Collection on Arthur Astor Carey

Arthur Astor Carey (b. 1857 in Rome, Italy; d. 1923 in Waltham, MA) was a highly educated man from a wealthy family. Carey was a philanthropist, social worker, and staunch supporter of the arts (specifically Colonial Revival style architecture). After graduating from Harvard, Carey became president of the Society of Arts and Crafts, Boston (SACB) in 1899. SACB was founded in opposition to industrial means of production. The members were elite members of society who rose in opposition to mechanized production, which threatened to replace traditional craftsmanship. During his tenure as president, Carey suffered a nervous breakdown which may have led to his spiritual awakening in the early 1900s. After leaving the society, Carey became a minister of the General Church of New Jerusalem. Through his connection to the New Church School, Carey established a connection with the people of Waltham and set out to enrich the lives of Waltham citizens (The New Church School became the Chapel Hill Chauncy Hall School on Beaver st. in Waltham, MA).

Carey’s contributions to Waltham were great and are summarized by Karen Davis’ unpublished paper. In the essay, Davis describes Carey as being simultaneously anti-modern and progressive in his beliefs; while he was a supporter of the Colonial Revival style of architecture he was incredibly passionate about bettering the lives of the working class. Carey was especially passionate about supporting underserved children through enriching programs/activities. In 1905, Carey founded the Free Reading Room, which he funded with his own money. Anyone could be a member no matter their race, sex, or age. The group provided numerous classes and facilities meant to enrich the lives of Waltham’s citizens. Carey founded the Sea Scouts, a naval division of the Boy Scouts of America, where older boys learned about seamanship. Additionally, Carey founded the Mount Prospect School for Boys (90 Worcester Lane, Waltham, Ma). However, Carey passed away in 1923 before the school could be officially opened.