They were pioneers in their work and their purposes were honorable.

They cooperated in effort and expenses, 'in a most commendable mutuality.
Prime movers and workers were the late Dr.Emmet, of New York, and Simon Gratz, Esq., still active in Philadelphia.

These men have done much to stimulate appreciation for and the preservation of the fundamental sources of American history.

When they began, and for many years thereafter, not the same critical standards reigned among American historians, much less among American collectors, as the canons now require.

The members of the "Club" entered into an extensive correspondence with the descendants of persons whose portraits they wished to trace and then have reproduced.