Thomas Jefferson Papers

Thomas Jefferson to Thomas Law, 24 February 1817

To Thomas Law

Monticello Feb. 24. 17.

Dear Sir

The enrolment of my name among those of the members of the Columbian Institute is an honor which I recieve with the acknolegements it so justly calls for. I place it to the account of their kindness, and not of any services I can now render them. age and it’s effects forbid me that expectation, and teach me that it is not among the ruins of memory that new materials for science are to be sought. the institution of your society adds another to the views of futurity which fill with delight our contemplations on the future destinies of our beloved country, and of the advancement it is to produce in the character and condition of man. with prayers for it’s prosperity, I tender to the Institute and yourself the assurance of my high respect and consideration.

Th: Jefferson

RC (DSI: Columbian Institute Records); addressed: “Thomas Law esquire Washington Col.”; franked; postmarked (faint) Charlottesville, 2[5?] Feb.; endorsement in an unidentified hand reads, in part, “Th: Jefferson—to Thos Law, relative to his election as an honorary member of the Columbian Institute.” PoC (DLC); endorsed by TJ.

Index Entries

  • Columbian Institute for the Promotion of Arts and Sciences; TJ elected honorary member of search
  • Law, Thomas; and Columbian Institute for the Promotion of Arts and Sciences search
  • Law, Thomas; letters to search
  • Washington, D.C.; and Columbian Institute for the Promotion of Arts and Sciences search