University Archives receives silver cup

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University Archives is now the home to a silver cup originally presented to NU trustee Frank Crandon

On Monday, October 18, Northwestern University Archives acquired a beautiful and one-of-a kind item: a silver cup. The cup was originally awarded to Frank Crandon (Thomas Philip Franklin Crandon, 1834-1919), who was an important figure in the early history of Northwestern, upon his retirement as secretary of the University Board of Trustees in 1909. Crandon's great-grandson Bill Nichols and Nichols' granddaughter (Crandon's great-great-great-granddaughter) Margaret Nichols visited campus to formally present the trophy to the University Archives.

"We believe that Northwestern University is the logical home for the cup, and have considerable pleasure from making the gift," Bill Nichols said. "The experience has been rewarding."

Crandon's work as secretary of the NU Board of Trustees placed him in close and frequent contact with faculty and administrators and made him a confidant of other noteworthy trustees and benefactors, including William and Charles Deering. He was noted for his outstanding handwriting (University Archives hold the original hand-written minutes of the Board some of which were handwritten by Crandon).

At just under 10 inches, the sterling silver cup has three handles and is adorned with grape leaves. The cup is inscribed with a dedication to Frank Crandon: "Presented to Mr. and Mrs. Frank P. Crandon, by the Board of Trustees of Northwestern University, with their affectionate congratulations, and in appreciation of the valuable services rendered by Mr. Crandon for many years as the Secretary and Auditor of the Board. October 3, 1909"

Pictured: University Archivist Kevin Leonard receiving Crandon's cup from Bill Nichols and Margaret Nichols.