Mary Klachko papers, 1852-1995
Collection context
- Creator:
- Klachko, Mary
- Extent:
- 22 linear feet 44 document boxes
- Language:
- English .
- Scope and content:
-
Correspondence, manuscripts, documents, memoranda, notes, reports, photographs and printed materials. The Klachko papers are almost entirely made up of her research notes for her biography of Admiral Benson. The material covers all aspects of his life, including his early naval career, his tenure as Chief of Naval Operations, and his Chairing of the U.S. Shipping Board. The catalogued correspondence are mainly replies to Klachkos̀ appeal for information about Benson, the naval and political milieu of early 20th century, and help to publish, review and edit her growing manuscript. Among the catalogued correspondence are: Norman Angell, Walter Lippmann, Edward House, and Eleanor Roosevelt. The catalogued manuscript is Klachkos̀ bio of Benson bound in 5 parts. It is interesting to note that her final manuscript draft is 1038 pages whereas the published biography merely numbers 268 pages. The rest of the collection is comprised of photos of Benson and other important naval and political figures of the time, and Klachkos̀ extensive research notes.
- Biographical / historical:
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Naval historian. Mary Klachko is the author of a number of histories of naval affairs. Among them is the important biography of William Benson, entitled, ADMIRAL WILLIAM SHEPHERD BENSON: FIRST CHIEF OF NAVAL OPERATIONS. This work is the only authoritative and exhaustive account of Bensons̀ life and contribution to American naval success during WW1. As first Chief of Naval Operations, it largely fell upon Benson to prepare the navy for entry into the Firt World War. Klachko's extensive notes go far beyond a mere descriptive account of Benson's life and offer an insightful perspective into British and American naval policy and competition during the first three decades of the 20th century.
Access and use
- Restrictions:
-
This collection is located off-site. You will need to request this material at least three business days in advance to use the collection in the Rare Book and Manuscript Library reading room.
This collection has no restrictions.
- Terms of access:
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Reproductions may be made for research purposes. The RBML maintains ownership of the physical material only. Copyright remains with the creator and his/her heirs. The responsibility to secure copyright permission rests with the patron.
- Preferred citation:
-
Identification of specific item; Date (if known); Mary Klachko papers; Box and Folder; Rare Book and Manuscript Library, Columbia University Library.
- Location of this collection:
- Before you visit:
- Researchers interested in viewing materials in the RBML reading room must must book an appointment at least 7 days in advance. To make the most of your visit, be sure to request your desired materials before booking your appointment, as researchers are limited to 5 items per day.
- Contact:
- rbml@library.columbia.edu