Close Ups from the Family Portrait

Lynda has kindly sent me some closeups from the original family portrait. It's hard to avoid the reflected light, but I am so grateful for these. I hope you enjoy pouring over them as I have. Ida Thorn Fox Ellen (Helen) Thorn Kirkland Eugene Thorn Herman Thorn

February 24, 2022 2

71st Regiment gets a New Flag

In 1862, three years after her husband's death, Jane Mary Thorn presented a flag to the 71st Regiment to honour their service. The events of the day are recounted below. I have tried to find a picture of the flag, but no luck yet. The 71st were a regiment of the New York State Militia... Continue Reading →

April 11, 2021 0

Alice, Ida and Ellen Thorn in Central Park

I discovered this delightful despcription of Alice, Ellen, and Ida Thorn being observed in their carriage as it tooled around Central Park. This was six years after the Colonel had died. Interesting to hear that Napoleon 111 was annoyed by the Colonel's flashy livery. French Landau Central Park 1865 The married daughters of the late... Continue Reading →

March 23, 2021 0

The Lost Portraits

According to Jane Mary Jauncey Thorn's last will and testament, there are some paintings I have not been able to find. It is my deepest wish to at least sight a photo of the originals some day. Any help in tracking them down is greatly appreciated: Princess Esterhazy's natural pearl tiara Madame de Varaigne and... Continue Reading →

December 7, 2020 1

Which Daughter is in the Painting?

So, I'm a little confused over something. I'd love your thoughts! Which of the Thorn girls are in the first two paintings below with Ellen? Alice or Ida? The Frick collection notes say it's the Countess de Ferussac (Alice), but in his biography Healey refers to painting the two youngest Thorn girls, which would make... Continue Reading →