Article

O'Neill Items in Library Gift

MAY 1967
Article
O'Neill Items in Library Gift
MAY 1967

AN outstanding collection relating to Eugene O'Neill is part of a gift of 2000 first editions and other volumes made to Dartmouth by O'Neill's bibliographer, Ralph Sanborn 'l7 of Hampton Falls, N. H.

The full collection assembled by Mr. Sanborn reflects special emphasis on 20th century English and American dramatists, as well as other leading literary figures of the period. There is extensive representation of Shaw, Barrie, Galsworthy, Drinkwater, and Masefield.

The O'Neill segment of the rarities given to the College by Mr. and Mrs. Sanborn consists of nearly 150 volumes, together with manuscript material and other items. Many of the letters included relate to the bibliography of O'Neill, which Mr. Sanborn prepared in collaboration with Barrett H. Clark, originally published in 1931 and still a standard work on its subject. A new edition was issued recently. Other correspondence with the author and his wife relates variously to such plays as Emperor Jones and Before Breakfast.

While actively engaged in the life insurance business in both Boston and New York for thirty years Mr. Sanborn found time to pursue his book collecting and literary interests, and for several years served as a part-time drama critic. A photographer of professional standing, he also wrote and edited extensively in the business field and prepared the country's first textbook on the subject of BusinessLife Insurance.

Mr. Sanborn entered public service on retiring from business and taking up residence in New Hampshire. He has held town offices, served in the New Hampshire Legislature, and from 1959 to 1965 was chairman of the State Historical Commission which he had helped create.

Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Sanborn '17, donors,in their library at Hampton Falls, N. H.