From the Collections
Stories and behind-the-scenes information on the rich holdings of our Library archives.
Mary Baker Eddy’s Copybooks
Copybooks were frequently used in the first half of the nineteenth century. The Oxford English Dictionary tells us that they are books in which “copies are written or printed for pupils to imitate” (1971 printing).
“Chafing Dish Possibilities” by Fannie Merritt Farmer
Many of us enjoy sharing good food with family and friends, and Mary Baker Eddy was no different.
Turkey Feather Fan
A student of Mary Baker Eddy once commented, “Mrs. Eddy seemed to care little for the large or expensive presents given her by her followers, but she called …
Winter at Pleasant View
As we look at photographs of life at Pleasant View, Mary Baker Eddy’s home in Concord, N.H., it’s fascinating to see a quiet New England town of a century ago.
Preservation of Mary Baker Eddy’s Original Letters and Manuscripts
With all the focus on digitization of documents today, it’s easy to forget that preservation is not a new issue. In fact, proper preservation of Mary Baker Eddy’s letters and manuscripts was first considered over 90 years ago.
Pears Soap
Possibly some of the most unique items in the collections at The Mary Baker Eddy Library are three cakes of Pears Soap.
Gems for You: From New Hampshire Authors
In the nineteenth century, gift books were tokens—not meant so much to be read as to be given away, often for remembrance of a person or event.
Souvenir Spoons In The Library Collections
Souvenir spoons representing many localities, causes, and events were very much in demand from the 1890s through the 1920s. They were purchased as mementos of trips and vacations and also as gifts. We find a number of these spoons in the collections that were gifts to...
Baker Family Bible: “A Holy Book and a Family Treasure”
Family Bibles have been used over the centuries to record births, marriages, and deaths. In many family circles, they are traditionally used for daily reading and prayer as well as at these significant family events.
Opening doors, opening minds: The business and calling cards of Mary Baker Eddy
This month’s objects—Mary Baker Eddy’s calling cards and business cards—played a small role in helping to open doors so she could open minds.
What is the story behind this picture?
The story behind the photo of Adam Dickey with Spike the squirrel.
The pipe organ in The Mother Church Extension
Read about the history of this magnificent instrument.
The Dawn: “A Masterpiece of Skill”
Read the story behind one of the most dramatic paintings that Mary Baker Eddy owned.
Calvin Frye’s camera
Learn more about Calvin Frye’s love for technology and see how he used his camera in Eddy’s household.
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