Call Number:

C1029

Repository:

Princeton University Library: Manuscripts Division

Extent:

• 1 box
• 0.2 linear feet

Language:

English

Preferred Citation:

Citations should be as follows: James Carnahan Collection, Box #, Folder #, Special Collections, Princeton University Library.

Date:

1802-1858 (inclusive)

Creator:

Princeton University. Library. Special Collections and Carnahan, James, 1775-1859

Form:

Correspondence -- 19th century and Manuscripts--19th century.

Abstract:

Consists of correspondence, documents, and a fragment of a sermon by James Carnahan, ninth president of the College of New Jersey (now Princeton).

James Carnahan was the ninth president of the College of New Jersey (now Princeton University), from which he graduated in 1800. In 1823 he was elected to the presidency of the college while it was in the middle of a period of decline. There were many faculty resignations, and enrollment had dropped from 120 to 70 students. He was very discouraged by the state of affairs and thought of recommending closing it down. However, with the help of professor John Maclean, he was able to strengthen the faculty, which in turn, strengthened the college's reputation. When Carnahan retired in 1854, there were 250 students enrolled, new chairs were endowed, many scholarships were established, and East and West Colleges and Clio and Whig Halls were erected. After his retirement and until his death, Carnahan served as a trustee of the college and as president of the board of trustees of the Theological Seminary.

The collection consists of correspondence, documents, and a fragment of a sermon by Carnahan. The bulk of the correspondence and documents deals with matters regarding the College of New Jersey (now Princeton University) and fund-raising for it. Included is a circular letter (1836) soliciting funds for the building of Whig Hall, a receipt (1837) for $1000 given by Mrs. Dolley Madison for the benefit of the college library, and a thank you note (1851) for a collection of Pacific Coast shells donated to the college.

Arranged by accession number.