Guide to the Esther Rice and Edwin Fields Collection (1880s – 1990s)

History Notes

Edwin Wilfred [E.W.] Fields (1868-1948) was born in Hampshire, Illinois . He lived in Illinois, Ohio and Red Bluff, California before becoming a resident of Santa Cruz, CA. In Red Bluff, Edwin waas introduced to the work that would eventually lead him to notoriety at the Santa Cruz Sentinel. As a boy in Red Bluff, Edwin began his trade as a printer in the year 1884. He started by delivering papers, balancing this work with chores on a farm – raking hay – and going to school. Long hours of work led to rheumatism and Edwin had to relocate to Santa Cruz where he could be treated and cured. However, Edwin’s rheumatism and re-location would result in some beneficial developments. After about two months, Edwin was cured of the rheumatism and found himself able to resume work as a printer again. He eventually started work at the Santa Cruz Sentinel in 1888, where Edwin would work at for over fifty-three years. Edwin was in charge of machinery, repairs, and head of the mechanical department and job printing. During his time with the Sentinel he gained notoriety for installing new machinery such as a No. 7 Babcock Standard bylinder press and other machinery that expedited printing at the Sentinel. In 1929 Edwin entered an agreement of partnership with F.D. McPherson to become third partner in the “Sentinel Publishing Company” and the “Santa Cruz Morning Sentinel”. He was a part owner from 1921 to 1937. Edwin was a noticeable figure riding his red bicycle to and from the Sentinel offices when they moved to Church Street in 1938. In 1941, Edwin retired from the printing business. He was married to Eva Gustafson whom he wed in 1890. Edwin passed away in 1948 and he and his wife are buried at Oakwood Cemetery in Santa Cruz. For many years they resided at 24 Riverside Ave. (Information taken from E.W. Field’s personal autobiography, diary, and S.C. Sentinel 1/19/1941 newspaper clipping, all in the Esther Rice Collection at S.C. MAH).

Esther Rice (also called Esther Lucille Fields or Esther Fields Rice) was the daughter of Edwin Fields. She was born in Santa Cruz and attended Santa Cruz High School, she graduated in 1925. After attending San Jose Junior College she received her A.B. degree from the University of California, Berkeley in 1929. She was a member of Epsilon Pi Alpha Sorority during her time there. Around 1930, before the Great Depression hit, Esther began working in the business department of the Santa Cruz Sentinel (S.C. Sentinel 3/26/1933). She was involved with advertising, bookkeeping and proof-reading. Esther may even have had the chance to publish a column on skiing that ran in the Sentinel during the late 1930’s and 1940’s under the pen name “Slope Dope”. The column focused on skiing news and tips, and occasionally detailed the trips of the Santa Cruz Ski Club (info. From the S.C. MAH E.Rice and E. Fields Collection). In 1933 Esther married Edwin Russell Rice in Redwood City. Russell, a partner in the welding firm Roberts & Rice, was secretary -treasurer of the Santa Cruz Gliders Club – he owned and flew his own plane. He learned to fly at Capitola Airport in 1930. Thus would begin Esther’s own fascination with planes and her involvement with the Santa Cruz-Capitola Airport (S.C. Sentinel 3/26/1933). Although the airport, located at Kennedy Drive and Park Avenue in Capitola, closed temporarily due to security reasons in World War II as well as Russell’s departure to serve with the Civil Air Patrol in Texas, the airport was re-opened shortly after in 1945 and included a charter service and hanger rentals. Esther and Russell managed the airport as well as a flight school, and even held fly-in events. Eventually, after managing the airport and assisting in plane’s landings and take-offs, Esther found herself on an Aeronca Champ, taking a hundred hours of flight training. After about two years, the Capitola airstrip was turned into a land development, and the airport was abandoned. Esther’s interests in planes would work its way onto the page as well. In 1947 Esther composed an article for the magazine Western Flying and became a regular author of the column “Snap Rolls from Santa Cruz” that appeared in the local magazine Flight. In 1951, Esther and Russell Rice began leasing Scotts Valley airstrip known as Sky Park. Esther and Russell devoted their time to Sky Park and catering to tourists. Esther began contributing a column to the Sentinel entitled “Sky Park Log” which gave details about pilots and planes bound for the airport. Eventually, in 1962 the city of Santa Cruz would purchase Sky Park. Russell and Esther would stay managers until 1964 when the airport was annexed. After a few years Sky Park started to be hemmed in by new business developments and Esther and Russell left. They retired in 1967. Sky Park continued operating for another decade or so but then was closed in the 1980’s after appeals by the Santa Cruz Memorial Airport Association in Superior Court were unsuccessful. Watsonville Municipal Airport is the last remaining airport such as the ones that Esther and Russell Rice operated in the 1940’s for small plane’s (Swift, Carolyn. “County airports, once tourism gateways are down to just two”, S.C. Sentinel 8/8/1999). Later in her life, Esther was a common sight at McHenry Library at U.C. Santa Cruz. There, Esther assisted in identifying thousands of photographs for researchers and historians. Esther was known to local historians as a vibrant personality and fountain of information on local history and historic sites. She passed away in 2002 at the age of 94 and was buried at Oakwood Memorial Park. She was survived by numerous cousins ( Redfern, Cathy. “Esther Lucille Rice, 94; made, chronicled Santa Cruz history” S.C. Sentinel 8/18/2002).

SERIES I. LEDGERS, PHOTOS, AND NEWS (1880s – 1990s)

Subseries I.A. Santa Cruz Ski Club (1939 – 1957)
Subseries I.B. Mazatlan Photos (1950s – 1960s)
Subseries I.C. Edwin Fields Memorabilia (1940 – 1985)
Subseries I.D. Clyde Hawthorne and Santa Cruz Boardwalk Memorabilia (1926 – 1997)
Subseries I.E. Photos and Music (1870s – 1994)
Subseries I.F. Obituaries, Programs, Brochures (1902 – 1997)
Subseries I.G. Santa Cruz High School and Airport Memorabilia (1924 – 1995)
Subseries I.H. Autobiography and Titles (1900 – 1958)
Subseries I.I. Diaries and Ledgers (1911 – 1920)

SERIES II. HISTORY AND RESEARCH (1890s – 1990s)

Subseries II.A. Pocket New Testament Psalms (1892)
Subseries II.B. 1989 Earthquake Photos (1989)
Subseries II.C. Postcards and Souvenirs (1906 – 1960)
Subseries II.D. Red Cross Certificate (1925)
Subseries II.E. Santa Cruz Sentinel History (1930s – 1950s)

Subseries II.F. Newspaper Clippings, letters, research material (1930s – 1990s)
Subseries II.G. Walking Tours and Research Anonymous Notes (1990s)

SERIES III. FAMILY PHOTOS, CIVIL AIR PATROL, ARMY, AND SKYPARK MEMORABILIA (1900s – 1980s)

Subseries III.A. Air University Certificate and U.S. Army Application (1945- 1958)
Subseries III.B. Laura Rice Thompson School Certificate and Photo (1900s – 1962)
Subseries III.C. Sky Park Photos (1947 – 1960)
Subseries III.D. Rice Family Photos (1893 – 1963)
Subseries III.E. Airport and Air Show Photos (1920s – 1950s)
Subseries III.F. Santa Cruz Memorial Airport Association (1982 – 1996)
Subseries III.G. Miscellaneous (1940s – 1990s)
Subseries III.H. Sky Park Legal Correspondence and News (1950s – 1980s)
Subseries III.I. News and Letters (1944- 1997)
Subseries III.J. Evelyn Peck Photo Album (1900 – 1920)
Subseries III. K. Army Certificate and Air Patrol Photos (1940s – 1980s)
Subseries III.L. Civil Air Patrol Applications (1952 – 1956)
Subseries III.M. Esther Rice Donation Information (

SERIES IV. PILOTS’ FLIGHT LOGS AND SKY PARK SEAL (1940s – 1980s)

Subseries IV.A. Sky Park Pocket Seal (1940s – 1960s)
Subseries IV.B. Pilots’ Flight Logs
Subseries IV.C. Sky Park Information Binder (1960s – 1980s)

SERIES V. BINDERS AND BOOKS (1921 – 1981)

Subseries V.A. Class Yearbook and E. Russell Rice Memorial Momentoes (1921 – 1981)
Subseries V.B. Sky Park Memorial Binders (1940s – 1960s)

SERIES VI. DIARIES, ID CARDS, PINS (1920s – 1950s)

Subseries VI.A. ID Cards (1940s – 1950s)
Subseries VI.B. Badges (1940s – 1950s)
Subseries VI.C. Dog Tags (1940s – 1950s)
Subseries VI.D. Ribbon Bar Medals (1940s – 1950s)
Subseries VI.E. Pocket Knife (1940s – 1960s)
Subseries VI.F. 1896 Bible (1890s – 1900s)
Subseries VI.G. Diaries (1921 – 1925)
Subseries VI.H. Tape (1990s)
Subseries VI.I. Address Book  (1900s)

SERIES VII. BIBLES, PILOTS LOGS, MEMORY BOOKS (1893 – 1981)

Subseries VII.A. Log Books (1934 – 1948)
Subseries VII.B. White’s Mortuary Memory Book (1940s – 1980s)
Subseries VII.C. Fields Family Bibles (1890s – 1900s)
Subseries VII.D. Famous Fliers A Pictorial History (1966)
Subseries VII.E. Soquel School Graduation Photos (1919 – 1921)

SERIES I. LEDGERS, PHOTOS, AND NEWS (1880s – 1990s)

One (1) Box, nine (9) folders

Series Scope and Content Summary:

This series consists of photos, diaries, and other memorabilia belonging to Edwin Fields and his wife Eva Gustafson as well as their daughter, Esther Fields Rice. Items include: diaries, account books and ledgers, photos from the 1925 class of Santa Cruz High, photos from the Santa Cruz Ski Club, photos taken by Esther Rice during a trip to Mazatlan, newspaper articles and an autobiography of Edwin Fields, newspaper clippings about Santa Cruz champion swimmer Clyde Hawthorne, popular in the 1890’s; and much more. Date range: 1880s-1990s

This series is divided into the following subseries:

Subseries I.A. Santa Cruz Ski Club
Subseries I.B. Mazatlan Photos
Subseries I.C. Edwin Fields Memorabilia
Subseries I.D. Clyde Hawthorne and Santa Cruz Boardwalk Memorabilia
Subseries I.E. Photos and Music
Subseries I.F. Obituaries, Programs, Brochures
Subseries I.G. Santa Cruz High School and Airport Memorabilia
Subseries I.H. Autobiography and Titles
Subseries I.I. Diaries and Ledgers

SUBSERIES I.A. SANTA CRUZ SKI CLUB (1939 – 1957)

One (1) Folder, forty (40) items

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of approx. forty (40) items pertaining to the Santa Cruz Ski Club. These items include: about twenty-four black and white and color photos and photo postcards ranging in size from approx. 3 ½ x 3” to 5×4” in size, photos are of Esther Rice and members of the ski club at Soda Springs, Donner Summit and other snowy places in the 1930’s-1950’s; a 1946 sheet of songs sung by the Ski Club; four newspaper clippings of the column “Snow Talk” by Esther Rice written under the pen name Slope Dope and the column “Dug-Outs with Doug Baldwin” by Esther Rice and Lowell Brady, dating from the 1930’s and 1940’s; and five (5) typed pages entitled “Slope Dope’s Diary of Donner Days” dated 1942 which appears to be about a ski trip, and more. Date range: 1939-1957

Box ID: Folder ID#:
1:1

SUBSERIES I.B. MAZATLAN PHOTOS (1950s – 1960s)

One (1) Folder, twenty-four (24) items

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of items pertaining primarily to Esther Rice’s trip to Mazatlan and to air traffic surveys. Item include but are not limited to: approx. sixteen (16) black and white photos that are 2 x5” in size and are of sites and people in Mazatlan, boating trips in Mazatlan, and preparations for travel; five black and white 5×7”photos of Ester Rice and other travelers in Mazatlan and Esther Rice fishing; schedule for flight to Mazatlan; Flight log of Santa Cruz Airmen’s Association flight to Mexico 1951; column by Ester Rice “11 Planes Participate in County Airmen’s Flight to Mexico”; Air Traffic Survey Santa Cruz Skypark Map of Santa Cruz County 1961; and more.

Box ID: Folder ID#:
1:2

SUBSERIES I.C. EDWIN FIELDS MEMORABILIA (1940 – 1985)

One (1) Folder

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of items pertaining to Edwin W. Fields. Items include but are not limited to: 1941 Santa Cruz Sentinel article entitled “Plant Superintendent Retires From Sentinel After 53 Years of Service” about Edwin Fields work history with Duncan and Fred McPherson; photocopies of the article; article “Gets Another Day off to Celebrate” 1934 article about Edwin Fields taking time off work; 1985 article on Skip Littlefield of the Seaside Co.; photo postcard with a photo Edwin Fields dated 1939, standing in from of the S.C. Sentinel building on Church Street; photo postcard of Edwin Fields and bicycle in front of Sentinel Publishing Co. from Esther Fields Rice to Stan Stevens with annotation on reverse stating that Sentinel Publishing Co. moved to new plant in summer of ’38 and that Fields (her father) was head of job printing and mechanical department, and part owner from 1921 to 1937; 1958 letter to Esther Rice from the Santa Cruz Land Title Company about sale of property for flood control purposes. Date range: 1940-1985

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
1:3

SUBSERIES I.D. CLYDE HAWTHORNE AND SANTA CRUZ BOARDWALK MEMORABILIA (1926 – 1997)

One (1) Folder, eleven (11) items

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of approx. eleven (11) items pertaining to swimmer Clyde Hawthorne and the Santa Cruz Boardwalk. Clyde Hawthorne was a champion swimmer in Santa Cruz in the 1890’s, holding records for the 100 yard swim and competing often at the Venetian Water Carnival celebration on the San Lorenzo River. Items in this series include: two page article from Coastal Homes MAGAZINE ENTITLED “The Santa Cruz Boardwalk it’s past and future” by Sam Mitchell; three (3) postcards of the Santa Cruz Boardwalk casino, one of the 1906 Casino fire, one of Casa Del Rey Hotel; two 1983 letters to Esther Rice from Skip Littlefield of the Seaside Co., one concerning information on Clyde Hawthorne; 1926 S.C. Sentinel newspaper clipping about Clyde Hawthorne’s death; five pages of photocopies of newspaper article from the 1890’s on Clyde; four pages of a typed (or photocopied) document from Warren Littlefield’s Historical file about Clyde Hawthorne’s athletic achievements and personal background; Page 40 from City of Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation catalogue featuring photo of Clyde; 1997 newspaper clipping “Boardwalk celebrates 90th year”. Date range: 1926-1997

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
1:4

SERIES I.E. PHOTOS AND MUSIC (1870s – 1994)

One (1) Folder, four (4) items

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This series consists of four (4) items. These items include: one approx. 3×2” tin type photo of three unidentified men, two seated and one standing in a studio setting; black and white 8×10” photo of nineteen (19) men, some identified, some unidentified, posing with rifles in a field, the men are from the Santa Cruz Rifle Association c. 1930-32; 5×3” oval photo within a folder embossed with Cook Studio Hollister, CA, photo is of a woman tentatively identified as Mimi or “Manie” Brittingham. The final item in this series is a pamphlet containing sheet music and lyrics for “Zasu’s Lullaby or the Jazz Baby’s Dream” by Ross Eric Gibson from the dance by Zasu Pitts, a souvenir from the Zasu Pitts Festival, 1994. Date range: 1870s-1994

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
1:5

SUBSERIES I.F. OBITUARIES, PROGRAMS, BROCHURES (1902 – 1997)

One (1) Folder, twenty (20) items

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of approx. twenty (20) letters, brochures, and newspaper clippings of obituaries belonging to Esther Rice, among other items. These items include: 1902 and 1903 newspaper clipping “Death of Mrs. Walrod” and “Mrs. Walrod’s Death” from The Miami Republic; 1924 S.C. Sentinel obituaries “Mrs. J.K. Fields”, “Mary J. Balding”, W.M. Gardner” (dated from 1927, 1937); Branciforte Bicentennial brochure from a Museum of Art and History, Santa Cruz celebration; Street and Road Map of Santa Cruz and Vicinity; letter to Esther Rice 1931, written on the envelope the words “poetry to console me the year my mother died from James So—“; Program for Pianoforte Recital 1916, Miss Southworth’s pupils (photocopy); 1997 invitation to Santa Cruz High School Centennial Committee Celebration; City of Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation 1986 brochure; 1997 Santa Cruz High School Alumni Reunion Program, and more. Date range: 1902-1997

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
1:6

SUBSERIES I.G. SANTA CRUZ HIGH SCHOOL AND AIRPORT MEMORABILIA (1924 – 1995)

One (1) Folder, fourteen (14) items

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of approx. fourteen (14) items having to do with Santa Cruz High School Class of 1925 and the Capitola Airport. Items include: 9×10” color photograph of Santa Cruz High Class of 1925 Reunion during the year 1975; 6×10” black and white photo of a 1924 Santa Cruz High School Drama Club performance, with many individuals identified on the reverse; 1930’s 7×11” black and white photo of E. Russell Rice Jr. and a plane at Capitola Airport; 6×10” black and white photo (possibly dated 1934) of young men and women in a band seated with their instruments, photo has names of individuals written on it and was taken by Melliar Photographers; two Santa Cruz High School class of 1925 Commencement Programs; newspaper clipping about the class of 1925; 1995 loan agreement papers for commencement programs and S.C. High Photos, and more. Date range: 1924-1995

Box ID: Folder ID#:
1:7

SUBSERIES I.H. AUTOBIOGRAHPY AND TITLES (1900 – 1958)

One (1) Folder, seven (7) items

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of approx. seven (7) items. These items include: one (1) Pacific Coast Writing Paper Tablet with “History of E.W. Fields” written inside and typed transcription of that history; 1934 and 1936 Certificate of Title of E.W. Fields for a lot at 24 Riverside once owned by A.R. Meserve; 1929 Agreement of Partnership between F.D. McPherson and E.W. Fields for the Sentinel Publishing Company and Santa Cruz Morning Sentinel; Deed of Reconveyance dated 1937 and mailed to Esther Rice in 1958; one (1) 8×4” book with a red leather cover stamped with gold lettering stating “Record”, inside is written “property of E.W. Fields Santa Cruz, Cal. Oct. 6, 1909 Record of Important Events”, inside is an index of events such as lists of people who died, moved away, and items bought, and diary entries for the years 1908-1932. Entries in this book include “Feb 17-Sentinel business office moved into new building on Locust street. Another item in this subseries is an 10×8” black and red bound book with “E.W. Fields” and “Church Bills” written inside. The pages contain records of E.W. Field’s income, money borrowed, receipts, confined oil interests in Fort Worth, Texas, funds disbursed, and rent collected during the years 1923-1937. Date range: 1900-1958

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
1:8

SUBSERIES I.I. DIARIES AND LEDGERS (1911 – 1920)

One (1) Folder, four (4) items

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of four (4) books ranging from 5×2” too 8×5” in size. These items include: small red notepad, 5 (l) x2 (w)” belonging to either Edwin Fields or his wife Eva Gustafson; inside are entries of events dating from September to October 1904. Entries include: “Sept. 27, 1904 7:30 am left New York for Philadelphia-arrived there at 10:30-visited Independence Hall, Carpenter Hall”. Other items include: 6×3” brown leather book with “Eva Gustafson Santa Cruz, CA” printed in ink on the cover, inside are lists of accounts and items purchased from 1888-89; 7×4” tan leather book with pocket containing accounts paid, amounts received for salary, and invoices for the years 1891-96, book likely belonged to Edwin Fields; two 8×5” blue and red cloth and leather bound books, one marked “Day Book” the other “Ledger”, both inscribed “Private account of E.W. Fields” in ink in the front covers, inside are lists of checks written, funds disbursed, and projects completed for the years 1911-1920.

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
1:9

SERIES II. HISTORY AND RESEARCH (1890s – 1990s)

One (1) Box, seven (7) folders

Series Scope and Content Summary:

This series consists of one (1) box containing seven (7) folders. Items in this subseries include items belonging to both Edwin Fields and his daughter Esther Fields Rice. These items but are not limited to: a small book of New Testament Psalms, photos taken by Esther after the October 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake hit downtown Santa Cruz, postcards, Esther Field’s certificate for the Red Cross Life Saving Corps, newspaper clippings and photos pertaining to the founding and history of the Santa Cruz Sentinel, notes from the Santa Cruz Researcher’s Anonymous meetings and much more. Date range: 1890s-1990s

This series is divided into the following subseries:

Subseries II.A. Pocket New Testament Psalms
Subseries II.B. 1989 Earthquake Photos
Subseries II.C. Postcards and Souvenirs
Subseries II.D. Red Cross Certificate
Subseries II.E. Newspaper Clippings, letters, research material
Subseries II.F. Santa Cruz Sentinel History
Subseries II.G. Walking Tours and Research Anonymous Notes

SUBSERIES II.A. POCKET NEW TESTAMENT PSALMS (1892)

One (1) Folder

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of one (1) folder containing one (1) 3 ½” x 2” of New Testament Psalms. Inside written purple pencil is the name “E.W. Fields” and “Santa Cruz, Cal Sept 14, 1892”. The book is bound in thick black leather and is in fair to good condition. The leather binding is intact, there is some staining on a few pages, and some are dog-eared or loose. However, the book is in mostly good condition. Date range: 1892

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
2:1

SUBSERIES II.B. 1989 EARTHQUAKE PHOTOS (1989)

One (1) Folder, forty (40) photos

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of one (1) folder containing approx. forty (40) photos that are 4×3” to 6×5” in size. These color photos are of homes and businesses damaged during the Loma Prieta earthquake of 1989. These photos include images of Edwin Fields home at Riverside Ave.; the Epicenter of the quake in Nisene Marks; Tea Cup Restaurant; Church Street; Esther Rice helping clean the damage around the Tea Cup Restaurant; buildings near St. George Hotel being razed; and more. The photos are in good condition and contain annotations and comments on the reverse. Date: 1989

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
2:2

SUBSERIES II.C. POSTCARDS AND SOUVENIRS (1906 – 1960)

One (1) Folder, five (5) items

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of five (5) items such as cards, postcards, and other souvenir items. These items include: coaster from Dream Inn, Santa Cruz; wedding invitation of Edith Bothwell and Duncan McPherson Jr. year 1906; 1919 Postcard and envelope from Arthur Babock to Esther Fields, with embroidered design and “Souvenir de France” on the card; 1948 Christmas card from the Ferlaak family. Date range: 1906-1960

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
2:3

SUBSERIES II.D. RED CROSS CERTIFICATE (1925)

One (1) Folder, Two (2) Items

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of two (2) items. These items are: newspaper clipping from the Oakland Tribune date 1925 featuring a photo of five women, including Esther Rice who were awarded memberships to the Red Cross Life Saving Corps and passed the required tests. Also in this subseries is the original 1925 Red Cross certificate issued to Esther Fields (Rice) entitling her to wear the insignia of the Life Saving Corps of the American National Red Cross. Date range: 1925

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
2:4

SUBSERIES II.E. SANTA CRUZ SENTINEL HISTORY (1930s – 1950s)

One (1) Folder, twelve (12) items

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of one (1) folder containing approx. twelve (12) items such as newspaper clippings and photos, pertaining to the Santa Cruz Sentinel. Items include: 1994 letter from Phil Reader to Esther Rice concerning local printer’s guilds and S.C. Sentinel information; 1955 newspaper clipping of Ernest Otto’s obituary; 1932 copy of newspaper clipping about Linotypes; S.C. Sentinel clipping of article “…The Daily Sentinel-97 Years Ago Today” (1981); 7×12” black and white photo of S.C. Sentinel staff taken in 1940, individuals are identified on reverse, photo is by Ed Webber; compilation of historical notes on the Santa Cruz Sentinel by Stanley Stevens (c. 2000); S.C. Sentinel clipping “Fred McPherson Jr. dies” (1994); newspaper clipping “Sentinel is Ottaway’s 21st Newspaper” (1982); copy of newspaper clipping 1932 “Old Linotype Machine….Displaced By Latest Model in News Office”; and copy of 1947 article “Sentinel News $60,000 Press and Stereotyping Equipment Arrive” and much more. Date range: 1930s-1950s

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
2:5

SUBSERIES II.F. NEWSPAPER CLIPPINGS, LETTERS AND RESEARCH MATERIAL(1930s – 1990s)

One (1) Folder

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of newspaper clippings on local history, letters, business cards and other items. Items include: postcard of Abbott Square, Santa Cruz; brochure, “What a Difference Memories Make” Santa Cruz High School Class of 1932 brochure; 1996 letters from Fran to Esther about newspapers and mailing addresses; 1994 S.C. Sentinel newspaper clipping “Railroad isn’t bluffing in LSB”; SAN Francisco Sunday Examiner and Chronicle clipping “Santa Cruz keeps rising from ashes”; Ross Eric Gibson business card; 1995 letter to Esther on behalf of California History Center Foundation regarding a donation; program for “The Honeymoon Coast” a staged play reading of a musical by Ross Eric Gibson; “Well Spoken Man”, S.C. Sentinel article on Ross Gibson’s bike tours (1997); copy of 1988 newspaper article “Sing a Song of Santa Cruz” about Ross Gibson collection songs and music about Santa Cruz; Carolyn Swift article on Zasu Pitts for the Mid Count Post, 1994; article “Tracking down a small train mystery” by Sandy Lydon (undated) and more. Date range: 1930s-1990s

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
2:6

SUBSERIES II.G. WALKING TOURS, RESEARCHERS ANONYMOUS NOTES (1990s)

One (1) Folder

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of approx. forty (40) pages of information pertaining to historic walking tours and meetings of the group Researcher Anonymous of Santa Cruz. Items include: packet of notes for historical walking tour of Santa Crus Memorial Park (IOOF Cemetery); Odd Fellows Cemetery Tour List of Stops; Notable Santa Cruz County Women notes prepared for Researchers Anonymous 1997 by Judy Steen; A Stich in Time: How Clothing Dates Photographs Resource List for Researchers Anonymous 1997; Branciforte Bicentennial notes; “The Santa Cruz World’s Fair” and “Railroad Heroics”, essays by Ross Gibson (1996); Researcher’s Anonymous/ Docent Training Meeting Questions 1996; Santa Cruz High School Alumni Association Wall of Fame notes on Frederick Duncan McPherson Jr. and Samuel Leask , and more. Date range: 1990s

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
2:7

SERIES III. FAMILY PHOTOS, CIVIL AIR PATROL, ARMY, AND SKYPARK MEMORABILIA (1900s – 1980s)

One (1) Box, twelve (12) folders

Series Scope and Content Summary:

This series consists of memorabilia pertaining to the Santa Cruz Civil Air Patrol division, the Santa Cruz Memorial Airport Association and Scotts Valle Sky Park, an airport run by Edwin Russell Rice and Esther Field’s in the mid 1950’s-1960’s. Items in this series include: certificates for Esther Fields Rice and E.R. Rice for the Air University and Civil Air Patrol appointments to Lieutenant and Captain; World War II Service recognition certificate for E.R. Rice; photos taken at Sky Park of planes and individuals; photos of E.R. Rice’s family in the 1900s and 1920s; correspondence, copies of legal documents, and newspaper clippings pertaining to the controversial closing of Sky Park in the 1980’s; Civil Air Patrol applications for enlistment; and 1900’s photo album, and much more. Also in this series is donor information for this collection and an inventory list. Date range: 1900s-1980s

This series is divided into the following subseries:

Subseries III.A. Air University Certificate and U.S. Army Application
Subseries III.B. Laura Rice Thompson School Certificate and Photo
Subseries III.C. Sky Park Photos
Subseries III.D. Rice Family Photos
Subseries III.E. Airport and Air Show Photos
Subseries III.F. Santa Cruz Memorial Airport Association
Subseries III.G. Miscellaneous
Subseries III.H. Sky Park Legal Correspondence and News
Subseries III.I. News and Letters
Subseries III.J. Evelyn Peck Photo Album
Subseries III. K. Army Certificate and Air Patrol Photos
Subseries III.L. Civil Air Patrol Applications
Subseries III.M. Esther Rice Donation Information

SUBSERIES III.A. AIR UNIVERSITY CERTIFICATE (1945 – 1958)

One (1) Folder, eight (8) items

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of approx. eight (8) items in one (1) folder. These items include: Esther Rice’s 1945 application for Hostess in the U.S. Army, application includes an essay she wrote which outlines her employment history and work experience, letters of recommendation, University of CA, Berkeley transcripts, and photo of Esther. Other items include: Major E.R. Rice diploma of graduation from the Officer Candidate Correspondence Course for the Air University U.S. Air Force Extension Course Institute (1957) and one for Captain E.L. Rice (1958). Date range: 1945-1958

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
3:1

SUBSERIES III.B. LAURA RICE THOMPSON SCHOOL CERTIFICATE AND PHOTO (1900s – 1962)

One (1) Folder, three (3) items

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of three (3) items in one (1) folder pertaining to E. Russell Rice’s sister, Laura Thompson Rice. Russell Rice was Esther Rice’s husband. These items include: one black and white, approx. 5×8” photo of schoolchildren and a Principal from an unnamed school, including Laura Rice in the first row. Some individuals are identified on the reverse of the photo. Other items include: 1962 certificate to Laura Thompson for years of devotion as a teacher, from the Santa Cruz Teachers Association; Letter regarding a pleasant retirement and awarding of a certificate for, A. Earle Lapp, President of S.C. Teacher’s Association to Laura Thompson dated 1962. Date range: mid 1900s-1962

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
3:2

SUBSERIES III.C. SKY PARK PHOTOS (1947 – 1960)

One (1) Folder, twenty-five (25) photos

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of approx. twenty-five (25) black and white and color photos taken at Sky Park airport in the mid-1940’s and 1950’s, along with a few photos from Capitola Airport. Photos are of fog over central California, Margery Morrison studying for a pilot’s written exam; officers with a Civil Air Patrol Aeronca during a practice search and rescue mission from Capitola Airport c. 1953; Eagle Beach Bonanza plane at Sky Park c.1947; Mrs. John Fuller in a Bonanza at Sky Park c.1947; visitors who flew in to Sky Park c.1947; Esther Rice at Sky Park c. 1957; aerial view of Sky Park after runway was lengthened c. 1948; “Fred Wright Stinson of Corcoran” at Sky Park c. 1959; Mayor of Newman (?) and his Aeronca; 1960’s photo of Russell Rice and four other individuals with a helicopter; and many more photos of planes and individuals at Sky Park. Photos range in size from approx. 3” (w) x 3” (l) to 10”x12” in size. The photos are primarily in good condition except for some with yellowing and cracking on the edges. Date range: 1947-1960

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
3:3

SUBSERIES III.D. RICE FAMILY PHOTOS (1893 – 1963)

One (1) Folder, thirty (30) photos

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of approx. thirty (30) black and sepia tone photos in one (1) folder. These photos range in size from approx. 4 ½” (w) X 3” (l) to 8×10” in size. The photos are of Russell Rice (Esther Rice’s husband) family, and include photos of Russell and his sister when they were children and adolescents, as well as photos of their mother. Items in this subseries include: 8×10” photo of Laura and Russell in 1916 when they were 9 years and 12 years of age; 5×4” 1921 photo of Laura Rice graduating from Soquel Grammer School; 7×4” photo of Don Rice in 1924 at 16 years of age (Russell’s cousin); 6×4”1893 photo of Manie (?) Brittingham at 16 years of age (Russell’s mother); 3×6” photo of Manie, baby Russell, and his father; 3×5” 1911 photo of Russell Rice and his Soquel Grammer School classmates; 7×5”1944 photo of Russell in Civil Air Patrol uniform; 11×7” studio portrait of Russell Jr. and his father E. Russell Sr.; and many more family photos. Date range: 1893-1963

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
3:4

SUBSERIES III.E. AIRPORT AND AIR SHOW PHOTOS (1920s – 1950s)

One (1) Folder

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of one (1) folder containing approx. forty (40) photos of planes, and individuals taken at various air shows and airports. The black and white and color photos range in size from approx. 2×3 ½” to 8×12” in size, and are in good condition. Photos include: Antique 7 ? Motor Stehson (?) plane on display at Watsonville Aircraft Show 1988; Fly Baby planes at Camarillo Airport 1986; Byrd Antarctic Expeditions plane c.1938; 1938 photo of Russell and ESTHER Rice standing in front of a four passenger Stinson plane at Capitols airport; photos from Camp McQuaide 1943; aircraft at S.C. Capitola Airport 1934; John Gregory of the Santa Cruz Glider Club in an Eagle Rock Glider at Capitola Airport c. 1926; group of men and women posing in front of an aircraft labeled “Unity for Service Club , National Exchange” at Sky Park c. 1931 (see reverse for identification of individuals); photo of Standard Oil Executives, Civil Aeronautics representatives, and Santa Cruz Chamber of Commerce Aviation (?) Committee at Capitola Airport c. 1931, and much more. Date range: 1920s-1950s

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
3:5

SUBSERIES III.F. SANTA CRUZ MEMORIAL AIRPORT ASSOCIATION (1982 – 1996)

One (1) Folder

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of one (1) folder containing about fifteen (15) pertaining to the Santa Cruz Memorial Airport Association (SCMAA). Items in this subseries include: 1985 Interim report from the President to the Board of Directors of the S.C. Memorial Airport Association regarding the case S.C. Memorial Airport Association vs. City of Santa Cruz, regarding Sky Park of Scotts Valley; 1962 list of donors and founders of the SCMAA and their acquisitions of properties for airport purposes; photocopies of declarations made by Ted Foster, Roy Fulmer, Alan Brown in 1982 during the case SCMAA vs. City of Santa Cruz; 1996 correspondence between the President of SCMAA and Michael Rotkin, Mayor of City of Santa Cruz regarding partial funding of airport projects beneficial to the city of Santa Cruz; report of airport commission on city’s commitment to aviation, and more. Date range: 1982-1996

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
3:6

SUBSERIES III.G. MISCELLANEOUS (1940s – 1990s)

One (1) Folder, four (4) items

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of four (4) items in one (1) folder. These items include: 9”(w)x7”(l) black and white photo c.1962 of Hall (?) and Ann Bohrer, authors of “20 Smiling Eagles” and editor of magazine “In Flight” published by the Watsonville Press; transcription of 1997 letter from Esther to Justin Rughe concerning the dedication of the Watsonville Naval Auxiliary Air Station; typed letter and copy of a 1991 newspaper clipping concerning the death of Everett Mollenhauer of Watsonville; photocopy of a 1948 article written by Esther Rice entitled “Capitola Airport Activity. Date range: 1940s-1990s

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
3:7

SUBSERIES III.H. SKY PARK LEGAL CORRESPONDENCE (1950s – 1980s)

One (1) Folder

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of documents, letters, and newspaper clippings regarding the closure of Sky Park airport in Scotts Valley and the ensuing efforts to keep it open. Items include but are not limited to: correspondence between Charles Eldridge of the S.C. Memorial Airport Association and Esther Rice concerning legal proceedings and efforts to save Sky Park, and financial compensation for loss of the airport (1982-1938); 1982 newspaper clipping “Sky Park closure to hold”; 1983 clipping “Committee to be selected to study Sky Park future; S.C. Memorial Airport Association Newsletter (1982) regarding a damage claim filed against City of Santa Cruz due to the proposed closure of Sky Park Airport; newspaper clipping 1983 “Scotts Valley residents get air show as Sky Park closes”; 1982 clipping “Sky Park to close…officially”; 1970Airport Commission minutes; 1952 certificate of shares in Sky Park Airport for William Berlin Jr.; 1951 statement of payment of $1000 to William Berlin from Sky Park Airport; and much more. Date range: 1950s-1980s

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
3:8

SUBSERIES III.I. NEWS AND LETTERS (1944 – 1997)

One (1) Folder

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of one (1) folder containing letters written to Esther Rice and various newspaper clippings. Items include: Santa’s Village themed Christmas card from Ross Gibson to Esther Rice; newspaper clipping “City’s sphere of influence set for hearing” (no date); 1944 Soroptimist International Association Brochure and introductory letter to Esther concerning election for membership; 1978 newspaper clipping “Teachers Rapped Knuckles and Boys Wore Garters” newspaper clipping of an article by Margaret Koch from the S.C. Sentinel 1978, concerning Santa Cruz High School days in the 1920’s; 1992 S.C. Sentinel newspaper clipping “Sentinel Printers Purchased, San Diego couple buys 136-yeaar-old business”; 1997 newspaper clipping “Westside oddity demystified” concerning castle like buildings at 1211 Fair Ave.; copy of 1918 newspaper clipping identifying champion swimmer Clyde Hawthorne as nephew of Mrs. E.A. Fields; letters between Esther and Vance Newcomb (1995) concerning planes and his grandmother’s flying experiences; and more. Date range: 1944-1997

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
3:9

SUBSERIES III.J. EVELYN PECK PHOTO ALBUM (1900 – 1920)

One (1) Folder, One (1) Album

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of one (1) folder containing one (1) approx. 7” (w)x13” (l) photo album belonging to Evelyn Peck; a notation on an envelope that contained the album states she is Hollis Peck’s sister, S.C. High (Santa Cruz High) class of 1919. It is uncertain how they are related to Esther Fields if at all. The album consists of approx. twenty-four (4) pages of black paper bound with string. The pages are pasted with photos of Evelyn Peck and her family and friends in the years 1900-1920. The photos are primarily of: Los Angeles, Carmel Mission, Michigan, and a few (about two pages) of Henry Cowell Big Trees park, Big Basin, and Olive Springs’ and one identified as Santa Cruz, CA. Photos include captions. Some identified individuals include: Edna Norton, Kitty Miller, Addie and Milton French, Evelyn Peck, and much more. The album is in good condition, except a few photos are missing. It is uncertain whether the album had a leather binding or was always loose pages as it is currently. This album provides an interesting look into the lifestyle of the time, including fashion, family life, farm and agriculture, households, and vehicles. Date range: 1900-1920

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
3:10

SUBSERIES III.K. ARMY CERTIFICATE AND AIR PATROL PHOTOS (1940s – 1980s)

One (1) Folder

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of one (1) folder that contains items pertaining to the Civil Air Patrol and Russell Rice, Esther Fields Rice’s husband. The items in his subseries include but are not limited to”: copy of 1981 Santa Cruz Sentinel obituary of Edwin Russell Rice; Edwin Russell Rice’s application for enlistment to the Civil Air Patrol; 1956 letter from E.R. Rice concerning his service records in the Civil Air Patrol; Civil Air Patrol Certificate of Appointment for E.R. Rice, appointed as Captain in 1952; list of those granted Cap Aeronautical Rating in the Civil Air Patrol 1951 and 1952; pilot ability check list 1952; Department of the Air Force Certificate of Honorable Service for First Lieutenant E.R. Rice for serving with the armed forces of the U.S. during World War II; Civil Air Patrol Aeronautical Rating certificate appointing E.R. Rice a pilot in the Civil Air Patrol; and much more. Also in this subseries are seven (7) black and white photos 4×3” to 4 ½”x6” in size of the Civil Air Patrol of Santa Cruz and the Army Air Base of Biggs Fields, Texas; and E.R. Rice’s Civil Air Patrol government-issued membership card, and more. Date range: 1940s-1980s

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
3:11

SUBSERIES III.L.CIVIL AIR PATROL APPLICATIONS (1952 – 1956)

One (1) Folder

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of between twenty-three to thirty application packets for enlistment in the Civil Air Patrol, a volunteer auxiliary division of the United States Air Force. These packets are from the early and mid 1950’s. Also in this subseries are statements of duties assigned signed by Edwin Russell Rice, promotions given, and lists of lieutenants and other officers appointed to the Civil Air Patrol. Also in this subseries is a black and white photo, approx. 9”(w)x12”(l) in size depicting a truck with signs stating “Civil Air Patrol, Santa Cruz SOORN(?) SQORN(?) 56, C.A.P. Air Search and Rescue, along with the sigh “Weather, Navigation, Radio, First Aid” and “US”. The photo shows seven men in the back of the truck which is driving down a road bordered by on-lookers. The reverse of the photo reads: CAP cadets of SC Squadron #56 participate I Memorial Day Parade” and “Ed Webber’s Photo Craft Shop 1374 Pacific Ave. Santa Cruz, CA”. Date range: 1952 – 1956

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
3:12

SUBSERIES III.M. ESTHER RICE DONOR INFORMATION

Three (3) Items

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of important donor information regarding the items in the Edwin Fields and Esther Rice and Edwin Fields Collection. These items include: Pajaro Valley Historical Association inventory of items donated by Esther in 1996; five page inventory list of items donated by Esther Rice in 2004, presumably to the Museum of Art and History, Santa Cruz; and a page with some biographical information and accession number on it. These items are in the front of the box.

Box ID#:
3

SERIES IV. PILOTS’ FLIGHT LOGS AND SKY PARK SEAL (1940s – 1980s)

One (1) Box

Series Scope and Content Summary:

This series consists of approximately twenty (20) pilots’ flight logs from the 1940’s-1960’s. These flight logs belonged to Edwin Russell Rice of Sky Park Airport and contain his notations on aircrafts flown, hours flown, place she flew to and other comments. Other items in this series include Sky Park Airport’s pocket seal which imprinted a logo of the airport onto paper it was pressed onto, and a binder filled with lists of pilots who flew to Sky Park or stored their aircraft there in the 1960’s, newspaper clippings, and transcriptions of letter written to preserve Sky Park. Date range: 1940s-1980s (estimated)

This series is divided into the following subseries:

Subseries IV.A. Sky Park Pocket Seal
Subseries IV.B. Pilots’ Flight Logs
Subseries IV.C. Sky Park Information Binder

SUBSERIES IV.A. SKY PARK POCKET SEAL (1940s – 1960s)

One (1) Item, one folder

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of one (1) item, a silver official pocket seal with brown and red accompanying leather pouch. The leather seal, when the handle is pressed, produces a circular seal that states: Santa Cruz Sky Park Airport, Inc. California; Incorporated October 15, 1946. In a small 6”(w)x5”(l) folder are some small pieces of paper displaying the impression of the seal. The seal is in good condition; the pouch is slightly worn and frayed. Estimated date range: 1940s-1960s

Box ID:
4

SUBSERIES IV.B. PILOTS’ FLIGHT LOGS

Twenty (20) logs

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of pilots’ flight log books and Bombardier’s log books dated from 1940-1966. About half of these flight logs belong to Edwin Russell Rice and list the date of the flight, model of aircraft flown, hours flown, areas the pilot flew too, and other remarks such as “New Year’s Day flight”, “landed at duck club”, “commercial flight test passed on Oct. 13, 1941 at Salinas Airport” and other remarks. The majority of these books are 4”(w)x7(l)” in size and were published by Steele’s Publishing House of Los Angeles, CA. About half of these books appear to have been repurposed, featuring someone else’s name on written across the edges of the pages and the front pages of the book, with Russell Rice and his address pasted over the other individual’s name.

Box ID#:
4

SUBSERIES IV.C. SKY PARK INFORMATION BINDER (1960s – 1980s)

One (1) Binder

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of one (1) 12”(w)x10”(l) brown binder with a gold patterned border and central star design on the cover. The binder contains items such as a typed list of letter from out of town users of Sky Park, and examples from the Mayor of Fresno Arthur L. Selland reads: “Sky Park is utilized very frequently by people from Fresno many of whom are engaged in agriculture. I personally, flying my own plane, have often landed at Sky Park. I find it not only convenient but safe. To close this airport would impose a hardship on the many people who use this facility.” Other items include: newspaper clippings on general aviation news from various sources from the 1960’s; typed history of Sky Park Airport; weather data and accessibility notes; list of aircrafts who mad Sky Park their home base in 1963; list of out of county residents who owned businesses and/or property in Northern Santa Cruz County; Sky Park use survey; list of out of town resident flying to Sky Park; and more. The binder is in mostly good condition except for some peeling on the spine and cracking and peeling of some of the newspaper clippings inside. Estimated date range: 1960s-1980s (?)

Box ID#:
4

SERIES V. BINDERS AND BOOKS (1921 – 1981)

One (1) Box, three (3) folders

Series Scope and Content Summary:

This series consists of one (1) box containing three (3) folders of items belonging to Edwin Russell Rice and Esther Fields Rice. These items include: two (3) binders containing news, photos, and letter from activities occurring at Sky Park airport and Santa Cruz-Capitola airport in the 1950’s-1960’s; Santa Cruz High School yearbook from 1925; photo and memorial program from Edwin Russell Rice’s memorial service in 1981. Date range: 1921-1981

This series is divided into the following subseries:

Subseries V.A. Class Yearbook and E. Russell Rice Memorial Mementoes
Subseries V.B. Sky Park Memorial Binders

SUBSERIES V.A. CLASS YEARBOOK AND E. RUSSELL RICE MEMORIAL MOMENTOES (1921 – 1981)

One (1) Folder, three (3) items

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of three (3) items in one (1) folder. These items include a School Friendship Book or class yearbook belonging to Esther Fields Rice, and two (2) items pertaining to the memorial given her husband Edwin Russell Rice after his death in April of 1981. These memorial mementoes include a card from Arnold’s Funeral Home; inside is a poem and a program for the services of E.Russell Rice’s Memorial at Soquel Congregational Church on April 7th 1981. Another item pertaining to his memorial is an approx. 7”(w)x5” photo encased in a black and gold wood, cardboard, and glass frame. The photo is of planes flying over the tower of a church with a photo of a man tucked into the lower left corner. On the reverse a caption identifies the photo as “Sky Park planes (Cherokees) fly over Soquel Church to honor Russ Rice who died 4/1/81. The School Friendship Book or yearbook is approx. 10”(w)x6”(l) in size and is a hardcover book with a white and blue cover featuring gold lettering. The book was published by Reilly & Britton Co., Chicago and was copyrighted by them in 1910. Inside is an inscription stating: “Esther Lucille Fields, from Aunt Emma and Irene Sept. 22-1921”. Inside are autographs, comments, and newspaper clippings about the graduating class of Santa Cruz High School 1925. Date range: 1921-1981

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
5:1

SUBSERIES V.B. SKY PARK MEMORIAL BINDERS (1940s – 1960s)

Two (2) Folders, Two (2) Binders

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of two (2) folders containing two (2) binders labeled “Sky Park Activities”. The first binder is approx. 14(w)”x11”and (l) in size with a black cardboard binding with a sticker labeled “1953 to 1958 Sky Park Activities”. Inside are Rice family Christmas cards, newspaper clippings about planes, Sky Park airport, visiting airmen and more, including columns on Sky Park activity written by Esther Rice; photos from Capitola-Santa Cruz airport, and Sky Park and more. Handle this item with care, although the binder is in good condition, the newspaper clippings are cracking and sticking out of the binder. This binder is in Folder 3. The second binder is bound in black cardboard, approx. 14×11” in size and labeled “Sky Park Activities 1958-1966”. Inside are newspaper clippings, articles on plane crashes, letters from pilots, copies of the publication “Flightlines”, photos from Sky Park and more. This binder is in Folder 3; handle with care since the newspaper articles are cracking. Date range: 1940s – 1960s

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
5: 2&3

SERIES VI. DIARIES, ID CARDS, PINS (1920s – 1950s)

One (1) Box

Series Scope and Content Summary:

This series consists of one (1) box containing ten (10) airman’s Identification cards, Army Air Base cards, Civil Air Patrol and other ID Cards belonging to Esther Rice and Edwin Russell Rice; a packet of five diaries belonging to Esther (Fields) Rice; badges and medals awarded to E. Russell Rice during his service with the Civil Air Patrol during and after World War II; as well as a pocket knife, dog tags, and a Bible. Date range: 1920s-1950s

This series is divided into the following subseries:

Subseries VI.A. ID Cards
Subseries VI.B. Badges
Subseries VI.C. Dog Tags
Subseries VI.D. Ribbon Bar Medals
Subseries VI.E. Pocket Knife
Subseries VI.F. 1896 Bible
Subseries VI.G. Diaries
Subseries VI.H. Tape
Subseries VI.I. Address Book

SUBSERIES VI.A. ID CARDS (1940s – 1950s)

One (1) Folder, ten (10) cards

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of ten (10) cards in one (1) 11×8” envelope “folder”. These cards include: E. Russell Rice’s Airman Identification card from the U.S. Department of Commerce Civil Aeronautics Administration; E. Russell Rice’s Civil Air Patrol ID card; Esther Rice’s Radiotelephone Operator Permit; Esther Rice’s Civil Air Patrol Officer ID Card; Edwin Russell Rice’s Army Air Base, Biggs Field, Texas, Officers Class “A” Pass; and more. Date range: 1940s-1950s

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
6:1

SUBSERIES VI.B. BADGES (1940s – 1950s)

Three (3) Pins

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of three (3) badges in one (1) 4”(w)x3(l) white acid-free box in Box 6 of the collection. These badges have been identified as the following—no.1: a Civil Air Patrol Master Command badge; once gold, the badge is now a dark, tarnished-silver color. The badge features a circle surrounding a triangular symbol crowned by a star and laurel wreath and punctuated by wings on either side. No.2: a Liaison Pilot Badge from World War II issued by the United Sates Army Air Force. This badge is now a bronze silver color, and is in the form of an “L” surrounded by a shield-like border, flanked by wings. No.3: This is a circular badge featuring a cross-like symbol surrounded by a wreath and ribbon. This badge has been identified as an Expert Marksman badge for the weapon stated on a bar under the badge. The bar under this badge reads “ Rifle”. These badges range in size from 2-3” in length. Date range: 1940s-1950s

Box ID#:
6

SUBSERIES VI.C. DOG TAGS (1940s – 1950s)

One (1) Folder, Two (2) Items

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of one (1) small 4”(w)x5”(l) envelope being called a “folder” for this subseries. This folder contains two (2) silver dog tags about 3” in length tied together by a tan string. These dog tags both state: Edwin R. Rice Jr. and the number 9-1-391 T43. These dog tags belonged to Edwin Russell Rice, husband to Esther Fields Rice, who served in the Civil Air Patrol in Santa Cruz during the 1950’s and in Texas during World War II. Date range: 1940s-1950s

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
6:2

SUBSERIES VI.D. RIBBON BAR MEDALS (1940s – 1950s)

One (1) Folder, Two (2) Items

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of one (1) small 4”(w)x5”(l) envelope being called a “folder” for this subseries. This folder contains two (2) pins, identified as Civil Air Patrol Ribbon Bar medals. The first medal is approx. 5” in length and consists of three interlinked blocks of color about ½” long; one blue bar, one yellow with what appears to be a blue cactus, and one blue, white and red, with a symbol consisting of one circle surrounded by three ovals which resembles a plane’s propeller. This ribbon bar has been identified as a Search and Rescue Medal and Aerial Target and towing and/or observation work medal. The second medal in this subseries is about 2” in length and is white with red and blue stripes, with the propeller-like symbol in the center and a smaller propeller-symbol surrounded by a triangle and made of silver attached to the outside of the medal. This medal has been identified as a Civil Air Patrol Command Award medal. Date range: 1940s-1950s

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
6:3

SUBSERIES VI.E. POCKET KNIFE (1940s – 1960s)

One (1) folder, one (1) item

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of one (1) 4”(w)x5”(l) envelope being called a “folder” for this subseries. This folder contains one (1) 4” pocket knife with attached ring for clipping onto a belt of perhaps a key-chain. The pocket knife features a black outer casing with a pattern of deeply carved spots which appear to have once been filled with beige or red paste-like material. The knife features three of four different extendable and collapsible blades like a Swiss Army brand knife. The maker of this knife however, is unknown. The knife is rusted, so handle with care. It would be advisable not to attempt to open this knife, or exercise extreme caution when doing so. The date of this knife is unknown, it could date from the 1940s-1960s.

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
6:4

SUBSERIES VI.F. 1896 BIBLE (1890s – 1900s)

One (1) Folder, One (1) Bible

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of one (1) 6”(w)x5”(l) Holy Bible containing the Old and New Testaments. Inside is the inscription “E.W. Fields Sept. 7, 1896 Santa Cruz, Cal.” And notes such as “Temperance Verses” and “Commenced Morning Bible Study May 22, 1905”. Inside this Bible some items are tucked into the pages such as advertisements for Sunday School Attendance Certificates, notes on favorite verses, and pages that appear to be from a verse book. This Bible was printed by Oxford University Press of London and New York. Handle with care, the black leather cover is battered and some pages are loose from the binding. Date range: 1890s-1900s

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
6:4

SUBSERIES VI.G. DIARIES (1921 – 1925)

Five (5) Diaries

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of five (5) diaries belonging to Esther Lucille Fields (later Rice), dating from 1921-1925. These diaries range in size from one (1) 4×3” in size to 6×4” in size. The 1925 diary features an attractive art-deco inspired cover with a gold and green design reminiscent of Frank Lloyd Wright. The other diaries are either bound in black leather with marbled ink edges on their pages, or beige cloth. Three of the diaries contain inserts giving notes on measurement conversions, yearly calendars, population counts of cities and other important information, an contain pockets in their reverse. The 1924 diary contains a small 1”x5” Christmas card to Esther from “Ml”. Some entries include: “January 1st1925 Went to flower show-stayed all night with Mildred Lemley at Colby’s-had all kinds of fun-horse shoes etc.” and “March 25th Fair-went to library after school to get material for paper on MacDowell. Went to Music Club Meeting at night with EA”. Date range: 1921-1925

Box ID#:
6

SUBSERIES VI.H. TAPE (1990s)

One (1) Folder, one (1) tape

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of one (1) tape recorded on May 11th 1996. The tape bears a label that states “Esther Rice 5/11/96 C90-Santa Cruz County Aviation 1905 to 1965” and the notation “poor quality. It is not certain what exactly this tape contains, though it may have something to do with aviation in Santa Cruz during the time specified on the tape and perhaps the airports of Scotts Valley SkyPark and Capitola-Santa Cruz airport which Esther ran. The tape is in a 6×6” envelop “folder”. Date range: 1990s

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
6:5

SUBSERIES VI.I. ADDRESS BOOK (1900s)

One (1) Folder, one (1) book

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of one (1) 5”(w)x2”(l) address book bound in maroon leather. The address book has the name “E.W. Fields” written in the front cover along with “May 12, 1911” and some personal notes. The book contains the addresses of many of Field’s acquaintances for business transactions, relatives and friends all organized alphabetically via convenient leather alphabet tabs. This book is in an 9×6” envelope “folder” and is in good condition for its age.Date range: 1900s

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
6:6

SERIES VII. BIBLES, PILOTS LOGS, MEMORY BOOKS (1893 – 1981)

One (1) Box, nine (9) items

Series Scope and Content Summary:

This series contains items belonging to Edwin Fields, Mrs. Edwin Fields (Eva Gustafson), and Edwin Russell Rice. These nine items are in one (1) box of this collection. The items include: three pilot’s log books belonging to Edwin Russell Rice, containing notes on his flights taken in the 1930s; two Bible’s, one belonging to Edwin Fields, the other to Mrs. Fields; a memory book containing information on the memorial services and burials of Edwin Fields and Edwin Russell Rice; two (2) photos from the Soquel Union School graduating classes of 1919 and 1921. Date range: 1893-1981

This series is divided into the following subseries:

Subseries VII.A. Log Books
Subseries VII.B. White’s Mortuary Memory Book
Subseries VII.C. Fields Family Bibles
Subseries VII.D. Famous Fliers A Pictorial History
Subseries VII.E. Soquel School Graduation Photos

SUBSERIES VII.A. LOG BOOKS (1934 – 1948)

Three (3) Log Books

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of three (3) Pilots Log Books from the 1930’s. Two of these log books are approx. 3 ½”(w) x 8” and feature a Shell brand logo consisting of a seashell punctuated by wings; one of these books has a brown leather case with the logo and “Russell Rice” written in gold lettering. This log book and case appears to have sustained possible water damage as it has much discoloration and spotting inside. These pilots book date from 1934-1938 and 1930-1934. Inside are written notes on total time flown, places flown to, and other notes on flights of Edwin Russell Rice. The third book in this subseries is a 4×8” blue leather bound pilot’s log owned by Esther L. Rice. The book was printed by the Air Associates Incorporated. Inside are Esther’s notes on flights she made, and flight instruction she received, among other notes for the year 1948. Date range: 1934-1948

Box ID#:
7

SUBSERIES VII.B. WHITE’S MORTUARY MEMORY BOOK (1940s – 1980s)

One (1) Book

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of one (1) 10”(w)x 6”(l) spiral bound book, with an ivory leather bound cover and a gold embossed design of a medallion encircling a valley, along with the words “Memories”. Inside the book is a paragraph stating that book is from White’s Mortuary of Watsonville and Santa Cruz, given as present for collecting memories of deceased loved ones. Inside are poems are many inspirational poems about accepting death, the journey to heaven, and embracing the afterlife, printed from various poets such as Alfred, Lord Tennyson and Emily Dikinson, compiled by White’s Mortuary. Also inside are notes on the on the services for Edwin Wilfred Fields (1868-1948), whose services were held at White’s Chapel in January of 1949, along with a program from the service. Other notes are concerning Edwin Russell Rice’s services in 1981, and include notes that appear to be written by a different hand than those that wrote the notes for Edwin Fields. These notes on Edwin Russell include who visited after his death and who sent flowers and donations to charities. Date range: 1940s – 1980s

Box ID#:
7

SUBSERIES VII.C. FIELDS FAMILY BIBLES (1890s – 1900s)

Two (2) Bibles

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of two (2) 8”(w)x6”(l) Holy Bibles. The first Bible, bound in brown leather, contains the inscription “E.W. Fields, Santa Cruz Cal Jan. 1st 1893” and “From Y.P.S.C.E. of the Church of the Blessed V?N?-illegible” written inside as well as a verse from David. This Bible is “S.S. Teacher’s Bible” (presumably Sunday School) of the Holy Bible containing the Old and New Testaments printed by Hurst & Company Publishers of New York. This Bible’s binding is very battered and flaking; handle with care. The second Holy Bible in this subseries is bound by black leather and features the name “E.W. Fields” written in gold lettering on the bottom front cover, and inside the cover in pencil along with the address “24 Riverside Ave. Santa Cruz, Cal.” This Bible is a Holy Bible containing Old and New Testaments printed by Eyre & Spottiswoode of London, Edinburgh and New York. The covers of this Bible is flaking and starting to come loose from the binding; handle with care. Date range: 1890s-1900s

Box ID#:
7

SUBSERIES VII.D. FAMOUS FLIERS A PICTORIAL HISTORY (1966)

One (1) Folder, One (1) booklet

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of one (1) folder containing one (1) 11×9” battered copy of America’s Famous Fliers: A Pictorial History, published by Walt Bohrer in 1966 and printed by Watsonville Press of Watsonville, CA. This issue focuses on pilot Tex Rankin. Inside is the inscription “To my extra special wonderful friends, Russ and Esther Rice-Happy Landings Always-Walt Bohrer”. The book contains photos, information on Tex Rankin’s trophies, family, his astounding aerial acrobatics, a timeline of his life and accomplishments and much more. This publication is battered and worn, with the front cover coming loose from the binding; handle with care. Date range: 1966

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
7:1

SUBSERIES VII.E. SOQUEL SCHOOL GRADUATION PHOTOS (1919 – 1921)

One (1) Folder, two (2) photos

Subseries Scope and Content Summary:

This subseries consists of two (2) approx. 13”(w)x11”(l) photos taken of Soquel school graduates. These photos are in an large 14”x12” envelop “folder”. One photo taken by Sherer studio of Santa Cruz depicts twenty-six young students and their Principal, seated or standing, holding diplomas. On the reverse of the photo Laura Rice (Edwin Russell Rice’s sister) and four other individuals are identified. A caption states “Soquel graduates 1921”. The second photo in this subseries depicts twelve young men and women including their Principal or teacher, seated or standing, holding diplomas. This photo is also by Sherer of Santa Cruz and on the reverse is a 1919 newspaper clipping from the Santa Cruz Evening News entitled “Soquel Union School Holds Closing Event”. This article details the Soquel Union School graduation exercises on May 23, 1919 and lists the names of the graduates, including Edwin Russell Rice (listed as Russell Rice). The article also states that Russell Rice presented the 8th grade teacher with a photo as a memento from the graduating class. The photos are in good condition, except for the photo featuring Russell Rice which has the entire right corners of the photo folded over, thus cracking the edge of the photo. Date range: 1919-1921

Box ID#: Folder ID#:
7:2