John D. Crimmins diary

1897

John D. (John Daniel) Crimmins (1844-1917) was the leading partner of a major New York City construction contracting firm, from which he retired in 1897. He was a prominent philanthropist and supporter of Irish-American and Roman Catholic institutions. In 1868 he married Lily Louise Lalor (d. 1888); ten children survived them.The John D. Crimmins diary documents his business and social affairs in New York City, and family life at Firwood, his estate on Long Neck Point near Noroton and Darien, Connecticut. Diary entries, in a printed journal for the year 1894, span 1897 April 19-August 27 and October 1-2. They are written in four distinct hands, including a poem copied by Crimmins's daughter Mercedes for his birthday on May 18, and tasks for construction jobs noted on pages printed for 1894 September 13 and 14. Entries concern important dinners and events attended, with prominent guests such as former President Grover Cleveland, Mayor Patrick Gleason of Long Island City, Archbishop Michael A. Corrigan, and Judge Charles P. Daly; his presidency of the Second Avenue Railroad Company; his philanthropic activities; and a few construction matters. There is more extensive coverage of family events, the renovation of Firwood and its decoration, and the payment of servants and employees. Summer activities include numerous sailings with family and friends on his rented steam yacht Calypso, mainly to points on Long Island Sound.