Fanny Sargent (1881 - 1978) was an accomplished engrosser when she designed the March 1901 edition of the Penman-Artist and Business Educator. She also included a small self-portrait sketch inside the journal. It caught the eye of engrosser Charlton V. (Valentine) Howe. He made inquiries to C. P. Zaner who connected the two and they began corresponding via mail.
They were married a year later on April 12, 1902 in the living room of Zaner. They had only met in person a week or two before.
Charlton died in 1950 but Fanny continued to run the studio until she retired in 1973.
There is a small collection of some of their work at the University of Scranton archives from both Fanny and Charlton. What I found interesting is the university website does not post any of the work in digital form. It must be viewed in person. There is a disclaimer that the work may contain “harmful or offensive language or imagery.” They note in the interest of historical integrity, they do not remove the work but notify potential viewers so they can decide for themselves if they wish to view it.
The IAMPETH convention is in Scranton PA this summer and will have field trips to the archives. This collection will be first on my list.
Not because of the intrigue of the “offensive language or imagery” but because I love a good love story!
