Historical Manuscripts Collection
Portrait and Notation of Abraham Lincoln
Handwritten Letter by Albert Einstein
Henry David Thoreau’s Manuscript Fragment
Balthasar Meisner’s Latin Manuscript
William L. Marcy’s Note with Intact Seal
Jessie Hunter’s Crosshatched Letter
Drew University’s Historical Manuscripts Collection is made up of manuscript material from more than 900 different individuals. The figures represented in the collection constitute quite a diverse group, including authors of popular fiction, theologians and other religious writers, political figures (including American presidents and British prime ministers), educators and academics, entertainers and performers, as well as scientists, merchants, and captains of industry. The earliest materials date from the early 16th century, with additions to the collection continuing through the end of the 20th century. The types of materials included are likewise numerous, with a particular strength in sermon manuscripts from 18th and 19th century Protestant ministers, as well as autographs, letters, government documents, and various types of drafts.