Finley, David E. (David Edward)

Scope and Contents: Handwritten letter with handwritten signature from Beatrix Farrand to John Thacher discusses Beatrix Farrand's preparation for her impending visit to Dumbarton Oaks; specifically the future of Dumbarton Oaks under the new management of Harvard University, and how that affects the gardens and Beatrix Farrand's role as Dumbarton Oak's consulting landscape gardener. Beatrix Farrand concludes the letter by suggesting John Thacher and David Finley, from the National Gallery [of Art], arrange a...

Scope and Contents: Typescript letter with handwritten signature and postscript from Beatrix Farrand to John Thacher discusses her feeling grateful for the help resolving the flower bulb issue with David Finley for the National Gallery [of Art]; need for changes to the trefoil gate, changes on the 32nd Street tablet; the historic tablet; and raising of the North Vista grade after speaking with James Bryce. Farrand and Ruth Havey have made progress on project work and agreed on a "trial marriage" for working...

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Typescript letter with handwritten signature from Beatrix Farrand to John Thacher tells him she sent James Bryce and the bulb dealer an air mail letter about the National Gallery [of Art] not needing flower bulbs. Farrand wants to know from Bryce what plant needs the Blisses will have next winter and what will be the financial arrangement buying and growing them. Farrand is not mourning over the departed red oak tree as she never liked it.

Scope and Contents: Typescript letter with handwritten signature confirms Beatrix Farrand's planned arrival to Washington, D.C. on January 16, working at Dumbarton Oaks on January 17. She offers suggestions for her and John Thacher to discuss, such as how Harvard University's acceptance of Dumbarton Oaks will affect the gardens and their future plantings. She also suggests the Catalog House continue to be developed as an educational asset to the institution and the public. Beatrix Farrand mentions sending a...

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Copy of typescript letter from Beatrix Farrand to James Bryce discusses big trumpet bulbs from Jan de Graaff (Oregon Bulb Farms) for the National Gallery of Art, Dumbarton Oaks Park negotiations, and Ruth Havey's visit which included a review of the design for the two tablet inscriptions

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Copy of typescript letter from John Thacher to Beatrix Farrand acknowledges receipt of her telegram (D:BF 1941.01.01) extending New Year's greetings, and acknowledges Beatrix Farrand's plans to visit Dumbarton Oaks on Friday January 17, 1941. John Thacher also mentions Beatrix Farrand meeting with David Finley of the National Gallery [of Art] to discuss their planting while she is in town.

Scope and Contents: Copy of typescript letter from John Thacher to Beatrix Farrand sends her a check for her services from January 1 to June 30, 1942. He asks that she let him know when her account needs to be replenished. Thacher reports on his health screening for entering the Navy Reserves and taking a few enjoyable days away to the Hot Springs where he had good conversations with Lewis Delafield. There is still no final word about the bulbs for the National Gallery [of Art]. He reports on happenings at...

Scope and Contents: Copy of typescript letter from John Thacher to Beatrix Farrand tells her Ruth Havey's visit was successful and she later sent dummies for the 32nd Street tablet and historic tablet on R Street. They were returned to her with suggestions. He reports the trefoil gate drawing is improved, but still needs work. An answer about flowers for the National Gallery [of Art] is still pending. David Finley will go over the question with Bryce this coming week. Finley needs to get three competitive bids...

Scope and Contents: Copy of typescript letter from John Thacher to Beatrix Farrand tells her that due to governement red tape providing bulbs to the National Gallery [of Art] is impossible. He reports Robert and Mildred Bliss will be returning to Washington, D.C. in the autumn. He outlines the needs for flowers in the house and surrounding buildings. Mr. Baker is not likely to resume his former work after his accident. He asks if another tree man should be hired or if an outside person/company should be hired....