Meteorological observations, 1784-1805

Mss.B.R51d

Date: 1784-1805 | Size: 2 volume(s), 2 volumes, ca. 438 p.

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Abstract

The first volume contains notes of expenses and of observations while surveying the western boundary of Pennsylvania (1785). Mentions APS under date of Feb. 20, 1784. The second volume contains observations that were continued after Rittenhouse's death to Sept. 30, 1805.

Background note

David Rittenhouse was an instrument-maker, astronomer, and treasurer of Pennsylvania; he was elected to the American Philosophical Society in 1768.

Digital objects note

This collection contains digital materials that are available in the APS Digital Library. Links to these materials are provided with context in the inventory of this finding aid. A general listing of digital objects may also be found here.

Collection Information

Physical description

2 volumes, ca. 438 p.

Provenance

Presented by Mrs. Henry S. Lowber (v. 2), 1898; accessioned, 1900 (1900 2769). See in-house shelf list for additional accession information.

Early American History Note

This collection contains two volumes of David Rittenhouse's daily diaries. The first volume contains meteorological data for 1792. The second volume is more content rich and covers the period in 1785 during which he traveled west to determine the boundaries of Pennsylvania. These records include observations on the environment, daily expenses, and other travel-related recordings. There are also various sketches, calculations, and other notes in these volumes.

Indexing Terms

Genre(s)

Meteorological Data
Meteorological records.
Scientific Data
Travel Narratives and Journals

Subject(s)

Meteorology -- Observations -- Pennsylvania.
Natural history
Pennsylvania History
Science and technology
Travel

Detailed Inventory

Meteorological observations, volume 1, 1788-1792				Request Item for Reading Room Access Request a Copy of this Item
Access digital object: https://diglib.amphilsoc.org/islandora/object/text:285334
Meteorological observations, volume 2, 1792-1805				Request Item for Reading Room Access Request a Copy of this Item
Access digital object: https://diglib.amphilsoc.org/islandora/object/text:275768