French, Chapman J. (Chapman Johnston)
Biographical Note
Chapman Johnston French was born on August 15, 1880 and died in Troutdale, Virginia on July 6, 1964. His parents were Charles D. (born January 8, 1850) and Annie C. Johnston French (born November 24, 1853 and died in August, 1934). In 1902, he graduated from Virginia Tech and became a civil engineer for Norfolk & Western Railway. He was a dedicated worker, who often spent the weekends in the office and traveled extensively around Virginia and West Virginia for his job. During this time, he lived in Narrows, Virginia with his first wife, Lela Lee Weatherly French. Later, Chapman and his wife moved to Roanoke. After Lela's death, which occurred sometime prior to 1930, Chapman married Mildred Greer and retired in 1950.
Found in 3 Collections and/or Records:
Chapman J. French Papers, 1903-1951 (Ms2009-034)
Chapman J. French Diaries
The collection contains twenty-three diaries meticulously written by Chapman J. French, a civil engineer for Norfolk & Western Railway, made during the years of 1906-1912, 1928-1935, and 1937-1944. The diaries relate French's daily activities at home and at work. They also include such items as addresses, cost accounts, and major league baseball scores.
Chapman J. French Papers
The collection contains papers of Chapman J. French, civil engineer employed by Norfolk & Western Railway from 1903 to 1950. It includes correspondence, memoranda, working notes, and specifications for projects as well as company and engineering department procedures. Also includes personal papers, largely relating to purchases for household and farm.