Peggy Cornell and Arthur J. Benline papers, 1900-1989

Peggy Cornell Benline (1904–1986) was an American dancer known for her performances in Europe and later as a Ziegfeld dancer in the United States. Born on January 27, 1904, she studied dance with Isadora Duncan before moving to Europe in the early 1920s, where she performed at prestigious venues such as the Paris Opera and Berlin Opera. During her time in Europe, she also danced on the French Riviera and in Monte Carlo. Upon returning to the United States, she joined the legendary Florenz Ziegfeld's productions, including "Rio Rita" (1927), "Show Boat" (1932), and Irving Berlin's "As Thousands Cheer" (1933). In 1951, she married Captain Arthur J. Benline of the United States Navy Reserve and retired from dancing. From 1981 until her death on August 30, 1986, Peggy Cornell Benline served as co-president of the Ziegfeld Club, a charitable organization that supported women in theater.

Arthur J. Benline (1902–1986) was an American architect and engineer who served as New York City's Commissioner of Air Pollution Control. Born on October 30, 1902, Benline later earned degrees in engineering and architecture from New York University. Early in his career, he worked on the construction of theaters and commercial buildings, as well as city schools and hospitals under the Federal Public Works Administration. During World War II, Benline served as a captain in the U.S. Navy, leading a special assault battalion of Seabees and was wounded during the Battle of Okinawa, earning a Bronze Star for his service. Following the war, Benline transitioned to public service, working as a housing official under Mayor Fiorello H. La Guardia, and held various city and state positions before being appointed as Commissioner of Air Pollution Control by Mayor Robert F. Wagner in 1960. During his tenure as commissioner, Benline became a vocal advocate for improving New York City's air quality and often drew attention for his innovative public awareness campaigns, including a memorable 1965 event where Rockettes launched balloons from 30 Rockefeller Plaza to trace pollution patterns. He retired from public service in 1966. Benline met his wife, Peggy Cornell Benline, through his involvement in the theater industry, and they were married for 35 years. The couple is buried together in Arlington National Cemetery.