- Collection Overview
- Collection Description & Creator Information
- Access & Use
- Collection History
- Find Related Materials
Expanded View
Collection Overview
- Creator:
- Jefferson, Thomas, 1743-1826
- Collector:
- Princeton University. Library. Special Collections
- Title:
- Thomas Jefferson Collection
- Repository:
- Manuscripts Division
- Permanent URL:
- http://arks.princeton.edu/ark:/88435/vh53wv74j
- Dates:
- 1781-1826
- Size:
- 2 boxes and 0.4 linear feet
- Storage Note:
- Firestone Library (scahsvm): Box 1-2
- Language:
- English
Abstract
Consists of two manuscripts and assorted correspondence by the architect, scientist, author, and third president of the United States Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826).
Collection Description & Creator Information
- Description:
The collection consists primarily of correspondence by Jefferson concerning both personal and governmental affairs. The majority of the correspondence is original, but there are a few duplicates and transcriptions of his letters. Also included are two manuscripts: one, complete with diagrams, outlines the proper procedure for the making of nails; and the second is a contemporary copy a speech Jefferson delivered to three Indian tribes and others on 21 December 1808. In addition, there is a small selection of miscellanea, including a naval document, dated 28 December 1805 and countersigned by Secretary of State James Madison, certifying that the merchant vessel Sophrona is unarmed and requesting that she be allowed to pass freely.
The following standard abbreviations, or their variations, are used to identify materials in this collection: ALS = autograph letter signed, TLS = typed letter signed, AN = autograph note, AMs = autograph manuscript, TMs = typed manuscript, and DS = document signed.
- Collection Creator Biography:
Jefferson
Born April 13, 1743, Thomas Jefferson was the United States' third president and the author of the Declaration of Independence. Jefferson grew up in Virginia and attended the College of William and Mary, after which he studied law and was admitted to the bar in 1767. In 1779, Jefferson became the governor of Virginia, after which he took a five year residence in France from 1784 to 1789. During George Washington's presidency, Jefferson served as secretary of state, and it was during this time that he developed his rivalry with Alexander Hamilton. In 1800, Jefferson became the third president of the United States. As president, on of his most significant acts was the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. Though reelected, Jefferson's second term was somewhat troubled and he gradually lost political popularity. In his retirement, Jefferson devoted himself to his Virginia house, Monticello, and the establishment of the University of Virginia. He died on July 4, 1826.
Collection History
- Acquisition:
Letter to John Barnes bequethed by Mrs. Gibbes. Copy of Thomas Jefferson's letter is a gift of Emily Driscoll.
- Custodial History
The collection was formed as a result of a departmental practice of combining into one collection manuscript material of various accessions relating to a particular author.
- Appraisal
No appraisal information is available.
- Processing Information
This collection was processed by Ran Tao in 2003. Finding aid written by Ran Tao in 2003.
Biography written by Alyxandra Cullen, '09.
In 2022, restrictions on materials where researchers were required to use surrogates were lifted as part of a restrictions review project.
Access & Use
- Conditions Governing Access
The collection is open for research.
- Conditions Governing Use
Single photocopies may be made for research purposes. No further photoduplication of copies of material in the collection can be made when Princeton University Library does not own the original. Inquiries regarding publishing material from the collection should be directed to RBSC Public Services staff through the Ask Us! form. The library has no information on the status of literary rights in the collection and researchers are responsible for determining any questions of copyright.
- Credit this material:
Thomas Jefferson Collection; Manuscripts Division, Department of Special Collections, Princeton University Library
- Permanent URL:
- http://arks.princeton.edu/ark:/88435/vh53wv74j
- Location:
-
Firestone LibraryOne Washington RoadPrinceton, NJ 08544, USA
- Storage Note:
- Firestone Library (scahsvm): Box 1-2
Find More
- Bibliography
The following sources were consulted during preparation of biographical note: American National Biography.
- Subject Terms:
- Merchant ships -- United States -- 19th century.
Nail craft -- United States -- 19th century.
Presidents -- United States -- 19th century. - Genre Terms:
- Letters.
Manuscripts.
Ship's papers. - Names:
- Sephrona (Merchant Ship)
