Amos Heavilon diary

Collection — Box: 1

Identifier: MSP 290

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

The Amos Heavilon diary documents one year in the later stages of the life of Amos Heavilon, Clinton county farmer and businessman. This collection includes personal records, photocopies and a typed transcript of the diary. Also included is a typed, biographical sketch of Mr. Heavilon and his family. Insight into the living conditions of the 1890's is revealed and illustrates that not all were as successful and fortunate as Mr. Heavilon.

Dates

Creation: 1892 - 1999
Creation: Majority of material found within August 15, 1892 - August 15, 1893

Creator

Heavilon, Amos (Author, Person)
Downey, Franklin John, Jr (Author, Person)

Language of Materials

Collection material is in English.

Access Information

The collection is open for research.

Copyright and Use Information

Diary in this collection is in the public domain. Diary transcript and excerpts copyright retained by Franklin Downey.

Biographical Information

Amos Heavilon was born August 15, 1828 in Butler Co., Ohio. His family moved to Frankfort, Indiana when he was two years old. He started out as a farmer, began purchasing farms and land, and became quite successful in Clinton County. He helped form the Clinto County Bank in 1890. In 1892, he became a major benefactor to Purdue University by donating $20,000 in notes and an additional $15,000 in real estate. In his diary he writes that he believed his money would be well suited in assisting those who wanted an education, but were struggling to pay for it. He writes of his intent and the reasons behind the decision to donate money to the University. Originally named the Heavilon Shops, the original building was demolished in 1956. A new buiding was erected by 1959 and named Heavilon Hall for him. He died Nov 18. 1893 not able to fully enjoy the result of his donation. He funding was second only to John Purdue's at the time.

Extent

0.20 Cubic Feet (One half-width letter-size manuscript box) : One diary wrapped in tissue paper and two acid free folders containing supplemental materials.

Additional Description

Physical Access Information

The diary is fragile and should be handled with care.

Custodial History

The diary was in the possession of Frances McNutt Nelson for many years. She preserved it and eventually gave it to her sister along with some other family history materials.

Acquisition Information

Diary donated by Barbara McNutt Downey, a descendent of Jane Heavilon (Amos's sister), on May 15, 1999. Transcription provided by her brother-in-law, Frank Downey in 1999. Mr. Downey also selected and donated the excerpts he felt pertinent to Purdue when transcribing the diary.