1922, Page 17
the Post is cutting down on its color
work. 4 pp. ALS
1947 January 20 T. K. Martin
(Review & Herald staff).
Introduces assignment of illustrating
50
Christ as High Priest. This idea has
never been illustrated before. Tells
how Christ should look and hopes that
He will inspire ERG's "talented hand."
2 pp. TLS
Imprint: Oregon
March 22 Gruger to T. K.
Martin (Review & Herald staff).
1947
Thanks him for news of Franklin
Booth's illness; paid Booth a visit. Says
omitted signature on recent illustration (Christ as High Priest) was not
intentional, although he did not care
for the illustration; too many editorial
restrictions. If FRG were God, he
would fire the angel who designed the
High Priest's hat. 1 p. TL
1947 May Gruger to T. K.
Martin (Review & Herald staff).
FRG is uncomfortable about drawing
of heaven; points out that one cannot
draw heaven in a way to please every.
one. Says there is a difference between
pictorial viewpoint and literary viewpoint. Asks for more advice on details;
says he has to be satisfied with result.
2 pp. TL
1949 January 3 Thomas B. Costain.
Mentions that Arthur William Brown
is showing signs of age; Ziff.Davis, his
publisher, is giving up publishing
books and Costain hopes this does not
mean that Brown loses out on his book
altogether; he has worked hard on it.
Costain calls new magazine format of
big pages and color photos ghastly, is
glad he is out of the business; surviving two wars was bad enough. 1 p. TLS
-
j
rI
..t
-
-
A.
I
The first two pages of Gruger's letter of February 13, 1914 to Florence Gruger.
Fa111981
51
INDEX TO CORRESPONDENTS
Advertising and Selling Magazine. (R. R. RounPage-Wood) 8-28-23, 10-5-23, 11-22-23, 11-26tree) 5-31-27.
23, 11-16-23 (telegram).
Anguinos, Lee de. See Illustrators, Inc.
Everybody's Magazine. (Rutherford Boyd) 5.
Art Directors Club. (Edie F. Molyneux) 5-5.27.
11-16.
Art Students League of New York. (Wilhelme Faber, E. L. "Lo." See Eberhard Faber Co.
Weber) 2-12.29.
Forman, Henry James. 5.19.22, 9.14-23, 9.19.23.
Askue, Russell L. 2-22-40.
Fox & MacKenzie Advertising. (J. B. MacKenBarton, Durstine & Osborn, Inc. (advertising
zie) 4-12.39.
agency; W. Arthur Cole) 6-12-23.
Fox Film Corporation. (Ray Long) 2.28.34.
Beatty, T. Bayard. 6-20-33.
& Manning. (J. J. Stinson) 4.24.-40
Austin F. Bement, Inc. (advertising agency; Gatchel
Good Housekeeping Magazine. (Grattan 0.
Frank C. Williams) 6-7-27, 6-20.27.
Condon, M. Bigelow) 10-19-21, 5-9.22.
Benét, William Rose. See Century Magazine.
Goode, K. M. (Saturday Evening Post) 12.3-15.
Bigelow, M. See Good Housekeeping Magazine.
Gould, F. M. See Metropolitan Magazine.
Blumberg, Albert. 12-19-39.
Bok, E. (Saturday Evening Post) 7-31-23.
Hale, R. T. See Small, Maynard & Co.
Booth, Franklin and Bee. 3-20-30.
Hall, Derward W. (Jacques Chambrun, Inc.)
Bowen, Mildred Capen. 10-30-21, 11.14.21, 119-18-40, 10-30-40, 11.4-40, 12.16.4.0.
23-21, 12-12-21, 3-25-22, 5-1-22. Three letters
Harper & Brothers. (William E. Mears) 6.18.23,
from Gruger to Bowen: Oct., Nov., Dec. ol
1921.
Boyd, Rutherford. See Everybody's Magazine.
Boyle, Ruth. See McCa.11's Magazine.
Buel, Clarence Clough. (Century Magazine)
6-11-16.
Burton, Harry Payne. See Hearst's International
Magazine.
Cavanah, Charles Dixon. 4-9-34.
The Century Co. 12-6-12.
Century Magazine. (William Rose Benét; see
also Clarence Clough Buel) 5-5-16, 6-2.16,
6.20-16.
Clarke, William Wallace. 3-24-16, 4.1-16, 6-14.16.
Cobb, Irwin T. 8-20-41.
Cole, W. Arthur. See Barton, Durstine & Osborn, Inc.
Condon, Grattan 0. See Good Housekeeping
Magazine.
Cooper, Ritchie. 6-10-36.
Copping, Harold. 12-6-21, 11.29-23.
Costain, Thomas B. (Saturday Evening Post)
10-30-23, 12-6-23, 1-3-49.
7-18-23, 8-16-23.
Harriman, Karl. See Red Book and Blue Book
Magazines.
Harrison, Henry Sydnor. 11-21.14.
Hearst's International Magazine with Cosmo-
politan. (Ray Long, C. N. Landon, Harry
Payne Burton) 9-21-23, 4-15-29, 6-13-30, 6-2932, 8-9-32.
Holman, M. 6-21-32.
Hoppsin, F. S. See Duffield & Co.
Houghton Muffin Co. (W. B. Pratt, Roger L.
Scaife) 4-21-22, 11-21-23, 11-27.23.
Hovey, Carl L. See Metropolitan Magazine.
Hydeman, Sid. (Saturday Evening Post) 7.31.
29.
Illustrators, Inc. 6.15-39.
Innes & Sons, Printers. 3-25-39.
International Magazine Co. (Ray Long) 4.26-22,
2-21-27.
Jackson, Joseph "Jo." 4-14-39.
Jacobs, Sidney R. See Alfred A. Knopf, Inc.
Jacques Chambrun, Inc. See Derward W. Hall.
Cox, Joreina E. Larter. 4-22-28.
Crosby, R. 2.19-23.
Ralph H. Jones Co., Advertising. (C. E. Kai-
Crowninshield, Frank. (The Coffee House)
Kaiser, C. E. See Ralph H. Jones Co.
Kelland, Clarence Budington. 8.11-27.
6-1-16.
Dodge, W. E. 7.18.33.
Dower, Walter H. (Saturday Evening Post)
4.12-16, 5.22-16. See also Ladies Home Journal.
Duffield & Co. (F. S. Hoppsin) 7-19-23.
Duganne, Phyllis. 5-31-23.
Eberhard Faber Co. (E. L. "Lo" Faber) 6.6-16,
7-13-16, 7-15-16.
Edmonds, Walter D. 6-10-34.
Erwin, Wasey & Co. (Philip W. Lennen, Gerald
52
ser) 2-1-23, 3-29-23, 10-5-23.
King, R. 2.14-34.
Alfred A. Knopf, Inc. (Sidney R. Jacobs) 7-1334, 7-19-34, 7-20-34, 8-1-34.
Kritcher, Larry B. (Saturday Evening Post)
8-1.32, 8-16-32, 6-16-36, 11-8-37, 12-11.40.
Ladies Home Journal. (Parker, Walter H.
Dower) 5-1-16, 10-28-21, 11.15.21, 3.3-22,
March 1922.
Lambkin, Edith C. See Woman's Home Companion.
Imprint: Oregon
F. R. Gruger, Artist's Model
Pall 1981
53
Landon, C. N. See Hearst's International Maga.
zine with Cosmopolitan.
Quinan, Henry B. "Harry." See Woman's Home
Companion.
Lane, Carl D. 12-8-4.0, 1-19-41, 5-24-41, 5-27-41,
7-3-41, 7.17-41.
Lennen, Philip W. See Erwin, Wasey & Co.
Little, Brown Co. 10-11-21.
Red Book and Blue Book Magazines. (Karl
Long, Ray. See Fox Film Corporation, Hearst's
International Magazine with Cosmopolitan,
and International Magazine Co.
Lorimer, George Horace. Editor, Saturday Evefling Post. 6-4-23, 10-17-23, 4-25-29.
Maclean's Magazine. (J. Vernon McKenzie)
12-8-21, 3.7-22,
10-26-23.
10-13-22,
5-12-23, 9.22.23,
Marshall, Edison. 5-28-16.
Martin, T. K. See Review & Herald Publishing
Association.
Martin, Thornton "Pete." (Saturday Evening
Post). 5-16.32, 6-15-32, 6-28-32, 6-29-32, 7-1-32,
7-11-32, 9.1-32, 9-8-32, 10-5-32, 12-14-32, 1216-32, 2-1-33, 3.20-34, 3.21-34, 5-11-34, 5-12-34,
8.30-34, 9-13.34, 9-14-34, 9-17.34, 9.19.34,
2-5.35, 3.24-36, 4-30.36, 5-4-36, 5-15-36, 7-17.36,
7-31-36, 9.1.36, 6-19.39, 6-21-40, 8-26.40, 9.15.
40, 4-1-41.
Mason, Roy M. 4-12.27.
McCarter, Henry. (Pennsylvania Academy of
Fine Arts) 6-20-28.
McClure's Magazine. (Charles Hanson Towne)
3-10-16, 6-19.16.
McKellar, Mary Belle. 7-5-32.
McKenzie, J. Vernon. See Maclean's Magazine.
MeKeogh, Arthur "Mac." (Saturday Evening
Post) 11-21-21, 2-28-22, 2-3-23, 7-25.28, 8.7.
23, 8-14-23, 8-27-23, 8.29.23, 9-12-23, 9-19.23,
10-10.23.
Mears, William E. See Harper & Brothers.
Megler, Francis. See Youth's Companion.
Mellquist, Jerome. 12-17-40.
Metropolitan Magazine. (F. M. Gould, Carl
Harriman, Henry A. Niecle) 11-30-21, 12-621, Feb. 1922, 2-11-22, 3-2-22, 3-11-22, 3-8-23,
6-7-23.
Review & Herald Publishing Association. (T. K.
Martin) 1-20-47, 3-22-47, May 1947.
Riddell, Bessie. (Satarday Evening Post) 4-1323, 4-20.23, 5-23-23, 6.7-23, 6.26-23, 4-19-27,
5-27-27, 5.31-27, 2.15-28, 4.23.28, 12-1-30.
Rountree, R. R. See Advertising & Selling
Magazine.
Saturday Evening Post. (K. M. Goode, Walter
H. Dower, Arthur McKeogh, Bessie Riddell,
George Lorimer, E. Bok, T. B. Costain, Sid
Hydeman, Adelaide W. Neall, Thornton
"Pete" Martin, Larry B. Kritcher, Wesley W.
Stout) 12-3-15, 4-12-16, 5.22-16, 11-21-21,
2-28-22, 2-3-23, 4-4-23, 4-7-23, 4-13-23, 4-20-23,
5-23-23, 6-4-23, 6.7.23, 6.26.23, 7-25-23, 7-3123, 8.7-23, 8.14-23, 8.27-23, 8.29-23, 9-12-23,
9-19-23, 10.10.23, 10.17.23, 10-30-23, 12-6-23,
4-19-27, 5-27-27, 5-31-27, 2-15-28, 4-23-28, 3-929, 4-25-29, 7-31-29, 12.1.30, 5-16-32, 6-15-32,
6.28-32, 6-29-32, 7-1-32, 7-11.32, 8.1-32, 8.1632, 8-24-32, 9-1-32, 9-8-32, 10-5-32, 10-11-32,
12-6-32, 12-14-32, 12-16-32, 12-27-32, 2-1-33,
7-28-33,
8.30-34,
3-20-34, 3-21-34, 5-11-34, 5-12-34,
9-12-34, 9-13-34, 9-14-34, 9-17-34,
9-19-34, 1.24.35, 2-5-35, 1-3.36, 3-24-36, 4-3036, 5-4-36, 5-15-36, 6-16-36, 7-17.36, 7-31-36,
8-31-36, 9-1-36, 11-10-36, 12-26-37, 1-3-38, 6-19-
39, 6-21-40, 8-14-4.0, 8-26-40, 9-15-40, 4-1-41.
Scaife, Roger L. See Houghton Muffin Co.
Scoggins, C. E. 10-10-23, 12.14-30, 2-7-31.
Shinn, Everett. Dec. 1951.
Small, Maynard & Co. (R. T. Hale) 4.17-16,
4-25-16.
Hovey) 11.4-15, 5-19-16.
Moen, Paul. 54.36.
Smith, Y. K. 8-12-37.
Starkey, J. C. 8-12-40.
Molyneux, Edie F. See Art Directors Club.
Morrison, W. B. See J. C. Dillon Co.
Mowat, Harold James. 2-16-16.
Stehman, Harry Jr. (New Era Magazine) 7-13Stinson, J. J. See Gatchel & Manning.
Neall, Adelaide W. (Secretary to the Editor,
Saturday Evening Post) 12-6-32, 12.27.32,
8.24-32, 12-26.37, 1-3.38.
Summers, Dudley Gloyne. 4.18.27, 2-14-34, 3-31-
1-24-35.
Neill, John R. 5-24.16.
Niecle, Henry A. See Red Book and Blue Book
Magazines.
O'Brien, Edward W. 3-4-41, 6-23-41, 8.30-41,
9-13-41, 1-742.
Page-Wood, Gerald. See Erwin, Wasey & Co.
Parker. See Ladies Home Journal.
Pratt, W. B. See Houghton Muffin Co.
Preston, May Wilson. 2-15-14, 2-4-15.
54
16.
Stout, Wesley W. (Saturday Evening Post)
41.
Time Magazine. (I. Van Meter) 4-27-39, 5-1639, 5-22-39.
Towne, Charles Hanson. See McClure's Magazine.
Van Meter, I. See Time Magazine.
Ver Beck, Hanna Rion. 8-21-16.
Weber, Wilhelme. See Art Students League of
New York.
Imprint: Oregon
Weston, George. 3-24-16.
Wetterhof, W. 2-28-34.
Whitman, Stephen. 11-18-115, 1.18-16, 4-6-16.
Wigmore, John H. 3-28-34.
Will Bradley, Typography and Illustration.
12-4-15, 5.2946, 6.1346, 7-15-16.
Williams, Frank C. See Austin F. Bement, Inc.
Winslow, Horatio. 1-22-32.
Wittmack, Edgar "Eddie." 7-28-23, 8-6.23.
Woman's Home Companion. (Henry B. Quinan,
Edith C. Lambkin) 10-9-22, 1-23-23, 5-2-23,
9-19-23, 9-22-23, 6-16-27, 5-2-28, 1-23-29.
Woolverton, James Wiley. 6-20-39.
Youth's Companion. (Francis Megler) 4-13-16
8.10-23, 8-12-23, 8-13-23, 8-22-23, Sept. 1923,
2-20-27,
3-19.27, 3-24-27,
4-1-27, 4-9-27, 4.15.27, 4.22-27, 4-29-27, 5.4.27,
5-6-27, 5-10-27, 5-13-27, 5-14-27, 5-20-27, 5-2727,6-3-27.
5-29-24, 6-27.24, 2.2-25,
2-25-27, 3-3-27, 3.10-27,
2- 18-27,
Gruger to Ted Gruger.
11-10-21, 10-17.22, 3-11.24, 10-8-24, 12-12.24,
12-26-24, 3-26-25, 8.14-25, 9-1-25, 9.24-25,
10-1-25, 9.23-26, 11-4.26, 12-3-26, 12.26-26,
4-30-27, 7-15-27, 8-5-27, 10-29-27, 11-11.27,
11-28-27, 11.14.28, 2-14-29, 5-4-29, 5-23-29,
7-24-29, 8-26-33, 8.24-34.
Florence Gruger to Gruger.
Sept. 1921, 10-12.21, 11-1-21, 11-9-21, 11-15-21,
11-17-21, 11-18.21, 8-4-23, 8-7-23, 8.16.23,
FAMILY LETTER INDEX
Gruger to Florence Gruger.
4-29-91, 8-3-91, 8-13-91, 12-15-05, 12-20-05,
12-25-05, 1-1-06, 1-8-06, 2-2-14, 2-9-14, 2-13-14,
2-14-14, 2-20-14, 3-6-14, 3-10-14, 3-2-20, 3-3-20,
3-5-20, 3-9-20, 3-11-20, 3-12-20, 3-13-20,3.15-20,
3-21-20, 3-23.20, 10-6-22, 10-12.22, 10-20-22,
10-23-22, 10-27.22, 10-31-22, 11-3-22, 11-7-22,
8-22-23.
Florence Gruger to Ted Gruger.
7-14-23, 8-5-23, 9-1-23, 10-12-28, 11.2.28, 1130-28, 2-8-29, 2-27.29, 3.15-29, 3-22-29, 4-17.29,
5-4-29, 5.17-29,6-11-29,8-11-29, 8-4-34, 1-22-42.
Ted Gruger to Gruger.
Aug. 1925, 8-8-26, 12-12-26, 1-1-28, 1.23-29,
4.15-29, 6-10-29.
11-13-22, 11-17-22, 11-21-22, 11-24-22, 11-26-22,
Ted Gruger to Florence Gruger.
11-27-22, 12-1-22, 12-3-22, 12-8.22, 12-11-22,
12-15-22, 12-22-22, 12-29-22, 1-1-23, 1-3-23,
Florence Gruger to Mrs. Weygandt.
1-9-23, 1-16-23, 1-19-23, 1-23-23, 1-26-23,
1-29-23, 2-3-23, 2-6-23, 2-10-23, 2-14-23, 2-16-23,
Elizabeth Gruger to FRG and Florence Gruger.
2-19.23, 2-23-23, 2-27-23, 3-2-23, 3-9-23, 7.20-23,
7-21-23, 7.22.23, 7-23-23, 7-25-23, 7.27.23,
7-28-23, 7-31-23, 8-1-23, 8-3-23, 8-5-23, 8-8-23,
5-2-29.
1-26-28.
Nov. 1921 11-15-21, 5-31-25, 6-18-25, 6-23-25,
8.2-25, 10-24-25, 6-24-26, 5-10-28, 5-12-28, June
1928, 6-6-28, 6-23-28, 7.25-28, 7.31-28, 8.28.28.
F. R. GRUGER AND HIS CIRCLE
F. R. Gruger and His Circle: The Golden Age of American Illustration, as we have
mentioned in the introduction to this issue of Imprint:Oregon, provides an enjoyable
and important account of Gruger and his associates. Artists, illustrators, literary and
art editors, authors, fans, readers, students, friends and family-all these contemporaries of Gruger have their role in his career. Bennard Penman's book relies heavily
on their comments and Gruger's observations.
In addition, the book contains numerous illustrations by Gruger and his contemporaries, plus a chronology of Gruger's life and a full record of his magazine illustration
work from 1898-1943, assembled with great care by F. R. Gruger, Jr. One result of
F. R. Gruger, Jr.'s magazine record is presented as a chart, showing the magazines
which used Gruger's illustrations and the length of years Gruger worked for each.
Back Cover Illustration
Taking a handful of some substance from the bown, the necromancer flung it into the chafing dish.
THE KING'S MINION by RAFAEL SABATINI
American Magazine, July 1930, Page 58
Fail 1981
55