Thomas Jefferson wrote this book as he became prominent in the new government wrestling with questions of federalism and statehood. He originally wrote the Notes in response to questions from the Marquis de Barbé-Marbois on behalf of the French government. Later he expanded his responses into a series of 23 essays which embrace every aspect of his native state: topography, natural history, botany, mineral and agricultural productions, manufactures, religion and government, and a pioneering bibliography of state papers. This copy is inscribed: “This Book was given by the Author Mr. Jefferson to Dav.d S. Franks at Paris 7th Feb.y 1787”
This special exhibition at the Folger features rare books from the collection of Stuart and Mimi Rose that present literary, cultural, and historical high points.
