Kibbey, Bessie J., 1857-1948
Dates
- Existence: 1857 - 1948
Biography
Bessie J. Kibbey was born in Washington, D.C. on August 19, 1857 to William R. Kibbey and Juliet Rokohl Kibbey. Her grandfather was William Beckford Kibbey, a dominant financial figure in Washington, D.C. having made his fortune in the leather export business. Bessie's parents both died when she was young and was raised by her grandfather. She was a philanthropist and donated money for the city's first playground and was an original backer of the Washington Cathedral. She was a board member of the Home for the Incurables, once located on Dumbarton Oaks property and left money to the organization for the construction of a new wing to the home. She made her home at 2025 Massachusetts Avenue from 1896 to her death on May 19, 1948. She is buried at Congressional Cemetery, Washington, D.C.
Found in 2 Collections and/or Records:
Letter from Bessie J. Kibbey, 2025 Massachusetts Avenue to Mrs. Robert Woods Bliss, October 23, 1939 Digital
Signed handwritten letter from Bessie J. Kibbey to Mildred Bliss thanks her for allowing her the pleasure of spending time in the Dumbarton Oaks Garden with her friend Mrs. Bishop and her husband.
Note on calling card from Bessie J. Kibbey, 2025 Massachusetts Avenue to Mrs. Robert Woods Bliss, between November 1-23, 1939 Digital
Handwritten note written on Bessie J. Kibbey's personal calling card to Mildred Bliss thanks her for allowing she and Mrs. Bishop to visit the Dumbarton Oaks Garden, Washington, D.C. Calling card likely left for Mildred Bliss on the day of their visit to the garden.