Letters from Cornelia James Cannon to her parents and siblings, 1898

Schlesinger Library, Radcliffe Institute, Harvard University

Cornelia James Cannon was a member of the Radcliffe College Class of 1899. These letters to her family describe her life at Radcliffe with her sister Helen, who was a student for the 1898 academic year. She mentions attending the meetings of several clubs, including the History Club, the English Club, and the Philosophy Club. Cannon was invited to join the secret Social Club, and writes about her mixed feelings about the club’s exclusivity being against the spirit of Radcliffe (October 23, 1898). She also mentions the opening ceremony for the college gymnasium and speeches by President Elizabeth Cary Agassiz and President Charles Eliot. In addition, she mentions working as a tutor and debates taking the year off from Radcliffe to teach. Cannon also writes about Idler Club performances, attending the opera and plays, and spending time and holidays with local family. And, she mentions Walter Cannon’s hospital work and studies. A letter from Helen James to her mother is also included.

Cannon Family Papers. MC 553, folder #15.2.

Idler Club (Radcliffe College)

Radcliffe College. Class of 1899

Radcliffe College--Students

Student activities--Massachusetts--Cambridge

Women college students--Massachusetts--Cambridge

Academics

Home and Family

Student Life

Cannon, Cornelia James, 1876-1969

Sommers, Helen James

1898

West Newton, Massachusetts, United States

Correspondence

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