Jefferson, Thomas (1743-1826) to William Hilliard re: books for the library at the University of Virginia
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC05347 Author/Creator: Jefferson, Thomas (1743-1826) Place Written: Monticello Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 1826/05/31 Pagination: 1 p. 23.4 x 19.5 cm [address held at another institution] Order a Copy
Jefferson mentions that the crates of books have not been received yet, discusses some specific shipments, and warns Hilliard not to exceed his funds for buying books for the University.
Notes: Punctuation has been standardized. Presses are built-in cupboards for storing books. In May 1825, Jefferson retained the Boston bookseller William Hilliard of the firm Cummings and Hilliard as agent for the University of Virginia for the purchase of $18,000 worth of books. Under Hilliard's direction, books soon began arriving at Charlottesville from throughout Europe, but because the rotunda dome had developed leaks and the book shelves were not yet ready, the books could not be unpacked and shelved in their proper cases. Jefferson died six weeks after the date of his letter, before the rotunda was able to receive the books collected under his stewardship, but William Hilliard did fulfill his charge. The University appointed him to supervise the unpacking and shelving of the books, and he subsequently reported to the Board of Visitors that not only were the books in good condition and safely arrayed on the shelves, but he had not exceeded his $18,000 commission. Cf. William H. Peden, Thomas Jefferson, Book-Collector (Charlottesville: University of Virginia doctoral dissertation, 1942): 168-81.
Monticello, May 31. [18]26
Dear Sir,
My last to you was of the 6th. inst. since which yours of the 8th. is come to hand. The 3. cases of books from England, 1. from France, and 3. from Germany therein mentioned to have been shipped to the care of Colo. Peyton are not yet heard of by us. It is possible that [inserted: by] the time of their arrival at the University, the room in which they are to be arranged, and the necessary presses may be ready. It appears to me to be indispensable that your visit should be timed exactly to those two events, to wit, the actual arrival of the books here, and the readiness of the room and presses. I think it will require all June for the latter. We are pressing all our efforts to that object exclusively; but our means are limited by the want of capable workmen. I will give you punctual notice when the room and presses are actually ready. I must pray your particular attention not to let your purchases go beyond the funds already placed in your hands. We are unprepared and shall be so for a considerable time to make further purchases.
My health still prevents my visiting the University as frequently as might be desirable. I salute you with esteem and respect.
Th: Jefferson
Mr. Hilliard
Alli [?]
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