Call Number:

Ms. Codex 1729

Repository:

University of Pennsylvania: Kislak Center for Special Collections, Rare Books and Manuscripts

Extent:

1 volume

Language:

English

Preferred Citation:

Commonplace Book, approximately 1813-1840, Ms. Codex 1729, Kislak Center for Special Collections, Rare Books and Manuscripts, University of Pennsylvania

Date:

approximately 1813 to 1840 (inclusive)

Form:

Songs (musical compositions), Poems, Poetry, Excerpts, Manuscripts, American -- 19th century, Codices (bound manuscripts), and Commonplace books

Abstract:

Commonplace book containing copies and excerpts of eighteenth and nineteenth century poems and songs written between 1813 to 1840.

Bound volume with numbered pages from 4-167 containing copies and excerpts of eighteenth and nineteenth century poems and songs. Possibly written by E. W. Carpenter (Philadelphia Rare Books & Manuscripts Company) between 1813 to 1840. Many of the poems copied into the volume are by English poets, such as, Edward Young, William Cowper, Thomas Campbell, and James Montgomery. Some items are American works. Several poems and songs concern war, heroes, and death with some about love. In addition are some longer essays. One item titled "An oration in favor of ignorance," has the notation "delivered at the commencement in the University of Pennsylvania, July 4, 1781." The many songs, some military, have lyrics and musical notations. There is a poem entitled "The hero" praising George Washington and verses sympathetic to Ireland "The exile of Erin" and France "On the sufferings of the Queen of France." Some curious items appear in the volume, including "Matzel: in memory of a bat" and "Kill no toads!" Pages 34-60 are blank.