The Peck Collection

The collection was brought to the attention of Melissa McHugh, Olive Free Library Director, by Tomas Hammang. The Peck family gave the collection to Tom thinking there might be research value for the public. Tom and Melissa collaborated to accession the complete library and make it available to researchers. Several of the books were in frail condition, but thanks to Kaitlin Patterson-Ueda of Little Mountain Books, they have been rebound and ready for research.

Who was Robert Peck, Sr.?

Bob Peck was born in Utica, NY, on February 4. 1885, and died on July 6, 1972. From a young age, he exhibited an insatiable curiosity and love of storytelling. This led him to Hamilton College, where he pursued a degree in journalism and achieved academic excellence and picked up a burgeoning interest in history, which would become a central theme throughout his life.

Upon graduating, Bob embarked on a distinguished career in journalism, beginning at the New York Sun. As the paper evolved into the Herald Tribune, Bob’s role grew alongside it. Over 50 years, he made an indelible mark on the paper, ultimately serving as the chief editor. His specialty was the Sunday Edition, a crucial part of the paper that combined comprehensive news coverage with engaging features and in-depth reporting.

Bob’s editorial vision and dedication to journalistic integrity helped shape the Herald Tribune into a leading source of news and analysis. His leadership during the golden age of journalism was characterized by a commitment to high standards and a passion for thorough, insightful reporting.

Bob Peck was also a fervent collector of historical books. His interest in the history of early New York and Pennsylvania, particularly from the Colonial era, was profound. He began assembling the collection in the early 1900s, seeking our rare volumes and manuscripts that captured the rich tapestry of American history.

In the early 1920s, Bob embarked on a personal project that combined his interests in history and craftsmanship. He built a house on Peck Road, using materials transported by horse-drawn carriages from the railroad station in Shokan. This residence was more than just a home; it became a sanctuary for his extensive historical book collection.

This collection found a new home at the Olive Free Library in 2024. This transition ensured that Bob’s collection could be enjoyed by future generations, continuing to serve as a valuable resource for researchers, historians, and history enthusiasts alike. The Olive Free Library has since become a special place where Bob Peck, Sr.’s legacy endures, offering access to the treasures so lovingly assembled.