Gertrude G. Cheever Porter scrapbook collection of Irish Setter show dog materials, 1932-1971, bulk: 1932-1951

Mrs. Getrude G. Cheever Porter (1889-1980) was a prominent owner and breeder of Irish Setters over the course of the 20th century. Her most esteemed dog was Ch. Milson O'Boy, who garnered 11 Best in Shows, 46 Group Firsts, and 103 Best of Breed awards. It has often been suggested that Milson was the greatest show dog of all time, achieving a unique national celebrity status.

Porter was born to a New York banking family. After her society debut, she met her future husband Seton Parter, a member of the Rockaway Hunt Club, founder by her father. During their marriage, which ended in 1924 and after which she never remarried, Porter became a champion ice skater with the New York Skating Club.

She bred her first two show dogs in 1924 but it was Milson O'Boy, whelped in 1932, that rose to the highest prominence, winning the highest honor of BIS at the Morris & Essex show in 1935, in defeat of 4,000 other dogs. He sired 17 championship dogs, including Ch. Milson O'Boy II, who became the foundtaion stud for Knightscroft Kennels. Mrs. Cheever Porter purchased Ch. Rosecroft Premier from them in 1940 for $1,500 and he came the dog who reportedly pushed Milson O'Boy from his throne.

Milson died in 1945 and was buried alongisde six other champions owned by Porter at the Hartsdale Pet Cemetary, and was joined by Rosecroft Premier in 1951.

Cheever Porter showed Irish Setters and other dogs until 1979, retiring at the age of 90, a year before her death. She started the Cheever Porter Foundation in 1962 which continues today making grants to veterinary schools and hospitals, as well as guide dog foundations.