American Antiquarian Society

American Antiquarian Society. Founded in 1812 by Isaiah Thomas, a prominent printer and patriot of the American Revolution, it is the oldest historical society in the United States with a national scope. Its mission is to collect, preserve, and make available for study the printed record of what is now the United States from the colonial period through 1876. Located in Worcester, Massachusetts, it serves as a preeminent research library for American history and culture before the twentieth century, attracting scholars from around the world.

History

The institution was established by Isaiah Thomas, who famously printed the first copy of the Declaration of Independence with the names of the signers. He was inspired by earlier learned societies like the American Philosophical Society and sought to create an organization dedicated to American antiquities. Its founding was supported by other notable figures, including William Bentley, a Salem diarist, and John Adams, the second President of the United States. Early activities involved collecting books, pamphlets, and newspapers, with Thomas donating his own substantial library. Throughout the 19th century, it grew under leaders like Christopher Columbus Baldwin and Samuel Foster Haven, expanding its collections during pivotal eras such as the American Civil War and the Industrial Revolution. It was incorporated by the Massachusetts General Court and has maintained its national focus, avoiding merger with state-focused entities like the Massachusetts Historical Society.

Collections

The holdings constitute one of the world's most comprehensive collections of early American printed materials. The cornerstone is an unparalleled accumulation of American newspapers published before 1877, including rare issues from the colonial era. It possesses extensive holdings of broadsides, ephemera, and periodicals, as well as a major collection of children's literature from the 18th and 19th centuries. The library's graphic arts collection includes significant works by early American engravers like Paul Revere and Nathaniel Hurd. Notable archival collections feature the papers of the *Worcester Spy* newspaper and materials related to the Shakers. Its collections document every aspect of American life, including the War of 1812, the abolitionist movement, and the development of Transcendentalism.

Research and publications

It operates primarily as a scholarly research center, offering fellowships supported by the National Endowment for the Humanities and private foundations like the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. The reading room is used by academics, graduate students, and independent researchers working on projects ranging from the history of the book to African American studies. Its publication program has produced essential reference works, including the *North American Imprints Program* catalog. The society also publishes the scholarly journal *American Antiquarian*, and has sponsored major collaborative projects such as the *History of the Book in America* series. Public outreach includes exhibitions and lectures often held in conjunction with institutions like the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Membership and governance

Membership is by election, with the body of members known as the Council. The council includes distinguished scholars, librarians, and collectors from institutions such as the Library of Congress, Yale University, and the New-York Historical Society. Governance is led by a president and a board of trustees, which has included notable figures like historian David McCullough. The director, a position held by individuals such as Clifford K. Shipton and current president Scott E. Casper, oversees daily operations and strategic initiatives. Members gather annually for a meeting that features addresses on topics in early American history and related fields.

Building and location

The main building, known as Antiquarian Hall, is a Neoclassical structure designed by architects Winslow, Bigelow & Wadsworth and completed in 1910 on Salisbury Street in Worcester. The building was expanded with a modern addition designed by the firm Finegold Alexander + Associates Inc in the early 2000s to provide improved climate-controlled storage and reading rooms. The campus includes the adjacent Goddard-Daniels House, a historic property used for administrative offices and events. Its location in Worcester, Massachusetts places it within a rich historical landscape that includes other cultural institutions like the Worcester Art Museum and Clark University.

Category:American Antiquarian Society Category:Historical societies in Massachusetts Category:Research libraries in the United States Category:Worcester, Massachusetts Category:Organizations established in 1812