Nathaniel Bowditch papers

Mss.Film.1569

Date: n.d. | Size: 2 film_reel(s)
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Abstract

The personal library of Nathaniel Bowditch encompasses works on mathematics, astronomy, and navigation. Among the treasures of the collection are early editions by such scientific luminaries as Galileo, Newton, and LaPlace; numerous treatises on comets and sundials; long runs of scientific periodicals; and, of course, Bowditch's own manuscripts.

Background note

American mathematician Nathaniel Bowditch is famous for his work on ocean navigation. Often credited as the founder of modern maritime navigation, he is best known as the editor of The Practical Navigator (1799); his seminal work, The New American Practical Navigator (1802), is still found on board every commissioned U.S. Naval vessel.

Collection Information

Physical description

Ca. 11,000 volumes on 2 microfilm reels.

Provenance

Location of originals:

Originals in Boston Public Library.

Indexing Terms


Subject(s)

  • Astronomy
  • Comets
  • Mathematics
  • Navigation.
  • Sundials.