Henry J. Anderson Papers, 1823-1844
Collection context
- Creator:
- Anderson, Henry J (Henry James), 1799-1875
- Abstract:
- The Henry J. Anderson Papers consist of some 400 personal letters spanning the adult life of Henry James Anderson. The majority of the correspondences are between Anderson and his wife, Fanny Da Ponte. There are also letters to and from various family members including his father in-law, Venetian librettist Lorenzo Da Ponte.
- Extent:
- 0.42 linear feet 1 document box
- Language:
- English , Italian .
- Scope and content:
-
These papers are carbon copies of typed copies of the original letters of Henry James Anderson. The letters describe Anderson's love and affection for his wife, Fanny Da Ponte Anderson. These correspondences attend to life in the early to mid nineteenth century on the east coast. Some letters contain price lists and budgets for both Anderson and his wife and children. Personal letters between Anderson and Venetian librettist Lorenzo Da Ponte, Anderson's father in-law, are also included in this collection.
- Biographical / historical:
-
Henry James Anderson was born in New York City in 1799. He received his Bachelor of Arts from Columbia University in 1818, and an M.D. from the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1824. He served as Professor of Mathematics and Astronomy at Columbia College from 1825-1843. At the age of 26, Anderson joined the United States Dead Sea Expedition as a geologist. While abroad, Anderson converted to the Catholic faith and would become known for his zeal and leadership within the Catholic Church throughout his lifetime. The New York Catholic Protectory was both founded upon and built under his influence; Anderson also served as president of the Catholic Union. Pope Pius IX received him numerous times, and bestowed on him the title of Knight Commander of the order of Saint Gregory the Great.
Aside from his religious merits, Anderson received an honorary L.L.D in 1850, and served as Trustee of Columbia from 1851-1875. Anderson was Professor Emeritus from 1866 until his death in 1875. The majority of Anderson's writings were for the New York Quarterly Review and mathematical journals.
Access and use
- Restrictions:
-
This collection has no restrictions.
This collection is located off-site. You will need to request this material at least three business days in advance to use the collection in the Rare Book and Manuscript Library reading room.
- Terms of access:
-
Single photocopies may be made for research purposes. The RBML maintains ownership of the physical material only. Copyright remains with the creator and his/her heirs. The responsibility to secure copyright permission rests with the patron.
- Preferred citation:
-
Identification of specific item; Date (if known); Henry James Anderson Papers; Box and Folder; Rare Book and Manuscript Library, Columbia University Library.
- Location of this collection:
- Before you visit:
- Researchers interested in viewing materials in the RBML reading room must must book an appointment at least 7 days in advance. To make the most of your visit, be sure to request your desired materials before booking your appointment, as researchers are limited to 5 items per day.
- Contact:
- rbml@library.columbia.edu