John Mitchell Mason papers, 1798-1814
Collection context
- Creator:
- Mason, John M. (John Mitchell), 1770-1829
- Abstract:
- This small collection consists of letters and reports, chiefly drafts, relating to the Reverend John Mitchell Mason's involvement with Columbia College as a Trustee, 1795-1821 and Provost 1811-1816.
- Extent:
- 0.42 linear feet 1 document box
- Language:
- English .
- Scope and content:
-
The collection is by no means complete, but adds some depth to knowledge of Mason's interest in the College and in his planning abilities, as well as his political connections in that very political age.
- Biographical / historical:
-
John Mitchell Mason was a graduate of Columbia College, A.B. 1789, and his careful reports and enthusiasm for changing the college curriculum and raising admission standards merged with his leadership in the same period of the "Scotch" (or Cedar Street) Presbyterian church, a small Presbyterian seminary that was the forerunner of Union Theological Seminary, teaching in the College, and outspoken Federalist political views.
Mason became de facto head of the college although given the title "provost" as a convention, since preexisting agreements with Trinity Church in the City of New-York required the head of the College to be of the Anglican/American Episcopalian communion, while Mason was a Presbyterian and an eminent Protestant leader during the period known as "the Second Great Awakening." He resigned from the Columbia College in 1816 because of his health and later served as President of Dickinson College, 1821-1830.
Access and use
- Restrictions:
-
This collection is located offsite. 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.
This collection has no restrictions.
- 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); John Mitchell Mason papers; Box and Folder; University Archives, Rare Book & Manuscript Library, Columbia University Libraries.
- Location of this collection:
-
6th Floor East Butler Library535 West 114th StreetNew York, NY 10027, USA
- 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:
- uarchives@columbia.edu