Call Number:

MC.852

Repository:

Haverford College Quaker & Special Collections

Extent:

.5 linear ft. (1 box)

Language:

English

Preferred Citation:

Anthony Benezet letters (HC.MC.852) Quaker and Special Collections, Haverford College, Haverford, PA.

Date:

1750-1936 (inclusive)

Creator:

Benezet, Anthony

Abstract:

A collection of letters of Anthony Benezet (1713-1784), a prominent Friend, philanthropist and teacher. These letters, which are addressed to various persons, reflect cultural and religious aspects, the efforts of Friends to abolish slavery, interest in education, opposition to intolerance and war, missionary work, and observations on Indigenous Americans. Mention is made in the letters of Conrad Weiser, George Whitfield, Samuel Wetherill, and others; and there are frequent references to publications in which Benezet was interested.

Anthony Benezet (1713-1784) was a native of France who became a Quaker at age fourteen. In 1731 he came to Philadelphia and in 1736 married Joyce Marriott. He was a teacher for most of his life and was active in promoting an end to slavery and the slave trade. He wrote and distributed many papers and tracts dealing with slavery, American Indians and education.

(Source for biographical information: Dictionary of Quaker Biography)

Many of the letters relate to Benezet's views on slavery and his work to end the slave trade. Other topics discussed are: the use of taxes to pay for war; the condition of Indigenous Americans; his school and related thoughts on teaching. There are references to various Quaker publications, including his "The plain path to Christian perfection...," "Some observations on the situation... of the Indian natives" and "The Pennsylvania spelling book: or Youth's friendly instructor...," publication of an Elizabeth Webb letter and Samuel Smith's "History of New Jersey." In addition to general news of other Friends, the letters contain religious reflections on friendship, the importance of peace, wealthy Quakers, intolerance and inconsistency among Christians. The bulk of the letters are addressed to George Dillwyn (1738-1820) of Burlington, N.J.; other recipients of letters are Samuel Allinson, Moses Brown, Edward Cathrall, Queen Charlotte of Great Britain, John Fothergill, Samuel Fothergill, Selina Hastings (Countess of Huntingdon), Israel Pemberton, Joseph Phipps, Robert Pleasants, John Smith, Samuel Smith, Jonah Thompson and Caspar Wistar. There are also a few illustrations and receipts.

Manuscripts (includes letters, manuscripts and typed transcripts, photocopies)

All letters (with noted exceptions) are by Benezet and are arranged alphabetically by recipient in folders. A brief notation in included as a guide to topics discussed in the material.