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Finding aid URL: https://archives.lafayette.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/pardeecalvin.pdf
Calvin Pardee (1841-1923) was the son of anthracite coal entrepreneur Ario Pardee, Jr. Calvin graduated from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1860 and was a member of Theta Delta Chi Fraternity. After graduating, he went to work for the Glendon Iron Company (Easton, PA), of which his father was primary owner. He joined the Union Army during the Civil War and served with two regiments of the Pennsylvania Volunteers. Calvin spent the next 22 years working in his father’s business, A. Pardee & Co. in Hazleton, PA as the superintendent of mines. In 1884, he left his father’s company to pursue his own ventures in coal, gas, and other enterprises. He founded the Pardee Brothers Company which was the largest source of his own fortune which he passed down to his own children in 1903. The Calvin Pardee Papers consist primarily of letters from Calvin’s family and friends during his time at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute from 1857-1860. Most letters are from his father, Ario Pardee. Miscellaneous materials include receipts, commencement programs for Rensselaer and Hobart College, a report card, and Theta Delta Chi fraternity memorabilia.