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Title: Wood from the Petite Hermine
Description: Letter sent to John A. McAllister accompanied the relic, “Poughkeepsie, N.Y. Oct. 21, 1858 My Dear Friend, On my return home I found a piece of wood that has been sent to me from Mr. John Laird, of Quebec, which he assures me is a well authenticated piece of the Petite Hermine, one of Jacques Cartier’s vessels which he abandoned there in the spring of 1536. It was brought up from about ten feet below the surface of the mud, and with it was an ancient ‘chain plate’ such as has now been used in modern vessels. From the character of Mr. Laird, I am convinced that it is what it purports to be. I thought you might be willing to accept a small piece of such a curious relic, so I send it to you with the kindest regards of myself, Mrs. L. and Miss L. Yours very truly, Benson J. Lossing.”, Gift of John A. McAllister, 1866.
Date: Ca. 1536
Location: OBJ 115

Title: Tall Case Clock
Description: Oak case with walnut veneer., Inscribed on face, "Johannes Fromanteel Londini fecit.", Days of the month are shown in the square opening below the hands., Gift of William Hudson, Sept. 5, 1796.
Creator: Fromanteel, Johannes, ca. 1638- ca. 1692
Date: ca. 1673
Location: OBJ 003

Title: Willam and Mary Secretary Desk
Description: Oak with black walnut veneer., This desk was owned by William Penn., John Fanning Watson saw the desk in 1827 when it was owned by Nathaniel Coleman, a silversmith of Burlington, N.J. Watson described the piece as in "in very old & unsightly condition," but it still had its mirrors. The desk no longer has mirrors., Gift of John Jay Smith, 1873., Exhibited in the Library Company's exhibition, Quarter of a Millennium (1981). Exhibited at the State Museum in Harrisburg, PA, 1964-1966 and 1993-1994.
Date: ca. 1680 to possibly after 1710
Location: OBJ 005

Title: Tall Case Clock
Description: Oak case with walnut veneer., Inscription on face reads, "Will Martin Bristol facet.", This clock was made for William Penn., Gift of Sally Price Warder., Exhibited at the Great Central Fair in Philadelphia, in the "Wm. Penn Parlor" (1864).
Creator: Martin, William, w.c. 1689-1739
Date: ca. 1685-1700
Location: OBJ 004

Title: Nail from Christ Church, Philadelphia
Description: Nail from Christ Church. Reads, “Christ Church in Phila. 1695.” Encased in plastic?
Date: 1695
Location: OBJ 884

Title: Pewter Plate
Description: Stamps on the back indicate it was made 1697-1720: a lion’s head erased; Britannia; “London”; an indistinguishable mark that may have once been a date letter; a crowned X; a touch mark of either AMH or A & H; and two identical marls of a spread eagle between towers., Bequest of Dr. James Rush, 1869.
Date: ca. 1697-1720?
Location: OBJ 149

Title: The South East Prospect of the City of Philadelphia
Description: The South East Prospect of the City of Philadelphia is the oldest surviving oil painting that depicts a North American city. A key at the bottom numbers and identifies landmarks. The arms of William Penn and the City of Philadelphia appear in the top corners. In the lower left corner the artist has depicted himself sketching the scene., LCP Minutes vol. 7, February 5, 1857, p. 92-93: "Mr. Hutchinson read the following letter from Hon. George M. Dallas (Minister to Great Britain), dated London, January 12, 1857 and laid on the table the painting therein mentioned. `I will send for the Phila Liby an antique daub painted as is believed here in 1720 purporting to be "The South East prospect of the city of Philadelphia by Peter Cooper, painter." It is on torn canvas some 8 feet long by 1 1/2 wide. One of the members of Parliament in looking over the rubbish of a City curiosity shop picked it up and brought it to me. The principal buildings of the City at that day are pointed out & 24 good old Philadelphia Householders are named in the margin. Although worthless on any score but that connection with Auld Lang Syne it presents at half a glance so strong a contrast to the Consolidated City of 1857 that it has its interest for a corner of the Phila Library'. Whereupon the following Resolution was unanimously adopted:`Resolved that the Directors of the Library Company of Phila having received from the Hon. George M. Dallas a picture of Phila. by Peter Cooper do return him their grateful thanks for his attention and kindness in procuring & transmitting to them a most interesting & valuable Record of the appearance of our City as it was upward of a century & quarter ago, with a reference to the public buildings & private residences of many of our earliest and most remarkable citizens.'", Gift of George Mifflin Dallas, 1857., Exhibited in: Great Central Fair in Philadelphia, in the "Wm. Penn Parlor" (1864); Pennsylvania Museum of Art's exhibition, The Sea (1935); Metropolitan Museum of Art's exhibition, Franklin and His Circle (1936); Corcoran Gallery's exhibition, American Processional, 1492-1900, (1950); University of Pennsylvania's exhibition, Benjamin Franklin Winston Churchill (1951); Library Company's exhibition, Quater of a Millennium (1981).
Creator: Cooper, Peter, w.c. 1698-1725
Date: Ca. 1718
Location: OBJ 603

Title: Collection of Electrical Tubes and Leyden Jars
Description: Used in electrical experiments., See Library Company Minutes vol. 1, May 1, 1738-Oct. 11, 1742, p. 74, 76, 83, 86, 94, 125-126, for discussion about the air-pump and glass implements., Exhibited in the University of Pennsylvania Library’s exhibition, Benjamin Franklin Winston Churchill (1951).
Date: Ca. 1730s-1740s
Location: OBJ 606

Title: Seal of the Library Company of Philadelphia
Description: The seal is a thick disc of brass. The surface is deeply engraved with the Library Company’s emblem, which Franklin designed. Its motto, composed by Franklin, reads “Communiter Bona profundere Dêum est,” which translates as “To pour forth benefits for the common good is divine.” On the reverse of the disc is cast a cylindrical stub, perforated with a hole to permit the metal to be fastened to a handle., Made for the Library Company, ca. 1731-1733., Exhibited in, Benjamin Franklin: In Search of a Better World (2005-2007).
Creator: Syng, Philip, 1703-1789
Date: Ca. 1731-1733
Location: OBJ 874

Title: Tall Case Clock
Description: Engraved “Christopher Souers” on the 10 5/8 inch diameter chapter ring., An aperture in the dial just below figure XII shows the stages of the moon. Above figure VI is an aperture through which may be seen the date of the month., Bequest of Charles G. Sower, 1904., Exhibited at the Philadelphia Antiques Show, It’s About Time (2000).
Creator: Sower, Christopher, 1695-1758
Date: ca. 1735
Location: OBJ 002

Title: Air Pump Case
Description: John Penn sent the Library Company an air pump in 1738, and this case was built to house it. It is the earliest surviving piece of American architectural furniture in the Palladian style., Ordered by Benjamin Franklin and Hugh Roberts about May 15, 1738 to house the air pump given by John Penn. Delivered in 1739 to the home of William Parsons., Exhibited in: Library Company's exhibition, Quarter of a Millennium (1981).
Creator: Harrison, John, II, d. 1760, builder
Date: May 1738- September 1739
Location: OBJ 283

Title: Library Tables
Description: Two library tables with pine tops covered with red leather. Baluster turned legs joined by rectangular stretchers, which are molded on top. Ball feet. Drawer in apron has decorative brass pulls and key plate. One table lacks key plate. Original covering was likely green baize., Purchased by the Library Company, ca. 1740.
Date: ca. 1740
Location: OBJ 016

Title: Electrical Machine
Description: The Electrical Machine is a static energy generator that works by rubbing the leather pad against the spinning glass globe to produce a static electrical charge in the globe. Franklin owned this apparatus and used it in his experiments and demonstations., LCP Minutes vol. 3, June 12, 1792, p. 312: Benjamin Franklin Bache presented to the Company the Machine, which Doctor Franklin first used to make Experiments in Electricity., Gift of Benjamin Franklin Bache, 1792., Exhibited in: University of Pennsylvania's exhibition, Benjamin Franklin Winston Churchill (1951); Benjamin Franklin: In Search of a Better World (2005-2007).
Date: Ca. 1742-1747
Location: OBJ 609

Title: Magnifying Mirror
Description: LCP Minutes vol. 1, May 9, 1743, p. 133: "B. Franklin acquainted the Member Met, that he had lately received from London a Glass Concave of 12 Inches Diameter for Magnifying and burning, which he would present to the Library." Vol. 1, June 13, 1743, p. 133: "The Secretary informed that he has on the 21st of Last Month taken to the Library the Concave Mirror given by Mr. Franklin.", Gift of Benjamin Franklin, 1743.
Date: Before 1743
Location: OBJ 605

Title: Suggestion Box
Description: A suggestion box with the face of a lion depicted and the words, "Gentlemen are Requested to deposit in the Lion's Mouth the titles of such Books as they may wish to have Imported" painted underneath., Made for the Library Company., Exhibited in, Benjamin Franklin: In Search of a Better World (2005-2007).
Date: Ca. 1750
Location: OBJ 650

Title: Logan Table
Description: Secondary woods with walnut top., Inscription on brass plaque reads, "This table formerly used by the Honourable James Logan an part of the furniture of his Library at Stenton was presented to the Loganian Library by his descendant in the fifth generation, Albanus C. Logan, MDCCLXX." Marlbourough style legs were not used until about 1755, which makes the claim of it belonging to James Logan doubtful. It may be one of several walnut tables mentioned in the inventory made at Stenton after William Logan's death in 1772., Gift of Albanus C. Logan II, 1870.
Date: after 1755
Location: OBJ 018

Title: Peace Medal (From the Friendly Association for Regaining and Preserving Peace with the Indians)
Description: Presentation medal with the bust of King George II on the obverse and, on the reverse, a Quaker man holding a peace pipe at a council fire with a Native American man. Duffield, a clockmaker, engraved the die; the silversmith Richardson struck it. It was the first peace medal made in America. Benjamin Franklin and members of the Friendly Association would distribute these medals to Native Americans as tokens of goodwill., Exhibited in: Benjamin Franklin: In Search of a Better World (2005-2007); Library Company's exhibition, Quarter of a Millennium (1981).
Creator: Duffield, Edward, 1730-1803, engraver
Date: 1757
Location: OBJ 873

Title: Meschianza Mirror
Description: This richly decorated frame has carved and gilded moldings with pendants of leaves, blossoms, and fruit. Lettered around the frame in gilt reads, “Mischianza-1778. / This mirror was in the ballroom of the Wharton House, Philadelphia at the above date & on the occasion of above fête./ General Meredith Read’s André relics.” The Meschianza ended with a ball, which took place in an elaborate canvas tent. The interior of the tent was painted and decorated with mirrors (including this one) and chandeliers, many of them borrowed from neighboring mansions., Gift of Mrs. John Meredith Read, 1900., Exhibited in the Philadelphia Museum of Art's exhibition, Art in Revolutionary Philadelphia (2010-2011).
Date: Ca. 1760
Location: OBJ 602

Title: Jacob Duché's Mansion (3rd & Pine Streets)
Description: The painting is not signed or dated., The figure in the foreground supposedly is Benjamin Franklin flying a kite during an electrical storm., Exhibited in Haverford College's exhibition, The Pennsylvania Landscape: Colonial to Contemporary (2007).
Date: Ca. 1760
Location: OBJ 303

Title: Tall Case Clock
Description: A Queen Anne clock with a brass arched dial and eight-day works., Engraved “Edwd Duffield/Philadelphia” in the boss above the chapter ring., Gift of Dr. Richard Alan Mones, 2003.
Creator: Duffield, Edward, 1730-1803
Date: Ca. 1760
Location: OBJ 865

Title: Captains Windsor Chair
Description: In 1980, Charles Santore examined the chair and thought that it was made by a Carpenter Hall Chairmaster in Philadelphia., Gift of Glorvina Fort, Dec. 20, 1876.
Date: ca. 1765-1780
Location: OBJ 015

Title: Coins from the Cornerstone
Description: Framed collection of medals and coins. Inscribed plate on the frame: “These coins and medals were deposited in the Cornerstone of the Old Philadelphia Library on Fifth St., 1789 and were removed on the demolition of the building in 1888.” Within the frame are the following: 1.) British Half Penny 1773 2.) Connecticut Cent 3.) New Jersey Cent 1787 4.) Bronze Medal of Washington N.D. 5.) Franklin Plaque N.D. 6.) Medal Commemorating the Peace of 1783 7.) Nova Constellatio Cent 1785. The first U.S. coin 8.) Massachusetts Cent 1788, LCP Minutes vol. 3. Sept. 3, 1789, p. 179-180, “The following medals were deposited in the Stone-- A Pewter Coin 2 inches diameter, a figure [illegible] with a Helmet – Right hand a Spear – left hand a Knot, or Cord, from where suspends 4 Shields, being the Arms of 4 Crowns vizt. 1st England –On the right 2d three fleur de Lis/France/below on the right 3d a Lion rampant with a Sword in the right Paw, grasping a Bundle of Arrows in the other – Fourth—a Shield with a Lion rampant at two opposite corners of the Shield, the other two are confused. At the bottom is a detached Shield, as if lying on the ground, unconnected with the other four – The Figure appears to be a large head covering the whole Field—Round the inner Edge is Communi consenu-1789 stamped on this side by Rue – On the other side is a handsome Figure in Robes, sprinkled with Fleur de Lis, sitting in an armed Chair, resting on a raised Step, sprinkled also with Fleur de Lis- The left hand painting to a Pillar, with a Cap of Liberty on it – A female Figure in light Robes is hanging up a Shield on the Pillar having 13 Stripes – Round the inner Edge the Motto Libertas American, 1783. 1789 Stamped – A Copper Inch Coin. A Star radiating with thirteen small stars between the points of the Rays – The Motto Nova Constellatio – On the other Side a circular Wreath with the Letters U.S. – The Motto Libertas et Justitia 1785--1789 Stamped. – A Copper large Inch Coin, a Shield with thirteen Stripes – The Motto e pluribus unum – On the reverse a Plough with a Nags head over it –The Motto Nova Caesaria 1787 – 1789 Stamped –, A George the third half penny 1773. Stamped 1789 – Inch Copper Coin—on one side a Spread Eagle with Massachusett on the inner civil Date 1788 – on the reverse an Indian with a Bow in his Right, and an Arrow in his left hand Motto Commonwealth –Stamped 1789 -- Inch Copper Coin – a Casar’s (sic) head on one side with Vermont: Auctoritas on the inner Circle—On the reverse a Figure like Brittannia date 1785. Motto Inde:e4 Liber: Stamped 1789 – 1 3/4 inch a Medal – Roman head of Genl Washington—round the inner Edge G. Washington General of the Continental Army in America – On the Reverse a Trophy – Cannon, mortar, Trumpet & Rays shooting out all round Washin:reunit par un rare assemblage les talens du Guerrier, les Vertus du Sage.”
Date: Ca. 1773-1788
Location: OBJ 054

Title: William Penn medal
Description: Obverse: Profile of William Penn with Legend that reads, “William Penn. B. 1644 D. 1718. L.P.” (Lewis Pingo). Reverse: Penn shaking hands with a Native American who has a bow in his left hand. Legend reads, “By Deeds of Peace. Pennsylvania Settled 1681.” John Fothergill (1712-1780) was a Quaker and a friend of Peter Collinson and John Bartram. Collinson introduced Fothergill to Benjamin Franklin. When Franklin became ill after his arrival in London in 1757, he became Fothergill’s patient. They remained close friends. William Logan (1718-1776) was the son of James Logan., LCP Minutes, Vol. 2, p. 121: At a meeting of the Directors held September 12th 1775. Mr. William Logan having in the Name and by the Direction of Doctor Fothergill presented the Library with a silver Medal representing on the Face a striking Likeness of William Penn the worthy Founder of this Province Legend “William Penn. B 1644. D. 1718” and on the Reverse William Penn shaking hands with an Indian Legend “By Deeds of Peace Pennsylvania settled 1681.” The Board request Mr. Logan will be pleased to communicate their Thanks to the Doctor for his truly valuable present—Ordered that the Secretary furnish Mr. Logan with a Copy of the aforegoing Minute.”, Gift of John Fothergill, 1775.
Creator: Pingo, Lewis, 1743-1830
Date: 1775
Location: OBJ 903

Title: Dickinson's Reading and Writing Desk
Description: Four-sided top capable of being raised or lowered on its helical center pole ; cabriole with acanthus; ball and claw feet., Inscription on metal plaque reads, "This desk once the property of the Honorable John Dickinson Author of the "Farmer's Letters" &c. was presented to the Loganian Library by Albanus C. Logan II." Albanus C. Logan was John Dickinson's great grandson, so it is probable that the desk remained in the family before being given to the Library Company., Gift of Albanus C. Logan II, 1870., Exhibited in the Library Company's exhibition, Quarter of a Millennium (1981).
Date: ca. 1775-1790
Location: OBJ 006

Title: Medallion of Benjamin Franklin
Description: Medallion by Nini after a drawing by Thomas Walpole (1755-1840). Bas-relief profile portrait of Franklin facing to the left wearing a fur cap. Inscription around the circumference, “B. Franklin. Americain.” Stamped on the truncation under the shoulder, “Nini / F 1777” and shield bearing a lightning rod and thunderbolt, with a crown as its crest; below the truncation, “1777.”, Gift of Michael Robinson, 2014.
Creator: Nini, Jean-Baptiste, 1717-1786
Date: 1777
Location: OBJ 896

Title: A Verse Written to a German Air
Description: Removed from its frame in 2007., Verse written to German air by Andre at the request of Miss Rebecca Redman in Philadelphia. MS notes on verso: Autograph of Major Andre's German Air - Words compos'd by Major Andre at the request of Miss Becky Redman Jan 2, 1777 afterwards Miss E. Lawrence, and presented by her daughter Miss E. Lawrence to Henry Penington. Autograph of Major Andre written for Miss Rebecca Redman at Philadelphia in the year 1778 and presented by her daughter Miss Eliza Lawrence to her cousin Henry Penington in the year 1841. Return'd to me after the Death of Mr. H. Penington and I now give them to Foxhall A. Parker U.S. Navy Eliza Lawrence, Aug. 22d 1862. Also a newspaper clipping from the North American, Jan. 28, 1842 with printed version of the poem and notes the 3 profiles that accompany it: Andre, Capt. Batwell, and "Sir John Wrotesb who was one of the managers of the celebrated entertainment...[Meschianza]" Also notes that Miss Redman was one of the famous belles of the Meschianza., Gift of Mrs. John Meredith Read, 1900., LCP Annual Report, 1900: "In concluding this brief review of the year’s gifts, it remains to mention that which Philadelphians will probably considered the most valuable: it is the André Collection, belonging to the late Gen. John Meredith Read, at one time Minister of the United States to Athens, presented by his family to the Library Company. It comprises a large mirror which formed part of the decoration of the Wharton House at the time of the Mischianza; profiles cut by Major André for Miss Rebecca Redman, in 1778, of Capt. Lullum Batwell, of the 46th Regiment of Foot, and of himself; a ticket for the Mischianza, May 18th, 1778, with invitation written on the back and signed by Sir Henry Calder; profile of Major Edward Stanley, of the 17th Light Dragoons, afterwards the twelfth Earl of Derby, and the following verses written to a German air by Major André at the request of Miss Redman, January 2d, 1777:, Return enraptur’d Hours, When Delia’s heart was mine; When she, with Wreaths of Flowers, My Temples wou’d entwine. When jealousy nor care Corroded in my breast, But visions, light as air, Presided o’er my rest-- Now nightly round my bed, No airy visions play; No flowrets crown my head, Each vernal holiday-- For far from those sad plains, My lovely Delia flies, And rack’d with jealous pains, Her wretched lover dies.
Creator: André, John, 1751-1780
Date: 1778
Location: OBJ 060

Title: Silhouette of Major Edward Stanly
Description: Black silk with cut paper on top., Removed from its frame in 2007., Note on top recto: Profile taken by Major Andre of the British Army; bottom: Major Stanly of the 17th Light dragoons 1778, cut by Major Andre. MS on verso: return'd to me after the Death of Mr. H. Pennington and I now give it to Foxhall A. Parker, U. S. Navy Eliza Lawrence, Aug. 22, 1862. The profile of Major Stanly of the 17th Regiment of Light Dragoons since Earl of Derby. Done by Major Andre while the British Army was in Philadelphia, and presented by him to Miss Rebecca Redman (afterwards Mrs. E. Lawrence)., LCP Annual Report, 1900: "In concluding this brief review of the year’s gifts, it remains to mention that which Philadelphians will probably considered the most valuable: it is the André Collection, belonging to the late Gen. John Meredith Read, at one time Minister of the United States to Athens, presented by his family to the Library Company. It comprises a large mirror (68 x 29 x 2") which formed part of the decoration of the Wharton House at the time of the Mischianza; profiles cut by Major André for Miss Rebecca Redman, in 1778, of Capt. Lullum Batwell, of the 46th Regiment of Foot, and of himself; a ticket for the Mischianza, May 18th, 1778, with invitation written on the back and signed by Sir Henry Calder; profile of Major Edward Stanley, of the 17th Light Dragoons, afterwards the twelfth Earl of Derby, and the following verses written to a German air by Major André at the request of Miss Redman, January 2d, 1777.", Gift of Mrs. John Meredith Read, 1900.
Creator: André, John, 1751-1780
Date: 1778
Location: OBJ 061

Title: Silhouettes of Lullum Batwell and John André
Description: Black silk with cut paper on top., Removed from its frame in 2007., Label on verso: Profiles of Captain Batwell and Major Andre cut by Major Andre for Miss Rebecca Redman Lawrence in the year 1778, and presented by her daughter Miss Eliza Lawrence to her cousin Henry Penington in the year 1841. After the death of Mr. Henry Penington these profiles were returned to me, I now give them to Commander Foxhall A. Parker. Eliza Lawrence, Aug. 22, 1862., Gift of Mrs. John Meredith Read, 1900., LCP Annual Report, 1900: "In concluding this brief review of the year’s gifts, it remains to mention that which Philadelphians will probably considered the most valuable: it is the André Collection, belonging to the late Gen. John Meredith Read, at one time Minister of the United States to Athens, presented by his family to the Library Company. It comprises a large mirror (68 x 29 x 2") which formed part of the decoration of the Wharton House at the time of the Mischianza; profiles cut by Major André for Miss Rebecca Redman, in 1778, of Capt. Lullum Batwell, of the 46th Regiment of Foot, and of himself; a ticket for the Mischianza, May 18th, 1778, with invitation written on the back and signed by Sir Henry Calder; profile of Major Edward Stanley, of the 17th Light Dragoons, afterwards the twelfth Earl of Derby, and the following verses written to a German air by Major André at the request of Miss Redman, January 2d, 1777."
Creator: André, John, 1751-1780
Date: 1778
Location: OBJ 062

Title: Benjamin Franklin
Description: In the late spring of 1777, Caffieri completed a terra cotta bust of Franklin from life. It was said to be the best likeness of Franklin. Thereafter, the sculptor made a number of casts., LCP Minutes vol. 4, Jan. 17, 1805, p. 186: "A bust of Dr. Benjamin Franklin was presented to the Company by Walter Franklin, Esquire.", Gift of Walter Franklin, 1805., Exhibited in the Library Company's exhibitions, Quarter of a Millennium (1981) and Benjamin Franklin: Writer and Printer (2006)., Photograph courtesy of Linda Lennon Objects Conservation.
Creator: Caffieri, Jean-Jacques, 1725-1792
Date: Ca. 1779-1784
Location: OBJ 526

Title: Snuffbox with Portrait of Benjamin Franklin
Description: Tortoiseshell snuffbox with a portrait of Benjamin Franklin on the lid. Miniature portrait is framed with a simple ovolo moulding of gold. It was commissioned by Franklin as a gift to Georgiana Shipley (1756-1806), the daughter of Jonathan Shipley, bishop of St. Asaph. Georgiana Shipley wrote to Franklin on May 1st requesting a portrait miniature, “Numberless are the prints & medals we have seen of you, but none that I quite approve, should you have a good picture painted at Paris, a miniature copied from it, would make me the happiest of beings, & next to that, a lock of your own dear grey hair would give me the greatest pleasure…” Franklin sent the snuffbox and lock of hair to which Shipley replied on Feb. 3, 1780, “How shall I sufficiently express my raptures on recieving (sic) your dear delightfull & most valuable present. The pleasure I felt was encreased if possible at the sight of the beloved little lock of Hair, I kissed both that & the picture 1000 times: the miniature is admirably painted, the Artist (whose name I wish to learn) appears inferior to none we have in England: as for the resemblance, it is my very own dear Doctor Franklin himself…”, Gift of Stuart Karu, 2009., Exhibited in: University of Pennsylvania's exhibition, The Intellectual World of Benjamin Franklin (1990); Benjamin Franklin: In Search of a Better World (2005-2007); Patriots and Presidents: Philadelphia Portrait Miniatures, 1760-1860 (April 2009).
Creator: Dumont, François, 1751-1831
Date: 1779
Location: OBJ 879

Title: Iron Mortar Shell
Description: This mortar was sent by Isaac J. Wister to the Library Company in 1864. His accompanying letter [7431.F.47] reads: Head Quarters, U. S. Army Forces, Yorktown Va., February 16, 1864. To the President and Managers of the Library Company of Philadelphia. Gentlemen, I have the honor to present to the Library Company, one thirteen inch mortar shell, just examined by a fatigue party from the terreplein of old Fort Yorktown - which from its position must have been fired from the right batteries of Gen'l Washington's second parallel during the siege by the Allies in October, 1781. The fuze has entirely decayed, but the charge remains. It has been effectively drowned and is believed to be inexplosive.", Gift of Isaac J. Wistar, 1864.
Date: Ca. 1780
Location: OBJ 528

Title: De Fleury at Stony Point Medal
Description: Reads, "Virtutis Et Audaclae Monum. Et Praemium" and "D. De Fleury Equitt Gallo Primo Super Muros Resp. Americ D.D." Translation: "A memorial and reward for bravery and boldness—The American Republic presented this award to M. de Fleury, a French officer, who as the first scaled the walls." Mars is depicted on the ruin of the fort treading on the British flag with his sword raised. Reverse reads, "Aggeres Paludes Hostes Victi” “STONY PT EXPUGN xv Jul MDCCLXXIX." Translation: "Fortifications, marshes, and the enemy overcome—Stony Point taken by assault, July 15th, 1779." Depicts the fort of Stony Point and the enemy’s vessels on the river below it., On July 26, 1779, Congress decided to reward Lieutenant Colonel Fleury for bravery in the attack of the fort at Stony Point. Benjamin Franklin, in Paris, employed Benjamin Duvivier, Chief Engraver at the Paris Mint, to create the medal. This medal is the first ever struck by a Resolution of Congress., Gift of Benjamin Franklin., Exhibited in, Benjamin Franklin: In Search of a Better World (2005-2007).
Creator: Duvivier, Benjamin, 1730-1819, engraver
Date: 1780
Location: OBJ 878

Title: Lock of George Washington's Hair
Description: Lock of white hair on a black background. Oval glass covered opening. The hair was taken by Martin Pierie, Washington's barber, in 1781., Note pasted to back reads: "Description of frame: 1. Oval from Washington's mansion - Mt. Vernon; 2. Part of a chestnut tree planted by Washington which is the molding; 3. Beed around frame from Independence Hall, Philadelphia; 4. The ring from Carpenter's Hall; 5. Upper right star Tree Lafayette planted; 6. Upper left star, Gen'l Anthony Wayne house; 7. Lower right star, Frigate Constitution; 8. Lower left star, Frigate Alliance; 9. Back from pew Washington worshipped in at Christ Church. I believe the above to be correct and true. Roxborough Feb. 18th, 1860 Joseph Crout.", Library Company Minutes vol. 5, Aug. 6, 1829, p. 265: "A lock of General Washington's hair taken by Martin Pierie in 1781, was presented by John Pierie. The Secretary was directed to return the thanks of the board to the donor, & the Librarian requested to have it framed under glass and placed in the cabinet.", Gift of John Pierie, August 6, 1829.
Date: 1781
Location: OBJ 150

Title: Libertas Americana
Description: Reads, "Libertas Americana" and "4 Juil 1776." Translation: "American Liberty—4th of July, 1776." Depicts Liberty with her cap and pole. Reverse reads, "Non Sine Diis animosus infans" "17 19 Oct. 1777-1781." Translation: "The fearless child was not without the help of gods." (Verse from the Odes of Horace; Book III, Ode IV, 20.) Depicts Minerva, with a spear and shield, protecting an infant Hercules from a lion. Hercules is strangling two serpents., Gift of Benjamin Franklin., Exhibited in, Benjamin Franklin: In Search of a Better World (2005-2007).
Creator: Dupré, Augustin, 1748-1833, engraver
Date: 1782, struck in 1783
Location: OBJ 877

Title: Mask of George Washington
Description: In 1785, Houdon accompanied Benjamin Franklin to visit Washington at his Mount Vernon home. Houdon spent two weeks at Mount Vernon, sketching, measuring, and observing the General as well as creating this plaster life mask. He returned to Paris and used this mask to aid him in sculpting a marble, life-sized sculpture of Washington which still resides in the Richmond Capitol. There are four known copies of the mask in existence.
Creator: Houdon, Jean-Antoine, 1741-1828
Date: Ca. 1785-1792?
Location: OBJ 542

Title: Benjamin Franklin portrait miniature pendant
Description: Portrait of Benjamin Franklin set into a gold frame with ribbon surmount, the foliate pierced and enameled border set with enameled urns and basket decorated with seed pearls, the reverse glazed to reveal the counter-enamel. The portrait is one of five extant versions and the jeweled setting is most likely contemporary and commissioned so that the image could be worn as a pendant. Weyler painted this portrait as a part of a series of miniatures he called “Panthéon Iconographique,” which included famous men he wanted to preserve for posterity in enamel. Franklin was the most popular of the series’ subjects. The original portrait for which the enamel was based on has not been traced, but it is believed to be a pastel taken from life., See accession file for more information about provenance., Purchase of the Library Company, 2013.
Creator: Weyler, Jean Baptiste, 1747-1791
Date: ca. 1785
Location: OBJ 895

Title: Tobacco Banner
Description: A silk banner that was carried by Thomas Leiper for the tobacconists in the Grand Federal Procession in honor of the ratification of the Constitution in Philadelphia on July 4, 1788., Banner has a painted design of a tobacco plant, bottle and bladder of snuff, thirteen stars, and a tobacco barrel beneath a pink ribbon which reads, "Success to the Tobacco Plant" and the date, "1788.", See Francis Hopkinson's Account for a detailed decription of the Tobacconists in the Procession., On deposit from the Friends of the Thomas Leiper House.
Date: 1788
Location: OBJ on deposit

Title: Urn
Description: Part of balastrade around the roof the Library Company's 5th Street building, 1789-1888.
Date: Ca. 1789
Location: OBJ 529

Title: Cornerstone of Library Company Building at Fifth and Chestnut Streets
Description: Laid on August 31, 1789., The cornerstone was formerly embedded in the base of the statue of Benjamin Franklin (OBJ 596). At the time the cornerstone was laid, a collection of coins and medals was placed inside (OBJ 054)., Library Company Minutes vol. 3, September 3. 1789, p. 178: "The building Committee reported, That the first stone of the edifice was laid on the thirty =first of August last;- that upon the suggestion of Dr. Benjamin Franklin a large stone was prepared and laid at the south=west cornor (sic) of the building with the following Inscription, composed by the Doctor, except so far as relates to himself, which the committee have taken the liberty of adding to it:-`Be it remembered,/In honor of the Philadelphia Youth,/then chiefly Artificers/ That in MDCCXXXI,/They cheerfully,/At the Instance of Benjamin Franklin,/one of their Number,/Instituted the Philadelphia Library;/which, tho' small at first,/Is become highly valuable and extensively useful,/And which the Walls of this Edifice/Are now destined to contain and preserve;/The first stone of whose Foundation,/was here placed/The thirty-first day of August,/Anno Domini MDCCLXXXIX,/ Benjamin Gibbs, Josiah Hewes, John Kaighn, Mordecai Lewis, Thomas Morris, Thomas Parke, Joseph Paschall, Benjamin Poultney, Richard Wells, Richard Wistar, then being Directors-, Samuel Coats, Treasurer, William Rawle, Secretary, Zachariah Poulson, Junr., Librarian'". Vol. 3, September 3, 1789, p. 179-180 describes the coins and medals placed inside the cornerstone. Vol. 8, May 7, 1880, p. 332: "On motion, the matter of the removal of the cornerstone of the building at 5 & Library Sts was referred to Mr. Biddle as a Committee with power to act".
Creator: Thornton, William, 1759-1828, designer
Date: 1789
Location: OBJ 007

Title: Magnetic Dispensary
Description: This painting satirically illustrates animal magnetism or magnetic therapy. On the wall are three pictures: Loutherbourg, an artist turned quack, Yeldell (with donkey ears) a follower of Mesmer, and probably de Mainaudiac, a doctor who advertised magnetic cures and animal magnetism. Also in the painting are packets of "Mag Snuff" and an open book that reads, "Magnetic Effluvia" and "List of Cures" with a dog urinating on it., Labels on the back read “1831 From James S. Earle & Sons, Earle’s Galleries, No. 816 Chestnut Street Philadelphia” and “Library Company of Philadelphia. 3775.”, Engraving in The Attic Miscellany. London: Bentley, 1791 (Vol. I, pictured on p. 121). Engraving is signed: Drawn by Collings, etched by Barlow, published by Bentley & Co., 1790.
Creator: Collings, Samuel, active 1784-1789, died 1795
Date: 1790
Location: OBJ 116

Title: Benjamin Franklin
Description: Larger-than-life statue of Franklin originally placed in a niche over the entrance to Library Hall at Fifth Street in 1792., Universal Asylum and Columbian Magazine, April 11, 1792, p. 284: "The statue of Dr. Franklin was last Saturday fixed in its niche over the front door of the new library in fifth-street----Francois Lazzarini is the sculptor, and Carrara the name of the place where it was executed. If the intrinsic merit of this master-piece of art did not speak its value, the name of the artist, where he is known, would evince it. Here perhaps price may give the best idea of its worth. We have heard that it cost above 500 guineas.----The statue of Dr. Franklin is a full length figure, erect, clad with a Roman toga--the position easy and graceful--in the right hand is a scepter reversed, the elbow resting on books placed on a pedestal--the left hand, a little extended, holds a scroll. This elegant piece of sculpture is executed in the finest white marble, and is the donation of William Bingham esq. of this city, to the library-company.", Several newspapers reported the arrival of the statue. See Object file for the list., Gift of William Bingham, 1792., LCP Minutes vol. 3, various entries from Aug. 6, 1789-May 3, 1792. See Object file for transcriptions.
Creator: Lazzarini, Francesco, d. ca. 1808
Date: Ca. 1791
Location: OBJ 596

Title: Minerva as Patroness of American Liberty
Description: Gift of the Continental Congress, ca. 1800., Exhibited in the Library Company and Historical Society of Pennsylvania's exhibition, Women 1500-1900 (1974). Exhibited in the Library Company's exhibition, Quarter of a Millennium (1981).
Creator: Ceracchi, Giuseppe, 1751-1802
Date: Ca. 1791-1792
Location: OBJ 037

Title: Liberty Displaying the Arts and Sciences, or The Genius of America Encouraging the Emancipation of the Blacks
Description: The painting is signed "S. Jennings Pinxt.1792" on a scroll in the lower right corner. The frame is original, made by the Philadelphia carver and gilder James Reynolds (c. 1736-1794)., LCP Minutes vol. 3, April 1, 1790, p. 195-197: "Extract of a Letter from Samuel Jennings, dated London January 12th, 1790. `My Dear Father. Having lately received Information that an Elegant Building is now erecting for the Philadelphia Library, an Idea immediately struck me, that if it would not be thought presumptuous, I should esteem myself very happy to have the honor of presenting a Painting to the Company that would be applicable to so noble, and useful an Institution, and which if agreeable to the Gentlemen who have the Directions of it, shall use my utmost exertion & abilities to make it acceptable; the great affection I retain for my native Country, will always be an inducement to me to contribute my mite towards the Encouragement of Arts and Sciences, hoping in due time, they will arrive to as great perfection as they are at present, in the place I now reside--- As I do not know who the Gentlemen are that have the direction of the Library, I request you will be so obliging as to communicate to them the Information I have given you, and if they should be pleased to approve of it, as I hope they will, it will be necessary for me to be acquainted with the length, breadth and height of the Room, together with the Situation they would wish to place in it, and if over the Fire-place, the distance from the Mantle-piece to the Ceiling-- You will perhaps think me too particular, but these are things essentially necessary--/As soon as I receive an answer from you with their approbation, which I hope will be by the first Packet from New York, or any other immediate opportunity, I shall put the piece into Execution., In regard to the subject, there are three, which I think would be applicable to the Institution vizt. Cleo - Goddess of History, and Heroic Poetry. Calliope - Goddess of Harmony, Rhetoric, & Heroic Poetry - Minerva- Goddess of Wisdom & all the Arts, The Presidentess of Learning, which seems to comprehend everything that can be desired.The dress of Minerva is grand, and would make a better picture than either of the others. But if my other Subject should be their choice, I shall with plesure, comply with it-' This handsome Compliment from one of our Fellow Citizens now in London, is gratefully received, and Mordecai Lewis, John Kaighn, Doctor Parke, Thomas Morris and Richard Wells, are appointed a Committee to prepare a Letter to go by the next Packet expressive of the high Sense which the Board entertain of the genteel proposal, and that the Committee take the subject of the picture into consideration, and transmit their opinion thereon-.", Vol. 3, May 6, 1790, p. 206-207: "The Committee appointed by the last board reported that they had transmitted a letter to Samuel Jennings in answer to his polite and liberal offer of a painting for this Institution which was read and ordered to be entered on the minutes--- `Phila. April 3, 1790, Esteemed Friend- The Directors of the Library Company of Philadelphia having been furnished with an extract of thy letter respecting a Piece of Painting intended for the Library they have instructed us to transmit their grateful acknowledgments for so genteel a notice of their Institution--To recieve such a proof of Attachment from one of their Fellow-Citizens, at so great a distance, must be truly pleasing to every Member of the Company, to whom the Directors will have an opportunity of communicating it, at their annual Election next month-/ The Board have considered the three Subjects submitted to their Choice, and readily agree in giving a preference to that of Minerva; but as a more general latitude has been so politely granted, they take the liberty of suggesting an Idea of Substituting the figure of Liberty/with her Cap and proper Insignia/displaying the arts by some of the most striking Symbols of Painting, Architecture, Mechanics, Astronomy etc, whilst She appears in the attitude of placing on the top of a Pedestal, a pile of books, lettered with, Agriculture, Commerce, Philosophy, & Catalogue of Philadelphia Library., A broken chain under her feet, and in the distant background a Groupe of Negroes sitting on the Earth, or in some attitude expressive of Ease & Joy -/ This is handed merely as a Sketch of what struck the Directors, but they have so much diffidence on Subjects of this nature, that they wish to submit the whole to thy own Judgment-/ We are on behalf of the Directors very respectfully Thy Friends. Signed by Richard Wells, Thomas Morris, Thomas Parke, John Kaighn'., Gift of Samuel Jennings, 1792., Exhibited in: Art Institute of Chicago's exhibition, From Colony to Nation (1949); Corcoran Gallery of Art's exhibition, American Processional (1950); Library Company and Historical Society of Pennsylvania's exhibtion, Negro History, 1553-1903 (1969); The National Portrait Gallery's exhibition, The Black Presence in the Era of the American Revolution, 1770-1800 (1973); Library Company and Historical Society of Pennsylvania's exhibtion, Women 1500-1900 (1974); Library Company's exhibition, Quarter of a Millennium (1981); Corcoran Gallery of Art's exhibition, Facing History, The Black Image in American Art, 1710-1940 (1990).
Creator: Jennings, Samuel, active 1789-1834
Date: 1792
Location: OBJ 250

Title: Stone Marker for the Statue of Benjamin Franklin
Description: Marker for the staute of Franklin (OBJ 596). Inscription: "This statue of Dr. Benjamin Franklin was presented by William Bingham, Esqr. MDCCXCII.", LCP Minutes vol. 3, April 11, 1792, p. 303: "...The following Inscription was agreed to, and the building Committee appointed to have it engraved on the Stone Tablet on which the Statue is placed:- `This Statue of/ Dr. Benjamin Franklin/ Was presented by/ William Bingham, Esqr./ MDCCXCII.'" Vol. 3, May 3, 1792, p. 306: "Orders were drawn on the Treasurer, as follows:-....In favor of Richard North for cutting and painting the letters under the Statue of Dr. Franklin, two Pounds, six shillings and eight pence.", Purchased by the Library Company, 1792.
Creator: North, Robert
Date: 1792
Location: OBJ 597

Title: Windsor Chairs
Description: Made of various woods: legs and stretchers are maple; arms are mahogany; arm supports are oak; seat is poplar; bow is white oak; spindles are hickory., Library Company set includes 11 chairs., Purchased by the Library Company from Joseph Henzey, Dec. 1792 for 11 pounds, five shillings., Exhibited in the Library Company's exhibition, Quarter of a Millennium (1981).
Creator: Henzey, Joseph, Sr., 1743-1796
Date: 1792
Location: OBJ 014

Title: Halfpenny Trade Token
Description: Gift of Jessica Linker, 2017., Obverse: "J. Lackington / [Bust of Lackington, facing front left] / 1794” Reverse: Central figure of a Fame blowing a trumpet surrounded by two-line inscription "Halfpenny of Lackington, Allen & Co." / "Cheapest booksellers in the world." "Edge lettered "Payable at the Temple of the Muses * / * / * " James Lackington opened his first bookstall in London in 1773 and issued his first catalog in 1779. The firm later was known as Lackington, Allan & Co. and occupied a large premises, "The Temple of the Muses," in Finsbury Square, London. According to his published "Confessions" (1804), he made the business wholly over to his cousin, George Lackington, in 1798. Tokens such as these were issued in many places in England between 1787 and 1800 when the government failed to mint enough copper coinage for the conduct of business.
Creator: Lackington, James, 1746-1815
Date: [1794]
Location: OBJ 909

Title: Halfpenny Trade Token
Description: Gift of Jessica Linker, 2017., Obverse: "J. Lackington / [Bust of Lackington, facing front left] / 1794” Reverse: Central figure of a Fame blowing a trumpet surrounded by two-line inscription "Halfpenny of Lackington, Allen & Co." / "Cheapest booksellers in the world." "Edge lettered "Payable at the Temple of the Muses * / * / * " James Lackington opened his first bookstall in London in 1773 and issued his first catalog in 1779. The firm later was known as Lackington, Allan & Co. and occupied a large premises, "The Temple of the Muses," in Finsbury Square, London. According to his published "Confessions" (1804), he made the business wholly over to his cousin, George Lackington, in 1798. Tokens such as these were issued in many places in England between 1787 and 1800 when the government failed to mint enough copper coinage for the conduct of business.
Creator: Lackington, James, 1746-1815
Date: [1795]
Location: OBJ 910

Title: Margaret Burke
Description: Margaret Burke was the sister of Mathew Carey. Not long after her portrait was taken, she followed her brother to the United States. She married a Baltimore sea captain named James Burke, who presently abandoned her and their children. She moved to Philadelphia and for a while worked as a school mistress and a milliner., Gift of Mrs. H. Lea (Mary) Hudson, 1994.
Creator: Shee, Martin Archer, 1769-1850
Date: Ca. 1796
Location: OBJ 857

Title: Reverend Samuel Preston
Description: This portrait is signed and dated, lower right, B. West, 1797. “Presented by Elizh West 1804” hand lettered on the frame, bottom center., Reverend Samuel Preston was an English cleric who never visited America, but nevertheless bequeathed to the Library Company his rich collection of 2,500 illustrated volumes on history, geography, and the arts. It is possible that West induced him to give his valuable collection to the Library Company., Gift of Elizabeth West (Mrs. Benjamin West), 1804., Exhibited in: Newark Museum's exhibition, An Exhibition of American Painting from 1700 to 1900 (1931); the Art Center in West Chester's exhibition, Yesterday in Chester County Art (1936); Pennsylvania Museum of Art's exhibition, Benjamin West, 1738-1820 (1938); Library Company's exhibition, Quarter of a Millennium (1981); Philadelphia Museum of Art's exhibition, Benjamin West in Pennsylvania Collections (1986); Library Company's exhibition, In Living Color: Collecting Color Plate Books (2007)., Library Company Minutes vol. 5, May 6, 1819, p. 57 :"Thomas Sully and John Vaughan, a Committee on behalf of the Academy of Fine Arts having requested the loan of West's picture of Preston to be exhibited in their Hall, it was agreed to, they engaging to return it uninjured at the end of two months."
Creator: West, Benjamin, 1738-1820
Date: 1797
Location: OBJ 156

Title: Library Company Fire Buckets
Description: Buckets were the first means of defense against a fire in the 18th century. Home owners and businesses purchased them from saddlers or bellow-makers and had their name painted on them (to distinguish them from the public or fire company buckets). They were kept hanging in a convenient location in the building at all times., Six leather buckets inscribed, Library Company of Philadelphia, with a ornamental scroll above and a sunburst below., LCP Minutes vol. 6., Feb. 7, 1797, p. 64: “The Librarian was instructed to purchase six good large leathern buckets, painted with the words “Library Company of Philadelphia,” to be kept in the Library-Hall.” Vol. 6, Apr. 6, 1797, p. 65 : “The Librarian produced an account, amounting to L7.17.6, for six fire buckets, procured by directions of the board, for which amount an order was drawn on the Treasurer in his favor.”, Purchased by the Library Company in 1797., Exhibited in, Benjamin Franklin: In Search of a Better World (2005-2007).
Date: Ca. 1797
Location: OBJ 516

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