The Huntington Library houses an extensive collection of historical documents and artifacts, including a notable array of materials related to James Madison, the fourth President of the United States. These documents provide invaluable insights into Madison’s political career, personal correspondences, and his significant role in shaping the early years of the American republic. This article offers a detailed overview of the various Madison-related materials available at the Huntington Library, highlighting their historical importance and accessibility.
Centennial Exposition of American Presidents
The Huntington Library’s Jay T. Last Collection features the “Centennial Exposition of American Presidents,” which includes materials dedicated to James Madison. This collection is part of a broader exhibition that honors the legacy of American presidents and their contributions to the nation’s history.
James Madison’s Correspondence with Alexander James Dallas (1815-1816)
One of the most significant collections at the Huntington Library is the correspondence between James Madison and Alexander James Dallas, covering the years 1815-1816. During this period, Dallas served as Madison’s Secretary of the Treasury, Acting Secretary of War, and Acting Secretary of State. The letters exchanged between Madison and Dallas cover a wide range of political and governmental concerns, reflecting the complexities of post-war America.
Key topics discussed in this collection include:
- Peacetime Military Organization: The correspondence delves into the establishment of a military structure suitable for peacetime, following the conclusion of the War of 1812.
- Economic and Financial Affairs: Discussions include the Second Bank of the United States and the broader financial policies that shaped the young nation’s economy.
- International Relations: The letters touch upon U.S. relations with major global powers such as Great Britain, France, Russia, and Algeria, offering a glimpse into the diplomatic challenges of the era.
- Astronomical Observatory: A lesser-known aspect of Madison’s interests, this topic highlights the early American interest in scientific advancements.
Additionally, the correspondence addresses the aftermath of the War of 1812, particularly concerning Native American relations in the Michigan territory, with notable letters from May 1815. For those interested in further exploration, the collection’s catalog record provides more detailed information and a link to the finding aid.
Call number: mssMD
L. Dennis Shapiro Collection
The L. Dennis Shapiro Collection contains three items related to James Madison. However, access to this collection is restricted and requires curatorial approval, along with extended retrieval and delivery times. Researchers interested in these items are encouraged to contact the Huntington Library for more information.
Call number: mssShapiro
Single Manuscript Items
The Huntington Library also holds a variety of single manuscript items related to James Madison, spanning the years 1787 to 1830. These documents primarily consist of Madison’s correspondence with politicians and statesmen, covering key topics such as government policies, fiscal matters, and foreign relations.
Some notable items include:
- Tripolitan War: An item related to Madison’s involvement in the Tripolitan War. Call number: mssHM 22918
- The Aaron Burr Conspiracy: A document discussing Madison’s perspective on the infamous Aaron Burr conspiracy. Call number: mssHM 25460
- University of Virginia and Madison Family Land Grant: Papers related to Madison’s involvement with the University of Virginia and his family’s land grant. Call number: mssHM 1855
Researchers can utilize the Summon Discovery tool, using subject terms such as “Madison, James, 1751-1836 – Correspondence” or “Madison, James, 1751-1836 — Autographs (manuscripts),” to locate records for these individual items.
Individual Items in Other Collections
In addition to the aforementioned collections, James Madison-related items can also be found in other archival collections at the Huntington Library, including:
- James K. Polk Papers: A note on the U.S. Congress dated May 14, 1790. Call number: mssPolk
- Hiram Barney Papers: A James Madison appointment to Aaron Hassert, dated May 22, 1812. Call number: mssHB
- Rufus King Papers: Several letters from Madison to Rufus King, dating from July 23, 1801, to February 25, 1802. Call number: mssRK
- William Eaton Papers: A collection of letters from Madison to William Eaton, covering the years 1794 to 1806, along with a letter to Richard Harrison in 1804. Call number: mssEA
- R.A. Brock Collection and Papers: Correspondence between Madison and other prominent figures, including a letter to Thomas Jefferson dated December 13, 1780, and a letter to the General Assembly of Virginia around March 1, 1817. Call number: mssBR Boxes 1-397
Accessing the Collections
The Huntington Library’s extensive holdings of James Madison materials offer a treasure trove of information for historians, researchers, and enthusiasts of early American history. These collections provide a window into Madison’s life and career, offering valuable insights into his contributions to the nation’s founding and governance.
For those interested in accessing these collections, it is recommended to contact the library in advance to confirm availability and any specific access requirements. The library’s staff can assist with navigating the collections and provide guidance on how to make the most of these historical resources.
Image Credit
The Centennial Exposition of American Presidents features images from the Jay T. Last Collection, with the image of James Madison credited to P.J. Hitchins and Company. This image, along with other artifacts in the collection, serves as a visual reminder of Madison’s enduring legacy in American history.
Image Credit: P.J. Hitchins and Comp., Centennial exposition of American presidents, priJLC_POL_002675, Jay T. Last Collection. Gift of Jay T. Last, 2005.
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