Jefferson, Thomas (1743-1826) to James Dinsmore
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC07105 Author/Creator: Jefferson, Thomas (1743-1826) Place Written: Washington, D. C. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 10 June 1801 Pagination: 1 p. : address : free frank ; 24.6 x 19.1 cm Order a Copy
Discusses the renovation and construction of the dome at Monticello. "I wonder the Copper sheets had not got to hand, as it is very long since they left Philadelphia. the steps, or plinths for the dome must be got from Fluvanna...." States that it is very important that the dome be ready for the plasterers by the last of July so they may work while Jefferson is there. He instructs that the skylight of the dome is to be a single plate. Mentions that he will pay Dinsmore's brother the $400 he owns as soon as he figures out the address to send it to in Philadelphia, as he lost the one Dinsmore gave him.
One of Jefferson's few letters to refer directly to the dome at Monticello. Dinsmore was a housejoiner who worked and lived at Monticello from 1798 until 1809. He was the principal joiner for the remodeling at Monticello.
Washington June 10, 1801.
Dear Sir
Your's of the 5th is recieved [sic] this day. I wonder the Copper sheets had not got to hand, as it is very long since they left Philadelphia. the steps for plinths for the dome must be got from Fluvanne. as there seems to be too little dependance [sic] on Reuben Perry to let the whole work of the housejoiner & plaisterer depend on him alone, I will pray you to engage some other person to go on with the floors. then if mr Perry chooses to do a part, he can do it separately; if not, we shall still get the work done. it is very important that [struck: illegible] it be ready for the plaisterers by the last of July, that they may be at work while I am there. the skylight of the dome is to be a single plate.- Mr. Oldham's order shall be paid. It was not convenient for me to remit the 400 D. to your brother till the [1st of?] this month, and when I came to look for the little memorandum of his address which you had given me, I had mislaid it. if I had been sure you had but one brother in Philadelphia I should have had the paiment made through mr Trump, who I presumed would know him. however, mr Barnes has written to mr Trump to enquire & to inform your brother we have 400. D. at his order, and if he should inform us there is but one, the money will be instantly put into his hands. but for fear of delay, I shall be glad if by return of post you will again send me his address. I am with esteem Dr. Sir
Your most obedt. servt.
Th: Jefferson
Mr. James Dinsmore
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