Description
The first edition of Memoir, Correspondence, and Miscellanies, from the Papers of Thomas Jefferson, the first collection of Jefferson’s papers published after his death in 1826.
Octavo, [four volumes], viii, [2], 466pp; [iv], 500pp; [iv], 519pp; [v], 532pp, [4pp. foldout]. Full contemporary tree calf, title in gilt over red morocco label. Includes the frontispiece portrait of Jefferson in Volume IV by J.B. Longacre, after Gilbert Stuart, and the four-page folding facsimile of Jefferson’s annotated Declaration of Independence. Half-title in each volume. Previous ownership inscription on the front pastedown of each volume stated “A. Roane / Feb. 1836,” possibly Anne Roane, the daughter of Judge Spencer Roane. Occasional offsetting and toning throughout all four volumes, a few dog-eared leaves. All four with solid text blocks. Rear hinge of Volume I reinforced. All four volumes with some wear to the spines, leather treated for preservation.
(Howes R-60) (Sabin 35891) (Shaw & Shoemaker 39133)
This set was edited by Thomas Jefferson Randolph (1792-1875), the eldest grandson of Thomas Jefferson and a prominent Virginia politician, planter, and businessman. He played a key role in managing Jefferson’s estate after his death and was instrumental in the publication of this memoir. Randolph was a strong advocate for gradual emancipation, he introduced a plan in the Virginia legislature in 1832 to phase out slavery, though it was unsuccessful. Randolph also served in the Virginia House of Delegates and was active in state politics throughout his life.
