Ida Tarbell, born 1857 in Pennsylvania, spent much of her life in Easton on her farm at the corner of Valley and Rock House Road, depicted in this remarkable series of rare photographs that was generously provided by Allegheny College, where she was the only woman in her class of 1880.
Tarbell was not only the scion of Easton literary society - a small thriving community at the beginning of the last century - but one of the most important figures of 20th century journalism, and author of "The History of Standard Oil," which contributed to its breakup. (John D. Rockefeller disdainfully referred to her as "Tarbarrel.")
These photos show Tarbell at leisure: She tended her garden, worked in her studio - the cottage that was a poor house and a button factory during the Civil War - and entertained family (her sister lived up the road) and friends (Mark Twain was a visitor.)
Tarbell embraced Easton's natural and agricultural heritage with a passion that was undiminished through her long life; she died at her home here in 1944. To this day, the home - surrounded by the rolling hills of Centennial State Forest - retains the flavor, elegance and beauty of the many years she spent here.
CFE would like to thank Laurent and Wendy Chaix for their generosity in sharing these pictures, which come from The Ida M. Tarbell Collection, Pelletier Library, Allegheny College.
Back to Slide Show Index
© Copyright 2007 Citizens for Easton. All Rights Reserved.