Riker Family papers, 1804-1924, bulk 1850-1911

Collection context

Creator:
Riker Family
Extent:
17 linear feet (40 boxes)
Language:
English .
Scope and content:

This collection contains legal documents from hundreds of Riker cases, and includes correspondence, wills, maps, deeds, invoices, estate inventories, and other important legal documents.

Biographical / historical:

The Riker family had an extensive law practice in New York City, extending over three generations, eight family members, and spanning over a hundred years. The firm practiced on Long Island and in Upstate New York, but the primary area of interest was Manhattan. The Riker firm specialized in estate and property law, working with some of the city's established English and Dutch elite. The contested estate of Sarah Burr in 1894 and the case involving William M. "Boss" Tweed in 1895 were handled by the Rikers.

Access and use

Restrictions:

Material is unprocessed. Please contact rbml@columbia.edu for more information.

This collection is located on-site.

This collection has no restrictions.

Terms of access:

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); Riker Family Papers; Box and Folder; Rare Book and Manuscript Library, Columbia University Library.

Location of this collection:
6th Floor East Butler Library
535 West 114th Street
New York, NY 10027, USA
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